Dehydration defined is the loss of water and salts that are essential for normal body function, according to the free online medical dictionary. The body is in effect drying up.
Causes for dehydration are:
- Illness
- Strenuous activity
- Hot, dry climate
- Prolonged exposure to sun or high temperatures
- Not drinking enough water
- Overuse of diuretics, alcohol, caffeine or other medications that increase urination
- Prolonged vomiting or diarrhea
The symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration according to the Mayo Clinic are:
- Dry, sticky mouth
- Sleepiness or tiredness
- Thirst
- Decreased urine output
- Few or no tears when crying
- Dry skin
- Headache
- Constipation
- Dizziness or lightheadeness
The symptoms of severe dehydration, which according to the Mayo Clinic is a medical emergency, are:
- Extreme thirst
- Extreme fussiness
- Irritability and confusion
- Very dry mouth, skin and mucous membranes
- Lack of sweating
- Little or no urination
- Sunken eyes
- Shriveled and dry skin that lacks elasticity and doesn't "bounce back" when pinched into a fold
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- Fever
- In the most serious cases, delirium or unconsciousness
To prevent dehydration the Mayo Clinic suggests drinking plenty of fluids and eating fruits and vegetables that are high in water. Because everyone's hydration needs are different, choosemyplate.gov suggests that healthy persons allow their thirst to be their guide as to how much water to drink. They also suggest drinking plenty of water if very active, live or work in hot conditions or are an older adult.
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