The average human body contains 75% water. It won’t be able to exist without this water. Blood arteries, between cells, and inside of cells all contain water. Our water levels are managed by a sophisticated water management system, and our thirst mechanism alerts us when more fluid intake is necessary. Although we continuously lose water through breathing, sweating, urinating, and defecating throughout the day, we may replenish the water in our bodies by drinking fluids. If dehydration sets in, the body can also transfer water to the places where it is most required.
In this article we will discuss about the signs and symptoms of dehydration:
1. Dry Skin That Doesn’t React to Pressure
See what happens if you pinch the skin on the top of your hand. This is a sign that you’re mildly to considerably dehydrated if it moves back slowly. The skin “tenting” (i.e., appearing to stick together) is an indication of extreme dehydration. If you’re mildly to moderately dehydrated, you should drink more water and other fluids. The standard “go-to” drink is water, but if you’ve just performed a demanding workout, a sports drink or coconut water may be more efficient in replenishing fluids and electrolytes. You might need to see a doctor who can help treat dehydration if you are really dehydrated and your skin tents.
2. Accelerated breathing and heart rate
While exercising, it’s normal to experience fast breathing and an elevated heart rate. However, if you feel these symptoms and they persist after you’ve cooled down or if you haven’t been exercising, it may be an indication that you are severely dehydrated. This is because low electrolyte levels might impair the heart’s capacity to pump blood.
3. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Do not ignore symptoms like these. Rehydrate properly by consuming water slowly and eating water-rich fruits and vegetables. Cucumbers, watermelons, tomatoes, strawberries, apples, and grapes are a few of these. By doing this, you’ll help your body get the nutrients and electrolytes it needs to absorb into your tissues and brain. However, you should visit the emergency department as soon as you can if you feel extremely lightheaded or dizzy so that a doctor can examine you.
4. Fever with chills
Stop what you’re doing right away if this happens while you’re exercising or playing a sport. Your symptoms may get worse as a result of the stress you’re putting on your body and its systems. Increase your fluid intake and cool up at home by taking an ice bath or applying a cold compress to your face. Go to the closest emergency hospital or urgent care facility if your temperature doesn’t go down or rises above 103°. Adults may have a more serious case of dehydration as a result, which necessitates urgent medical care.
5. Unconsciousness
Low blood pressure or disorientation from dehydration can cause unconsciousness. This could be a warning of serious fluid loss if it’s present with other dehydration symptoms. If you or someone you know has dizziness or excessive heat as a result of a high body temperature, they may be at danger of losing consciousness. Being unconscious is a warning sign that your body is dehydrated.
