10 Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration Everybody Should Know

Water and fluids make up about an average of 60% in humans’ bodies. It is highly essential and is a vital nutrient to the life in each of our cells that if we don’t get enough of it, our bodies may not function properly.

Here are 10 Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration Everybody Should Know:

1. Thirst

Thirst is the first and one of the most common signs of dehydration. Our bodies sense if there is fluid imbalance and it signals us when we don’t have enough fluid in our bodies.

10 Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration Everybody Should Know
Dehydration can decrease our blood pressure.

2. Low Blood Pressure

Have you ever experienced getting dizzy when you suddenly stand up from lying down? This may be because of a decrease in the blood pressure which can be caused by dehydration. When we are dehydrated, our blood volume decreases which also lowers the pressure in our arteries. Furthermore, when we get dehydrated, it can lead to severe low blood pressure which needs medical attention. Some symptoms of low blood pressure are nausea, blurred vision and fainting.

3. Bad Breath

Bad breath is another sign of dehydration. Our saliva has antibacterial properties and when we are dehydrated, our mouth cannot produce enough saliva which results to bacteria overgrowth. Make sure you are always hydrated so your breath always smells fresh.

4. Tiredness

There may be many different reasons why we feel tired and one of them is dehydration.

Several studies have shown that dehydration can cause tiredness. When our bodies lose about 1-3% fluid of our body weight, it can cause tiredness and sleepiness which hinders us to do our normal daily activities. If you feel tired during the day, it can be a sign of dehydration.

5. Headaches

Our brains are cushioned by a fluid sack which keeps it from bumping against our skulls. When we are severely dehydrated, that fluid sack can get depleted which causes the brain to get pushed to our skull causing headaches.

6. Urine irregularities

Our urine can indicate how hydrated or dehydrated our bodies are. The amount and color of our urine indicates the level of our dehydration. When we are not hydrated enough, our kidneys conserve water by concentrating it to retain water which is very important to our body’s functions. Dark yellow and low urine output are signs that we are dehydrated.

7. Dry mouth, lips, eyes and skin

When we are dehydrated, our blood volume decreases which makes our mouth, lips, eyes and skin dry. Especially when we are in extreme weathers, we can get easily dehydrated which can be seen in our mouth, lips, eyes and skin. Drink more fluids when you observe these symptoms.

10 Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration Everybody Should Know
Drink enough water to prevent dehydration.

Please also read: Top Reasons Why You Should Drink Lots of Water

8. Irritability

Studies have shown that dehydration can cause irritability. This is because our brain function is compromised when we don’t have enough fluids in our body. Moreover, dehydration may cause moodiness, anxiety and decreased concentration. However, several studies have also proven that drinking enough water can improve brain function, which has positive effects for our mental health.

9. Food cravings

Craving for some unhealthy food? You may just be dehydrated. When we are dehydrated some of our organs have difficulty releasing energy to our body, thus, making us crave for food. So, if you are craving for some food, try drinking water first as you might just be dehydrated.

10. Fever

Extreme dehydration can cause fever and chills. This is because our bodies cannot regulate our temperature. When our fever reaches 101°F, it best to seek medical help as it can become fatal.

Sources: Authority Nutrition, Everyday Health

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