by: Dr. Marion Somers
75% of our body mass and about 80% of our brain are made up of water. Dehydration can have a significant effect on our body and our functional abilities. Insufficient water affects the brain and impacts on how we feel and function as the water within us slows its circulation. When the water flows slower, it lowers the blood flow which makes an impact of less oxygen moving to and through our bodies. The brain is similarly affected by this decrease of fluids.
There are many warning signs of dehydration. Severe dehydration may get as serious as unconsciousness, coma or even our own demise. Dehydration usually comes in a variety of stages. This is especially true if we are dealing with summer heat or strenuous or excessive exercise. Infants as well as seniors maybe more susceptible to dehydration. The earliest signs of dehydration, may include, but are not excluded to the attached list below. The following are some of the signs we need to be alert to. The following are in alphabetical order and not necessarily order of importance:
Bad breath
Craving sweets
Dizziness
Dry mouth, lips and eyes
Feeling thirsty and or lightheaded
Fever and chills
Frequent diarrhea
Headaches
Loss of strength and stamina
Muscle cramps
Urination that is infrequent
Urine/ dark colored or strong smelling
Rapid heart beat
Tiredness or constant fatigue
Vomiting
A babies sign of dehydration maybe:
Drowsy
Fewer wet diapers
Less attentive or responsive
Relatively few or no tears when they cry.
Various health conditions may hinder the proper flow of fluids and nutrition. Medical attention maybe required.
Alcohol is a diuretic and maybe an attributing factor to dehydration.
Remedies to dehydration include small sips of water, eating fruits and vegetables that are high in water, sucking on an ice cube, until the symptoms subside or you feel better on all counts. If symptoms persist medical attention maybe needed.
