How can you treat dehydration at home. What are the most effective natural remedies for dehydration. Which foods and drinks help replenish fluids and electrolytes. How to recognize the signs of severe dehydration that require medical attention.

Understanding Dehydration: Causes and Symptoms

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluids than it takes in, disrupting the delicate balance of water and electrolytes necessary for proper bodily functions. While mild dehydration can often be treated at home, severe cases require immediate medical attention.

Common causes of dehydration include:

• Excessive sweating from heat or exercise
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• High fever
• Frequent urination (e.g. from diabetes or diuretic medications)
• Insufficient fluid intake

Recognizing the signs of dehydration is crucial for timely treatment. Symptoms may include:

• Extreme thirst
• Dry mouth and lips
• Decreased urine output or dark-colored urine
• Fatigue or dizziness
• Headache
• Rapid heartbeat

Oral Rehydration: The First Line of Defense

For mild to moderate dehydration, oral rehydration is the primary treatment method. This involves replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes through careful fluid intake.

Can you treat dehydration by simply drinking water? While water is essential, it may not be sufficient on its own. Electrolyte-rich solutions are often more effective in restoring the body’s fluid balance.

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS)

Commercial oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte or Hydralyte are specifically formulated to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. These can be particularly useful for children or in cases of illness-induced dehydration.

Homemade Rehydration Drinks

While it’s not recommended to make your own electrolyte solution without proper guidance, you can create simple rehydrating drinks at home:

• Diluted fruit juices
• Coconut water
• Clear broths
• Herbal teas

Natural Remedies to Combat Dehydration

Nature offers a variety of foods and herbs that can help replenish fluids and electrolytes. Here are some effective home remedies for dehydration:

1. Coconut Water

Rich in electrolytes, particularly potassium, coconut water is an excellent natural rehydration drink. It’s easily digestible and contains natural sugars that can help restore energy levels.

2. Buttermilk

A traditional remedy in many cultures, buttermilk is rich in electrolytes and probiotics. It can help soothe the digestive system while replenishing lost fluids.

3. Watermelon

With its high water content and natural electrolytes, watermelon is an ideal food for combating dehydration. It’s also rich in vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health.

4. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds can absorb up to 10 times their weight in water, making them excellent for prolonged hydration. They also provide omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

5. Lemon Water

Adding fresh lemon juice to water not only improves flavor but also provides vitamin C and helps balance electrolytes.

Hydrating Foods to Include in Your Diet

Incorporating water-rich foods into your diet can significantly contribute to your daily fluid intake. Some hydrating foods include:

• Cucumbers (96% water)
• Celery (95% water)
• Tomatoes (94% water)
• Bell peppers (92% water)
• Strawberries (91% water)
• Cantaloupe (90% water)

How can these foods help prevent dehydration? By consuming water-rich foods, you’re not only increasing your fluid intake but also getting essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support overall health and hydration.

Herbal Teas and Infusions for Hydration

Herbal teas can be a soothing and effective way to increase fluid intake while providing additional health benefits. Some beneficial herbal teas for hydration include:

Peppermint Tea

Known for its cooling properties, peppermint tea can help regulate body temperature and provide a refreshing source of hydration.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has mild sedative properties that can help calm the digestive system, making it particularly useful in cases of dehydration caused by diarrhea or vomiting.

Ginger Tea

Ginger can help reduce nausea and inflammation, making it an excellent choice for hydration when feeling unwell.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Dehydration

While mild dehydration can often be treated at home, severe dehydration is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical care if you or someone you’re caring for experiences:

• Extreme thirst
• Lack of urination for 8 hours or more
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion or disorientation
• Fainting or seizures

In children, additional warning signs include:

• No tears when crying
• Sunken eyes or cheeks
• Lack of wet diapers for 3 hours or more
• Unusually sleepy or irritable behavior

Preventing Dehydration: Tips for Staying Hydrated

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dehydration. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated:

1. Drink water regularly throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty
2. Increase fluid intake during hot weather or when exercising
3. Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables
4. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, as these can have a diuretic effect
5. Monitor your urine color – pale yellow indicates good hydration
6. Use a reusable water bottle to track your daily water intake

How much water should you drink daily? While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to aim for 8-10 glasses (64-80 ounces) of water per day for most adults.

Special Considerations for Hydration in Different Age Groups

Hydration needs can vary significantly across different age groups and life stages. Let’s explore some specific considerations:

Infants and Young Children

Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. Breast milk or formula provides adequate hydration for infants under 6 months. For older babies and children:

• Offer water between feedings
• Use oral rehydration solutions during illness
• Avoid sugary drinks that can worsen diarrhea

Elderly Adults

Older adults are at increased risk of dehydration due to decreased thirst sensation and changes in kidney function. Tips for maintaining hydration in the elderly include:

• Setting reminders to drink water regularly
• Keeping water easily accessible
• Incorporating hydrating foods into meals
• Monitoring medications that may increase dehydration risk

Athletes and Active Individuals

Those engaging in intense physical activity have increased hydration needs. Strategies for athletes include:

• Hydrating before, during, and after exercise
• Using sports drinks for prolonged activities (over 60 minutes)
• Monitoring sweat rate and adjusting fluid intake accordingly

How can athletes prevent dehydration during intense workouts? Pre-hydrating, sipping water regularly during exercise, and replenishing electrolytes post-workout are key strategies.

