Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than you take in, leaving you feeling thirsty, fatigued, and potentially putting your health at risk.

Mild dehydration can be treated by drinking more fluids, but severe dehydration can lead to serious complications such as heatstroke, swelling of the brain, and seizures. Recognizing dehydration symptoms is key in preventing these complications and protecting your well-being. Here are ten dehydration symptoms you need to know.

1. Thirst

Thirst is perhaps the most obvious sign of dehydration. When your body is lacking fluid, your brain signals you to drink more water.

If you’re thirsty, it’s important to start sipping water or other hydrating fluids to avoid worsening dehydration symptoms.

2. Headache

Dehydration can cause headaches due to a decrease in blood volume and nutrient supply to the brain. If you’re experiencing a headache, try drinking water and see if it subsides. If it persists, you may need to seek medical attention.

3. Fatigue

Dehydration can cause fatigue and weakness, as a lack of fluids leads to less oxygen being carried to your muscles and organs. If you’re feeling tired, try drinking water or other hydrating beverages.

4. Dizziness

Dehydration can cause dizziness or lightheadedness due to a decrease in blood pressure and oxygen supply to the brain.

If you’re experiencing dizziness, try sitting down and drinking water or another hydrating fluid, and avoid standing up too quickly.

5. Dry mouth and throat

Dehydration can cause dry mouth and throat, as your body produces less saliva when it’s lacking fluids. Drinking water or other hydrating fluids can help moisten your mouth and throat.

6. Muscle cramps

Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps, as a lack of fluids can cause imbalances in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. If you’re experiencing muscle cramps, try drinking fluids and stretching.

7. Dark urine

Dehydration can cause your urine to become darker and more concentrated. If you notice that your urine is dark, it’s a sign that you need to drink more fluids.

8. Dry skin

Dehydration can cause dry skin and a lack of elasticity, as your skin relies on fluids to stay healthy and supple. If you’re experiencing dry skin, try drinking water and using moisturizer.

9. Rapid heartbeat

Dehydration can cause your heart to beat faster, as your body tries to compensate for the lack of fluids and maintain blood pressure. If you notice that your heart is beating faster than usual, try drinking fluids and resting.

10. Confusion

In severe cases, dehydration can cause confusion or disorientation due to decreased blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. If you’re experiencing confusion or other severe dehydration symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.