Water dehydration is a very serious concern. Water dehydration occurs when the body does not take in enough water to replace the amount that it loses on a daily basis (through perspiration and excretion). Once this happens, you can begin to experience some serious (and potentially) life threatening dehydration symptoms. Prevent dehydration by knowing dehydration signs to look for.
What are the dehydration signs?
(According to mayoclinic.com)
Mild to moderate cases of dehydration are likely to cause:
- Sticky mouth, dry mouth
- Thirst
- Dry skin
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Constipation
- Tiredness
For extreme (or severe) dehydration, you can experience:
- Lack of sweating
- Extreme thirst
- Rapid breathing, heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Very dry skin, mouth and mucus membranes
- Little to no urination
- Fever
- No tears when crying
- Extreme sleepiness and fussiness in infants, children; irritability and confusion in adults
- Delirium or unconsciousness (in more serious cases)
How much water to drink a day?
Drink. More. Water. The recommended amount of water to drink is eight 8 oz. glasses a day (the 8 by 8 rule). However, this amount can vary depending on various circumstances such as weight, age, how active you are and any medication you may be on. It is best to know about your own body’s needs for fluids and to remember that you need to replace the amount of water that you lose during the day (through perspiration, urine, breathing, bowel movements). Drinking too much water can lead to water intoxication. <—Tweet this!
How can I drink more water?
Carrying water with you may be the most convenient option as that gives you the ability of drinking water wherever you are. Vapur offers a line of reusable water bottles (read our Vapur Water Bottles Review) that are perfect for on-the-go use and can be stored practically anywhere. Filtered water pitchers (such as the Brita Bella Water Pitcher) are also a good choice as it gives you clean water whenever you are at home. In addition, set up daily reminders (leave a note on the refrigerator) and opt for water instead of soft drinks throughout the day.
Conclusion
Dehydration prevention is vital especially during periods of intense heat. Be more conscious to drink more water no matter what time of year it is. As a general rule, don’t wait to drink water when you get thirsty. Do it beforehand. Do you have any tips on how to drink more water during the day?
Gamini Ratnayake says
Good comments to follow
Betty says
I line up half cups of water (4 oz) along the countertop in the morning and as I pass by I drink one. It goes down easily and quickly. I have a Soda Stream that also makes drinking water/selzter something I look forward to.
retmsg says
I have a twenty oz insulated water bottle. I put a large key ring on the finger holder along with three little clips. As I finish the bottle, I move one clip from the finger holder to the key ring. when three are three clips on the key ring, I have finished 60 oz of water for the day.