Drinking plenty of water is one of the basic building blocks of health. There’s no doubt that not drinking enough fluids can lead to dehydration. But why is dehydration so important to avoid and what are the key signs of dehydration?
Let’s dive right in!
Why is Dehydration So Serious?
Your body needs water to function. When you aren’t drinking enough, you’re not giving your body what it needs for digestion, energy, cell production, temperature regulation, cognitive function, and many other processes.
As a general rule, you need to drink at least 15 cups of water per day for men or about 11 cups per day for women to stay hydrated. If you work out or are spending a lot of time outside in the sun, you’ll probably need more water to compensate for what your body sweats out.
What are the Signs of Dehydration?
It’s not uncommon to write off the symptoms of dehydration as something else. Let’s face it: a headache or dry skin can come from lots of things, right?
Knowing the signs can help you connect the dots and know when you’re not drinking enough water:
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You’re thirsty (usually one of the first signs your body needs fluids)
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Sticky or dry mouth
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Dry skin
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Headache
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Dark urine
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Infrequent urination
The above are mild symptoms when dehydration is in its early stages. However, symptoms become more serious when dehydration becomes severe, including:
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Sunken eyes
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Very dark urine
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Lack of energy
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Sleepiness
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Dizziness
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Rapid heartbeat and/or rapid breathing
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Irritability
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Fainting
Staying hydrated is an essential part of daily health. You need it for energy, focus, digestion, and to maintain your health in general. Keep track of how much water you’re drinking each day and look for the signs of dehydration. It’s one of the simplest yet most impactful things you can do for your health. So cheers to you with a glass of water!