When you hear the term dehydration you may immediately think of a person not getting enough water. Although this is a leading cause of dehydration, it is not the only cause. Essentially dehydration is when your body loses more fluid than it is taking in. Water plays a major role in our bodies since we are made primarily of water. Some cases of dehydration can range from mild to moderate while others can be severe and require medical attention from a Calabasas urgent care. 

Causes of Dehydration

Each day we will lose water through sweating, using the bathroom, tears, saliva, and even while breathing. While we are losing water, our body is also replenishing the water lost through the foods and liquids we consume. Dehydration occurs when the food and beverages we consume do not offer enough water. Other causes of dehydration are:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Excessive sweating
• Peeing more than usual

Our bodies will ask for more water, but if you ignore your body this can lead to dehydration and may require medical attention from a Calabasas urgent care. 

Symptoms of Dehydration

There are some key warning signs to look for in your body that can mean you are dehydrated. Some of the most common symptoms of dehydration are:

• Dry skin
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Dark urine
• Urinating less often
• Thirst
• Dry mouth
• Headache 
• Muscle cramps

Some of these are mild signs while some are more severe and will require a visit to a Calabasas urgent care for treatment. 

Who Can Get Dehydrated?

Anyone can become dehydrated including babies, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, active adults, and young children. It is important to ensure that those around you who are more vulnerable are getting the water intake they need. 

Staying Hydrated

You should try to stay as hydrated as possible. Doing so will benefit your body by helping you to keep cool, help control your weight, and allow your muscles and joints to work efficiently. 

Some tips for staying hydrated are:

• Add strawberries, cucumbers, orange, or lemon to your water
• Get a reusable water bottle to track your water intake
• Choose healthy snacks like fresh fruits
• If you exercise you need to have more water intake

If you find that you are not getting enough water, you will need to make some lifestyle changes and cut out some foods. Replacing some foods with more sustainable options can increase your water intake and keep you from dehydrating. 

UrgentMED is Here to Help With Your Health Needs

If you are suffering from dehydration or suspect you are, it is important to go to a Calabasas urgent care to be evaluated. Visit our website to find the UrgentMED location nearest you. We have various walk-in clinics throughout Southern California.