Dehydration

Dehydration

Dehydration takes place when individuals lose more fluid than he or she consumes and their body cannot function because it does not have enough water and other fluids. Dehydration can cause various health problems and serious consequences, if the lost fluids are not replenished immediately. Everyone can become dehydrated; however the greater risk affects individuals with chronic illnesses, older adults, and younger children, drinking adequate amounts of water can be prevent it (Mayo Clinic, 2009). The human body needs water to survive and individuals should consume at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day (Smith 1995).
Symptoms of Dehydration
There are several symptoms of dehydration, which may vary depending on the situation or individual’s age. Symptoms of dehydration include allergies, asthma, high blood pressure, joint inflammation, angina, back problems, mental fogginess, depression, and multiple sclerosis (Robinson, 2009). Dehydration can also cause intense diarrhea, vomiting, fever and excessive sweating (Mayo Clinic, 2009). Most of these symptoms can occur when the intake of water is insufficient during hot weather or exercising.
Dry mouth, muscle weakness, tiredness, dizziness, sleepiness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, thirst, headache, decrease urine output and few to no tears when crying are caused by mild to moderate dehydration (Mayo Clinic, 2009).   Severe dehydration requires can cause extremely dry mouth, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, low blood pressure, sunken eyes, mucous and skin membranes, extreme fussiness, fever, sweating, urinating, unconsciousness, shriveled and dry skin may require medical attention (Mayo Clinic, 2009). Individuals’ urination can be dark yellow or amber color when he or she is dehydrated, however the urine is clear or light colored when hydrated (Mayo Clinic, 2009).
Water for Health Maintenance
Water is essential to health maintenance and life because the human body will survive without food for about two months...