Knowing the signs of dehydration is vital in Lakeland, FL, in all seasons, especially during the cooler months when you’re less likely to think you can get dehydrated. You might carry water everywhere, but if you’re not sipping on it frequently, it does your body no good. Each person’s symptoms will vary. Knowing all the symptoms helps you identify the problem and take action before it develops into a life-threatening issue.
If you feel exhausted, before getting coffee, drink some water.
Dehydration can leave you wiped out and ready to lay down. A cup of coffee can help because it provides the liquid your body needs. A bottle or glass of water is better. It contains no caffeine to make you jittery and doesn’t act as a diuretic, leading to future dehydration. When you drink water, if dehydration is the problem, you’ll feel a lift almost immediately. Dehydration can cause a headache, too. The brain has a high percentage of fluid. Fluid protects both the brain and central nervous system. Take a glass of water first and see if that helps before taking a pain reliever.
One simple test is the color of your urine.
The color of urine should be a light straw yellow. If it’s dark yellow to brown, it’s a sign you’re dehydrated. Clear urine is a sign you’ve overhydrated. No matter how simple the test is, you may not have enough urine to check if you’re dehydrated. It is one sign in babies and toddlers that mothers can identify easily. If there’s little moisture on the diaper and fewer changes, dehydration may be a problem.
Dehydration affects your blood pressure.
When you’re dehydrated, your blood pressure can increase or drop. The change in blood pressure is the indicator. Some people experience a sudden drop in blood pressure due to low blood volume. Others show an increase in blood pressure. That occurs because the body produces more vasopressin. Vasopressin constricts blood vessels to ensure an adequate flow. The thicker blood due to lack of fluid and constricted vessels causes a rise in blood pressure. It’s a rebound reaction to help prevent fainting. Look for signs of abnormally low or abnormally high blood pressure.
- Dry cracked or chapped lips can indicate dehydration. The skin turgor test is another simple way to check. Take a pinch of skin on the forearm or abdomen and release it. If it takes a while to return to normal, it’s dehydration.
- Your sleep-wake cycle may be affected by dehydration. It can shorten the cycle or cause you to awaken mid-cycle with a feeling of doom. If you wake up tired, drink more water earlier in the evening.
- If your joints ache, they may be telling you to drink something. The fluid in the joints protects them and prevents bones from rubbing together, which causes joints to ache. It can lead to future damage.
- If you suddenly lash out or feel defeated, it could be dehydration. Dehydration affects your thinking in many ways. It causes focus, concentration, and diminished memory. Stay alert by sipping on water throughout the day.
For more information, contact us today at Habitat Health & Fitness