What are the symptoms of dehydration?
The degree of dehydration is graded according to signs and symptoms that reflect the amount of fluid lost: In the early stages of dehydration, there are no signs or symptoms. Early features are difficult to detect but include dryness of mouth and thirst As dehydration increases, signs and symptoms develop. These include: thirst, restless or irritable behaviour, decreased skin turgor, dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes, sunken fontanelle (in infants), and absence of tears when crying vigorously. Symptoms of early or mild dehydration include: – flushed face – extreme thirst, more than normal or unable to drink – dry, warm skin – cannot pass urine or reduced amounts, dark, yellow – dizziness made worse when you are standing weakness – cramping in the arms and legs – crying with few or no tears – sleepy or irritable – unwell – headaches – dry mouth, dry tongue; with thick saliva. In severe dehydration, these effects become more pronounced and the patient may develop evidence of hypovolaemic
