Dehydration โ Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Dehydration happens when your body loses more fluid than it takes in. Without enough water, your body canโt work properly. This condition can affect anyone, but itโs most risky for young children and older adults.
Severe diarrhea and vomiting often cause dehydration in children. Meanwhile, older adults face higher risks because their bodies naturally contain less water. Even minor illnesses like lung or bladder infections can lead to dehydration in seniors.
Hot weather increases dehydration risk, especially during heavy exercise. Most people can recover from mild to moderate dehydration by drinking more fluids, but severe cases require immediate medical attention.
Risk Factors for Dehydration:
- Young children
- Older adults
- People exercising in hot weather
- Those with certain illnesses
Identifying dehydration at an early stage is crucial in preventing severe complications. For mild cases, increasing fluid intake usually solves the problem.
Causes of Dehydration
Dehydration can be caused by various factors. The most common cause is not drinking enough water.
Common causes:
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Not drinking enough water
- Certain medications
- Illnesses with fever
Symptoms of Dehydration
Dehydration can cause various symptoms. These include thirst, dry mouth, dark yellow urine, and infrequent urination.
You may also experience dizziness, fatigue, and confusion. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to a rapid heartbeat, sunken eyes, and fainting.
Prevention Strategies
You can prevent dehydration by drinking enough fluids, including water, juice, and other hydrating beverages. Additionally, eating water-rich foods and avoiding excessive heat exposure can also help prevent dehydration.
