Sings & Symptoms of Dehydration

Dehydration is a serious medical condition. MayoClinic.com says, "Dehydration occurs when you lose more fluid than you take in, and your body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions. If you don't replenish lost fluids, you may suffer serious consequences." Dehydration may be caused by several different things, including severe diarrhea, vomiting or even forgetting to intake fluids in intensely hot weather. Knowing the signs and symptoms of dehydration is essential to avoiding it.

Dry Mouth and Thirst

• Dry mouth and thirst are one of the first signs of mild dehydration. If you feel that you cannot quench your thirst, no matter how much water you drink, you may be dehydrated. Keep taking in as much liquid as possible. Avoid sugary drinks and sodas, which may make you feel even more dehydrated.

Lethargy and Tiredness

• If you feel more tired or lethargic than usual, you may be dehydrated. If you notice that your children are less active than usual, especially in extremely hot weather, then they may be dehydrated. Someone suffering severe dehydration may even end up in a comatose state. To combat mild dehydration increase liquid intake and try to eat foods that are high in water content, such as fruit.

Decreased Urination

• A decrease in urine output is another sign of dehydration. MayoClinic.com defines decreased urine output as "fewer than six wet diapers a day for infants and eight hours or more without urination for older children and teens."

Few Tears When Crying

• The bodies natural ability to produce tears may be inhibited by dehydration. A dehydrated body will not contain enough fluids to produce tears when crying.

Headache or Dizziness

• Headache or dizziness may be a sign of dehydration. If you feel either of these symptoms, it is best to sit or lie down. Increase liquid intake and eat fruits with a lot of water.