Dehydration

Dehydration Q & A

What is dehydration?

Because of how vital water is to your bodily functions such as regulating your body temperature for protecting and cushioning your vital organs, it can have disastrous effects when you lose more fluid than you consume.

Even if you aren’t feeling thirsty, you could still be dehydrated. In the early stages of dehydration, there tend to be no noticeable symptoms. As your body becomes more dehydrated, symptoms begin to arise.

The signs of mild dehydration include:

• Weakness
• Flushed face
• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Dry tongue
• Irritable or sleepy
• Dizziness

The symptoms of severe dehydration include:

• Low blood pressure
• Bloated stomach
• Sunken, dry eyes
• Skin looks wrinkled
• Fast and weak pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Muscle contractions

If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs for dehydration, call the doctors at NAG Clinics or schedule your appointment online to avoid other potential health issues.

What are the causes of dehydration?

Dehydration can occur because you don’t drink enough water, either because you’re busy, not thirsty, or any other number of simple reasons. Diarrhea and vomiting can also cause you to lose water and electrolytes in a short amount of time. Sweating can also dehydrate you, so if you work or exercise outdoors, be mindful of drinking plenty of water.

If you begin to feel dehydrated, take in fluids through sipping small amounts of water, eating popsicles made from sports drinks or juices, and drinking beverages that contain high levels of electrolytes.

How can I avoid dehydration?

It’s natural for your body to lose water through urination and sweating, yet there are several simple steps you can take to limit or prevent dehydration from happening. The doctors at NAG Clinics recommend you drink plenty of water and eat food with high amounts of water, like vegetables and fruit. Try to limit your intake of caffeinated beverages and alcohol, as they increase water loss.

If you have questions regarding dehydration and how to prevent it, call NAG Clinics today or schedule your appointment online.