Sarah EatonSure, when you’re thirsty, you know you’re dehydrated. But dehydration causes a variety of symptoms, including headache and dizziness. And it’s no surprise that you’d experience a decrease in urine output, as well as urine that is yellow or amber in hue. Additionally, dehydration symptoms might include changes in skin as well as tear production. Even low levels of dehydration causes headaches and lethargy.
In extreme cases, dehydration causes seizures, fever, and sometimes coma. Treatment for dehydration involves replenishing fluid levels in the body. For extreme dehydration symptoms, some patients will require intravenous methods of treatment for dehydration. However, to avoid costly hospital bills, the best treatment for dehydration is prevention. And those who are undergoing treatment for dehydration should avoid consuming caffeine. (1) To learn more about dehydration symptoms and treatment for dehydration, read on.
Dehydration Symptoms can include the following: (2)
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth
- Tired or sleepy
- Decreased urine output
- Urine is low volume and more yellowish than normal
- Headache
- Dry skin
- Dizziness
- Few or no tears
- Lethargy
- Lack of sweating
- Sunken eyes
- Shriveled and dry skin
- Low blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Fever
- Delirium
- Unconsciousness
Here are 5 natural treatments for dehydration:
1. Drink Enough Water Every Day
You may have heard that you should be drinking 8 ounces of water 8 times a day. While that might be a general good rule of thumb, it isn’t a hard-fast rule. (3) The bottom line is you should be paying attention to what your body tells you. If you are thirsty, drink. (4)
However, keep in mind that pregnant women and women who are nursing need more fluids. Furthermore, factors such as age, diet, medical status, activity level and body size can all affect how much water you should be drinking.
Migraines can be debilitating. Plain water may not be enough. If you are urinating every three to four hours, you’re likely drinking enough water. Your urine shouldn’t be dark yellow; however, it doesn’t have to be clear, either. (5)
2. Eat Hydrating Foods
You can get your water in by consuming plenty of water-dense fruits and vegetables. They’re great for you, and it’s a more delicious way to ensure you’re getting plenty of water.
Consider eating the following to help you stay hydrated:
- Coconut water or coconut milk
- Celery
- Watermelon and other melon
- Cucumber
- Kiwi
- Bell peppers
- Citrus fruits
- Carrots
- Pineapple
3. Try Hydrating Alternatives to Plain Water
You may not always want to drink plain water, though it can be particularly refreshing after a workout. However, if you prefer to consume your water with more flavor, you might try some of the following ideas:
- Homemade vegetable juices
- Fruit smoothies
- Vegetable pops made from pureed and frozen fruit
- Herbal teas
- Sparkling water with fruit slices
- Warm water with fresh-squeezed lemon or lime and a little raw honey
- Hot water with fresh steeped herbs
- Coconut kefir
- Kombucha
And while you’re at it, be sure to stay away from beverages that can increase dehydration and electrolyte loss.
Stay away from such drinks as:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine, such as coffee or some teas
- Soda
- Drinks with added sugar
4. Hydrate During and After Exercise
When you exercise, you lose electrolytes because you sweat more. Therefore, be sure to drink a glass of water before a workout, one during, and one immediately after. (6) Stay away from sports drinks as the added sugar will do your body no favors.
5. Prevent Dehydration During lllnesses
If you’re sick or have a gastrointestinal issue, be sure to increase your water intake. Dehydration caused by illnesses can lead to complications such as kidney stones, certain infections, and even heart failure. You might try a drink high in electrolytes if you’re vomiting or have diarrhea. (7)