Approximately 75% of adults in America are, reportedly, chronically dehydrated. Chronic dehydration occurs when a person consistently loses more water than they are taking in over a long period of time. Things like frequent headaches or difficulty concentrating could be warning signs of dehydration.
One of the easiest ways to find out if you’re drinking enough water is to look at the color of your urine after using the bathroom. If you’re well-hydrated, it will be clear or pale yellow. A darker shade of yellow means your body needs more water. People who drink enough water will typically have softer bowel movements as well.
If you’ve been fatigued or dizzy lately, you might be asking yourself, “Am I drinking enough water?” Keep reading to find out if you’re staying well-hydrated in the summer heat.
Do I drink enough water?
Before you can answer the question, “Do I drink enough water,” you need to assess how you’re feeling. If you’re feeling sluggish or worse, you may be dehydrated. Let’s look at different symptoms of dehydration and find out how you can start feeling better, fast.
Signs of mild to moderate dehydration include:
- Thirst sensation
- Dry or sticky mouth
- Decreased urine output
- Dark yellow urine
- Dry, cool skin
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
Mild to moderate dehydration is most often caused by excessive sweating, fever, diarrhea, vomiting or lack of fluids. This can often be corrected by gradually increasing your intake of water or another healthy drink that’s high in electrolytes.
Signs of severe dehydration include:
- Absence of urine
- Very dry skin
- Dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- Sunken eyes
- Sleepiness or lack of energy
- Confusion or irritability
- Fainting
If you’re experiencing one or more symptoms of severe dehydration and are unable to stay hydrated on your own, visit Amory Urgent Care for IV fluid hydration. These fluids often contain potassium, glucose and sodium, which are electrolytes your body needs to function properly. One of our experienced medical professionals will work with you to determine exactly what you need to treat your condition.
How long does it take to rehydrate your body?
The time it takes your body to rehydrate with a slow and steady intake of water or other fluids depends on how dehydrated you are. That being said, it can take up to 36 hours for your body to fully recover from dehydration. However, you should start feeling better within a few hours. In addition to water, you can also help your body rehydrate with a combination of coffee, tea, milk, fruits and vegetables.
IV fluid hydration treatment, on the other hand, takes anywhere from 30-60 minutes and is delivered directly to your bloodstream through intravenous injection. This optimizes the hydration process, so you can start feeling better fast. Safe, effective, life-saving dehydration treatment is available at Amory Urgent Care. Visit us for a walk-in appointment 7 days a week from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.