You’ve probably heard that you’re supposed to drink at least 8 cups of water a day. But if you’re like most people, you might not be great at keeping track. It’s easy to get dehydrated quick, so read on to discover the signs and symptoms so you can stay healthy.
How to Tell If You’re Dehydrated: Learn the Signs and Symptoms
Dehydration Symptoms
#1: Thirst
The first sign of dehydration, conveniently, is thirst. So if you’re feeling thirsty, don’t ignore it. Get up and drink a tall glass of water to ward off further symptoms.
#2: Fatigue
Feeling sleepy or sluggish? You might be dehydrated. Your body and brain need water to operate efficiently, and you’ll find your body trying to conserve energy if you’re not drinking enough.
#3: Headache
Have a headache you just can’t shake? Dehydration actually causes your brain to shrink, which is what’s triggering that headache. Dehydration also reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.
#4: Concentrated Urine
The main ingredient in urine is water. So if you’re not drinking enough, you’ll notice your urine is more yellow in color. The darker the color, the more dehydrated you might be.
#5: Muscle Cramps
Ever had a charlie horse? You might be experiencing dehydration. Dehydration isn’t just about water; it’s also about electrolytes. The combination can cause your muscles to spasm painfully.
How to Rehydrate
If you think you’re suffering from mild dehydration, the most important thing you need to do is rehydrate. Take small drinks of water or electrolyte-containing drinks or even ice chips.
If you’re overheated, remove extra clothing, and get to a temperature-controlled area if possible. Consider taking a luke-warm, but not cold, shower.
Take it slow, and know that your body needs some time to reabsorb water and rehydrate.
The best strategy is to avoid dehydration to begin with, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.