According to Davis (2017), dehydration refers to the loss of body
fluids, mostly water, which exceeds the amount of water that is taken in
through drinking. Thus, body begins to lose its ability to function normally
and starts to produce related symptoms. If unrecognized and untreated, some
instances of moderate and severe hydration can lead to non-communicable
diseases or even death. Most doctors agreed that dehydration is categorized into 3 stages: mild, moderate, and severe dehydration.
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth
- Tired or sleepy
- Decreased urine output
- Urine is low volume and more yellowish than normal
- Headache
- Dry skin
- Dizziness
- Few or no tears
However, above symptoms may get worsen and indicate severe hydration such as the following symptoms:
- Severely decreased urine output or no urine output. The urine, if any, produced is concentrated and a deep yellow or amber color.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness that does not allow the person to stand or walk normally.
- Blood pressure drops when the person tries to stand after lying down (low blood pressure or orthostatic hypotension)
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Poor skin elasticity (skin slowly sinks back to its normal position when pinched)
- Lethargy, confusion, or coma
- Seizure
- Shock
Reference: Davis, C.P. (2017). Dehydration in Adults. Retrieved from https://www.emedicinehealth.com/dehydration_in_adults/page3_em.htm
