Dehydration can affect anyone, but for some people, it poses a significant risk. In severe cases, dehydration can even lead to kidney failure. Today, let’s explore the symptoms of dehydration, the causes, and the preventive measures to take, especially for those at higher risk.
What is Dehydration?
Our bodies are made up of 60% water:
- The brain and muscles are about 75% water.
- The liver is 69% water, kidneys are 74%, and blood is 94% water.
Dehydration occurs when the amount of water we take in is less than what our body needs, or when we lose more fluids than we consume. Without sufficient hydration, our bodies struggle to function normally.
Symptoms of Dehydration
Thirst:
The most common sign of dehydration is thirst. However, the symptoms can vary based on age.
- For Infants:
- Dry mouth and tongue.
- No tears when crying.
- Diapers not wet for more than 3 hours.
- Sunken eyes and cheeks.
- Increased irritability or fussiness.
- For Adults:
- Dry, cracked skin.
- Reduced frequency of urination with dark yellow or brown urine.
- Fatigue due to slowed enzyme activity.
- Headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
Causes of Dehydration
- Not Drinking Enough Water:
Failing to drink sufficient water, especially during hot weather, can lead to dehydration. While traveling, finding clean drinking water can also be challenging. - Diarrhea and Vomiting:
Conditions like gastroenteritis cause dehydration by rapidly losing water and electrolytes. This is especially dangerous for infants. - Infection:
When you’re sick, your body needs more water. However, you may not feel like drinking due to fatigue or a sore throat, making dehydration worse. - Fever:
High temperatures due to infections can worsen dehydration. - Burns:
Burns cause fluid loss from damaged blood vessels and surrounding tissues. - Frequent Urination:
Conditions like diabetes, blood pressure medications, and diuretics increase urination, leading to fluid loss. - Excessive Sweating:
Sweating heavily due to hot weather or exercise, without replacing lost fluids, causes dehydration.
Who is at Risk?
While anyone can experience dehydration, certain groups are at greater risk:
- Infants and Children:
Due to their smaller body size and higher surface area-to-volume ratio, children lose fluids faster during fever or burns. Infants can’t express thirst and often can’t drink on their own. - Elderly People:
Aging leads to a natural decrease in body water. Older adults may not feel thirsty, making them more susceptible to dehydration, especially when dealing with chronic conditions or medications. - People with Chronic Conditions:
- Diabetes:
Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of dehydration as excess glucose in the blood leads to more urination. - Chronic Kidney Disease:
Dehydration worsens kidney function and accelerates kidney damage.
- Diabetes:
Complications of Dehydration
If dehydration is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications:
- Kidney and Urinary Tract Problems:
Long-term dehydration can cause urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and even kidney failure. In individuals with existing kidney conditions, dehydration can worsen kidney health. - Hypovolemic Shock:
This life-threatening condition occurs when dehydration leads to a dangerous drop in blood pressure, preventing organs from getting enough oxygen. - Hyponatremia (Low Sodium Levels):
Dehydration can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to low sodium levels, which can result in seizures or loss of consciousness. - Heat Injury:
From heat cramps to heatstroke, dehydration amplifies the effects of heat, leading to severe overheating.
Treatment for Dehydration
The first step in treating dehydration is to replenish fluids. Mild dehydration can often be resolved by drinking water, but severe cases require immediate medical intervention, typically through intravenous (IV) fluids.
Preventing Dehydration
- Stay Hydrated:
Drink water regularly, especially in the morning and throughout the day. Carry a water bottle when going out. - For Infants and Children:
Don’t wait for signs of dehydration—offer fluids regularly to young children, especially during hot weather or when they are sick. - For the Elderly:
Older adults may not feel thirsty. Ensure they drink enough fluids, especially when ill or taking medications that increase fluid loss. - Before Exercising:
Replenish fluids before vigorous physical activity, and keep hydrating during and after exercise.
How to Check if You’re Hydrated
- If your urine is light yellow or clear, you’re well-hydrated. Dark, concentrated urine is a sign you need more fluids.
Conclusion
In hot and humid weather, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Make sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and its serious complications.