Can Dehydration Make You Sick?
Dehydration occurs when the body does not have enough fluids to function properly. Common signs of dehydration include feeling thirsty, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and headache. When left untreated, dehydration can lead to serious health problems.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of dehydration include feeling thirsty, having a dry mouth, feeling weak, and having dark-colored urine. Other signs of dehydration include fatigue, dizziness, confusion, rapid heart rate, and decreased urination. If dehydration is excessive, it can lead to other serious health problems, such as heat stroke, seizures, and coma.
Causes
Dehydration can be caused by not drinking enough fluids, sweating too much, vomiting, or diarrhea. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as diuretics, or by certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.
Treatment
The treatment for dehydration depends on the severity of the dehydration. Mild dehydration can usually be treated by drinking fluids and, if necessary, electrolytes. Severe dehydration will require medical attention and may require intravenous fluids.
Prevention
The best way to prevent dehydration is to make sure to drink enough fluids each day. It’s also important to stay cool, especially in hot weather, and to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after physical activity.