5 Key Signs Of Dehydration To Watch Out For

Dehydration is a common condition that occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, disrupting the delicate balance of electrolytes and water. This can happen through excessive sweating, diarrhoea, vomiting or inadequate fluid or water intake. If left unchecked, dehydration can lead to serious complications, including heat stroke, kidney damage and even organ failure. Proper hydration is crucial to maintain bodily functions, regulate body temperature and transport nutrients.

Neglecting dehydration can be detrimental, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, children and individuals with underlying medical conditions. Let's look at some major signs of dehydration that everybody must be aware of.

Signs Of Dehydration

Dry Skin

When skin loses moisture, it becomes tight, flaky and irritated. Dehydration disrupts skin's natural barrier function, exacerbating conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Drinking ample water and maintaining a healthy hydration routine helps to restore skin's radiant glow.

Dark Urine or Less Urination

Dehydration's alarming signs include dark urine and decreased urination. When fluids diminish from the body, kidneys produce less urine and waste concentration increases while darkening urine colour. Less urination signals severe dehydration. Monitoring urine output and colour helps to identify dehydration.

Fatigue And Dizziness

When there is less amount of water or fluids left in the body, blood pressure and oxygen delivery to cells decline, causing exhaustion, lethargy and disorientation. Even mild dehydration can impair focus, memory and physical performance while its extreme condition can lead to dizziness.

Proper hydration is necessary for all bodily functions (Image Credits: Canva)

Headache

Headaches are a common symptom of dehydration caused by the brain's temporary contraction due to a lack of fluids. Dehydration triggers pain pathways, leading to dull, throbbing or piercing headaches. Moreover, mild dehydration can spark migraines or tension headaches.

Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps are yet another distressing sign which occurs when electrolyte imbalances disrupt nerve and muscle function. Dehydration-induced cramping typically affects legs, arms and abdominal muscles while causing sharp and stabbing pain. Low sodium, potassium and magnesium levels exacerbate cramping.

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