Symptoms

As the condition progresses to moderate dehydration, symptoms include:

• dry mouth
• lethargy
• weakness in muscles
• headache
• dizziness

Severe dehydration (loss of 10-15 percent of the body’s water) may be characterized by extreme versions of the symptoms above as well as:

• lack of sweating
• sunken eyes
• shriveled and dry skin
• low blood pressure
• increased heart rate
• fever
• delirium
• unconsciousness

Diagnosis

A doctor will use both physical and mental exams to diagnose dehydration. A patient presenting symptoms such as disorientation, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, fever, lack of sweat, and inelastic skin will usually be considered dehydrated.

Blood tests are often employed to test kidney functions and check sodium, potassium, and other electrolyte levels. Electrolytes are chemicals that regulate hydration in the body and are crucial for nerve and muscle functions. A urine analysis will provide very useful information to help diagnose dehydration. In a dehydrated person, urine will be darker in color and more concentrated – containing a certain level of compounds called ketones.

Causes

Diarrhea – This is the most common cause of dehydration-related deaths. The large intestine usually absorbs water from food matter, but diarrhea prevents this from happening. The body excretes too much water, leading to dehydration.

Vomiting – This leads to a loss of fluids and makes it difficult to replace water by drinking it.

Sweating – The body’s cooling mechanism releases a significant amount of water. Hot and humid weather alongside vigorous physical activity can further increase fluid loss from sweating. Similarly, a fever can cause an increase in sweating and may dehydrate the patient, especially if there is also diarrhea and vomiting.

Diabetes – High blood sugar levels cause increased urination and fluid loss. 

Frequent urination – This is usually caused by uncontrolled diabetes, but also can be due to alcohol and medications such as diuretics, antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antipsychotics.

Burns – Blood vessels can become damaged, causing fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues.

Prevention

Prevention is really the most important treatment for dehydration. Consuming plenty of fluids and foods that have high water content (such as fruits and vegetables) should be enough for most people to prevent dehydration.

People should be cautious about doing activities during extreme heat or the hottest part of the day, and anyone who is exercising should make replenishing fluids a priority.

Since the elderly and very young are most at risk of being dehydrated, special attention should be given to them to make sure they are receiving enough fluids.

Dehydration must be treated by replenishing the fluid level in the body. This can be done by consuming clear fluids such as water, clear broths, frozen water or sports drinks (such as Gatorade). Some dehydration patients, however, will require intravenous fluids in order to rehydrate. People who are dehydrated should avoid drinks containing caffeine such as coffee, tea, and sodas.

Underlying conditions that could cause dehydration should also be treated with the appropriate medication. This may include medications available to purchase over-the-counter or online. Some of these medications include anti-diarrhea medicines, anti-emetics (stops vomiting), and anti-fever medicines.

It is recommended for women to drink 92 fluid ounces (11.5 cups) per day and for men, 124 fluid ounces (15.5 cups) per day. Individuals on the go, athletes, and people exposed to high temperatures should increase their water intake to avoid dehydration.

When too much water is lost from the body, its organs, cells, and tissues fail to function as they should, which can lead to dangerous complications. If dehydration isn’t corrected immediately, it could cause shock