Dehydration happens when your body loses more fluid than it takes in. It can occur when you do not drink enough water, but also when you lose fluids through sweating, vomiting, diarrhoea or fever. Hot weather and strenuous physical activity can also increase your risk.
Knowing the symptoms of dehydration can help you replace lost fluids before the problem becomes more serious.
Common Dehydration Symptoms to Watch For
One of the most noticeable signs is increased thirst, although thirst may not always appear early, particularly in older adults. Other common dehydration symptoms include a dry mouth, dry lips, tiredness, headache, dizziness or feeling light-headed.
Your urine can also provide a useful clue. Dark yellow urine and urinating less often than usual can indicate that your body needs more fluids. However, urine colour can be affected by some medicines, supplements and foods, so it should not be considered the only sign of dehydration.
Children and older adults may need closer attention because they are more vulnerable to dehydration. In babies and young children, signs can include fewer wet nappies, a dry mouth, few or no tears when crying, unusual sleepiness or irritability and sunken eyes.
If dehydration is mild, drinking fluids regularly can help replace what has been lost. When vomiting or diarrhoea causes significant fluid loss, an oral rehydration solution can help replace fluids and important salts and minerals.
However, severe dehydration needs urgent medical attention. Confusion, fainting, very little or no urine, rapid breathing, a fast heartbeat or difficulty keeping fluids down are warning signs that should not be ignored.
Whether you’re dealing with hot weather, exercise, fever, vomiting or diarrhoea, don’t wait until you feel completely drained before paying attention to your fluid intake. If you are mildly dehydrated, replacing lost fluids can help. For practical ways to build better hydration habits into your day, read our guide on How to Stay Hydrated: Simple Daily Tips for Better Health
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