Most people don’t think about dehydration until they’re thirsty.
But by the time you feel thirsty, your body is already low on fluids. Knowing the early, less obvious signs of dehydration can help you stay ahead of it.
Watch for these common signs:
- Unusual fatigue or difficulty concentrating
- Headaches that come on without a clear cause
- Dry mouth or bad breath
- Muscle cramps, especially in the legs
- Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing
- Dark yellow urine or fewer bathroom trips than usual
Older adults are at higher risk of dehydration since the body's sense of thirst naturally diminishes with age. Older adults and their caregivers should make a habit of drinking water throughout the day instead of waiting until thirst develops, since dehydration may already be significant by that point. Small, frequent sips can help, and signs such as confusion, dizziness or unusual fatigue warrant medical attention.
General guidelines suggest drinking about eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, but your needs may vary based on activity level, climate, age and overall health. Foods with high water content—like fruits, vegetables and soups—also count toward your daily intake.
If symptoms aren’t improving with fluids, don’t ignore them. Contact your primary care provider for prompt evaluation. Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic primary care offers same-day appointments so you can get answers without a long wait. For severe signs like confusion, fainting or a rapid heartbeat, go to the emergency room right away.