Dehydration can occur when the body loses too much fluid.
Symptoms of mild dehydration include:
- Increased thirst.
- Dry mouth and
sticky saliva.
- Reduced urine output with dark yellow urine.
Symptoms of moderate dehydration
include:
- Extreme thirst.
- Dry appearance
inside the mouth, and the eyes don't tear.
- Decreased urination, or
half the number of urinations in 24 hours (usually 3 or fewer urinations).
Urine is dark amber or brown.
- Lightheadedness that is relieved by
lying down.
- Irritability or restlessness.
- Arms or legs
that feel cool to the touch.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Muscle
cramps.
Symptoms of severe dehydration (even if only
one of them is present) include:
- Altered behavior, such as severe anxiety,
confusion, or not being able to stay awake.
- Faintness that is not
relieved by lying down, or lightheadedness that continues after standing for 2
minutes.
- Inability to stand or walk.
- Rapid
breathing.
- Weak, rapid pulse.
- Cold, clammy skin or hot,
dry skin.
- Little or no urination for 12 hours or
longer.
- Loss of consciousness.
By the time a person becomes severely dehydrated, there is no
longer enough fluid in the body to get blood to the vital organs. Severe
dehydration is a medical emergency and requires emergency treatment.
Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.
Mild to moderate dehydration is treated at home by drinking more
fluids. Treatment for moderate to severe dehydration may include IV fluids and
a stay in the hospital.
Dehydration is very dangerous for babies, small children, and older
adults. It is most dangerous for newborns. Watch closely for early symptoms
anytime there is an illness that causes a high fever, vomiting, or
diarrhea.
