Symptoms of Dehydration Symptoms of dehydration vary depending on its severity and the individual affected. In mild to moderate cases, dehydration may present with general discomfort and subtle signs, while severe dehydration can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Mild to Moderate Symptoms These are often the earliest signs and are easily reversed with prompt fluid intake: Dry mouth and throat Increased thirst Reduced urine output or dark yellow urine Headache or light-headedness Fatigue and weakness Dry or cool skin Muscle cramps, especially during exercise Children may exhibit: Dry nappies for longer than usual Irritability or lethargy Sunken eyes or soft spots on the head (fontanelles) Lack of tears when crying Severe Symptoms | Symptoms of Dehydration As dehydration progresses, more serious symptoms may develop: Rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure Confusion, dizziness, or fainting Sunken eyes, dry and shrivelled skin Lack of sweating even in heat Rapid breathing Loss of consciousness Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention, particularly in young children, the elderly, or people with underlying health issues. Symptoms in Older Adults Older people may not display typical symptoms due to: A blunted sense of thirst Pre-existing cognitive issues, such as dementia Use of medications that affect fluid balanceSigns may include: Sudden confusion or disorientation Falls or loss of balance Constipation or urinary tract infections Chronic Dehydration In some cases, dehydration may persist at a low level over time, contributing to: Ongoing fatigue Constipation Poor concentration Frequent headaches In summary, symptoms of dehydration range from mild thirst to life-threatening complications. Recognising the signs early allows for quick and effective treatment, reducing the risk of serious health consequences. [Next: Diagnosis of Dehydration →]