Dehydration occurs when you don’t have enough water in your body to carry out its normal functions. It can happen any time of the year but is most common during the summer months when people are outside doing activities in the hot sun. It can be especially dangerous for young children and older adults so it’s important to recognize the symptoms and to know when to seek medical treatment.
10 Symptoms of Dehydration
- Extreme thirst
- Urinating less than usual
- Headache
- Dark-colored urine
- Sluggishness and fatigue
- Bad breath
- Dry mouth
- Sugar cravings
- Dizziness, weakness, light-headedness
- Confusion
If you, or someone else, are experiencing early indicators of dehydration, such as thirst and headache, respond right away by drinking water. If symptoms include confusion, fainting, and rapid heartbeat, seek medical help right away. Severe dehydration needs immediate medical treatment as it can lead to life-threatening illnesses like heatstroke.
What Are the Treatments for Dehydration?
Dehydration is treated by replenishing the fluid level in the body. For mild cases, this can be done by drinking water, sports drinks, clear broths and ice pops. Drinks containing caffeine such as coffee, tea and sodas should be avoided.
More severe cases of dehydration may require treatment with intravenous (IV) fluids. The medical team at MedOne Urgent Care in St. Augustine has the training and experience to administer IV treatments for dehydration and other conditions.
How Do I Prevent Dehydration?
The key to preventing dehydration is making sure that you consume enough fluids and foods that have high water content. The amount of water you need varies according to several factors including weight, age, level of activity and the climate in which you live, but the standard advice is eight glasses per day. Contact a medical professional at MedOne St. Augustine to determine the amount of water that is right for you each day. And remember, if you are thirsty, you are already starting to experience dehydration.
MedOne Urgent Care is Here When You Need Us
Stop on by, no appointment necessary, and our licensed medical professionals will provide you with the highest quality care for dehydration or other summer injuries and illness.
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