What is dehydration? What are the symptoms of this condition?

Dehydration is defined as the condition that occurs when you lose more fluids than you take in, such as urine or sweat. Although everyone is at risk for this condition, babies and young children, the elderly and those with illnesses are most susceptible.

Dehydration can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, and this is based on how much bodily fluid is lost or not replenished. And while we usually ignore small cases, which are relatively harmless, losing large amounts of water may result in sickness and discomfort. If untreated, dehydration can lead to delirium, unconsciousness, and even death. Among the other possible symptoms of dehydration are:

•Dry or sticky mouth and tongue with thick saliva
•Extreme thirst or being unable to drink
•Urinary difficulties – including low or no urine output, as well as dark yellow, concentrated urine
•Eye/vision difficulties – including reduced/no tear production, sunken eyes and visual distortions
•Feeling lethargic or weakness
•Headaches (similar to those like a hangover)
•Hypotension (decreased blood pressure)
•Dizziness or fainting when standing up
•Restless or irritable behavior
•Dry, warm skin (the skin may lose firmness and appear wrinkled)
•Low blood pressure and a fast, weak pulse
•Rapid and deep breathing
•Severe muscle contractions (usually in the arms, legs, stomach, and back)
•Vomiting
•Diarrhea