Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in, and it can happen for many different reasons. The symptoms of dehydration can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but some common symptoms include:
- Thirst
- Dry mouth, lips, and tongue
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Dry, cool skin
- Infrequent urination
- Confusion
- Irritability
In infants and young children, signs of dehydration can include dry mouth and tongue, no tears when crying, no wet diapers for three hours, sunken eyes, cheeks, and soft spot on the top of the skull. If dehydration is suspected, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms are severe. Severe dehydration can lead to serious complications, including weakness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, sunken eyes, sleepiness, lack of energy, fainting, and in extreme cases, death.