The Role of Electrolytes in Hydration

Electrolytes play a crucial role in maintaining proper hydration and bodily functions. These essential minerals include:

• Sodium
• Potassium
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Chloride

Electrolytes help regulate nerve and muscle function, hydrate the body, balance blood acidity and pressure, and help rebuild damaged tissue. When you become dehydrated, you lose electrolytes along with water.

Natural Sources of Electrolytes

While commercial sports drinks can provide electrolytes, many natural foods are excellent sources:

• Bananas (potassium)
• Spinach (magnesium)
• Yogurt (calcium)
• Avocados (potassium and magnesium)
• Nuts and seeds (various electrolytes)

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help maintain electrolyte balance and support proper hydration.

Technological Aids for Hydration Tracking

In our digital age, various technological tools can help you monitor and improve your hydration habits:

Smart Water Bottles

These high-tech bottles can track your water intake, remind you to drink, and sync with fitness apps for comprehensive health monitoring.

Hydration Apps

Numerous smartphone apps are available to help you log your fluid intake, set hydration goals, and receive reminders to drink water throughout the day.

Wearable Devices

Some fitness trackers and smartwatches now include hydration tracking features, allowing you to monitor your fluid intake alongside other health metrics.

Can technology really help improve hydration habits? While these tools can provide useful reminders and tracking capabilities, they should be used in conjunction with listening to your body’s natural thirst cues.

Understanding the Impact of Climate on Hydration Needs

Your environment plays a significant role in determining your hydration needs. Different climates and altitudes can affect how quickly you lose fluids and how much you need to drink to stay hydrated.

Hot and Humid Climates

In hot and humid conditions, your body sweats more to cool itself down, increasing the risk of dehydration. Tips for staying hydrated in hot climates include:

• Drinking water before you feel thirsty
• Avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day
• Wearing light, breathable clothing
• Using electrolyte-rich beverages for prolonged outdoor activities

Cold Climates

While often overlooked, cold weather can also lead to dehydration. The dry air and increased respiratory water loss can quickly deplete your body’s fluids. In cold climates:

• Drink warm fluids regularly
• Be aware that thirst sensation may be diminished in cold weather
• Monitor urine color as an indicator of hydration status

High Altitudes

At high altitudes, the air is drier and your body loses more water through respiration. Additionally, altitude sickness can cause symptoms like nausea and loss of appetite, further contributing to dehydration. When at high altitudes:

• Increase your fluid intake
• Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption
• Consider using a humidifier in your sleeping area

How does altitude affect hydration needs? At higher elevations, your body loses water more rapidly through increased respiration and urination, necessitating a higher fluid intake to maintain proper hydration.

The Connection Between Hydration and Overall Health

Proper hydration is fundamental to numerous bodily functions and overall health. Understanding this connection can motivate better hydration habits.

Cognitive Function

Even mild dehydration can impair cognitive performance, affecting memory, attention, and mood. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining mental clarity and focus throughout the day.

Physical Performance

Adequate hydration is essential for optimal physical performance. Dehydration can lead to decreased endurance, increased fatigue, and reduced motivation during exercise.

Digestive Health

Proper hydration supports digestive function by helping to prevent constipation and supporting the mucosal lining of the intestines.

Skin Health

Well-hydrated skin appears more plump and elastic. While drinking water alone won’t cure all skin issues, proper hydration is an important factor in maintaining healthy skin.

Kidney Function

Adequate fluid intake is crucial for kidney health, helping to flush out toxins and reduce the risk of kidney stones.

How does hydration impact overall health? Proper hydration supports nearly every system in the body, from cognitive function to physical performance and organ health, underlining its importance in maintaining overall well-being.

As we conclude our comprehensive guide to treating and preventing dehydration, remember that maintaining proper hydration is a daily practice. By incorporating these tips and remedies into your routine, you can ensure that your body remains well-hydrated, supporting optimal health and well-being. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or simply looking to improve your health, prioritizing hydration is a simple yet powerful step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Dehydration Treatment – Oral Rehydration Therapy and Fluid Replacement

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Is Drinking Water Enough?
• What to Do for a Dehydrated Child

You can become dehydrated for many different reasons. It could be from sweating too much. Vomiting or diarrhea can quickly remove fluids from your body, too. So can medicines that make you pee a lot.

All of these things can cause you to lose more water and electrolytes (essential minerals in your blood and body fluids) than are good for you. If you don’t have enough, your body has trouble doing the things it’s supposed to do.

There’s really only one way to treat dehydration — replace the fluids and electrolytes your body has lost.

For a mild case, it should be enough just to drink plenty of fluids. Water is your first choice, but there are lots of special drinks on the market that will help you replace your body’s lost water and electrolytes.

If you can’t get a pre-mixed rehydration solution, don’t try to make one yourself. Instead, replace lost fluids naturally with sips of water, fruit juice, crushed fruit mixed with water, or salty soups or broths.

Fruit juices may upset your stomach, so it’s best to dilute them with water. Avoid coffee, tea, soda, and alcoholic drinks. They’re diuretics, which means they can dehydrate you more because they all pull water from your body.

If your dehydration is serious, you may need to see a doctor to get treated with intravenous (IV) fluids. Severe dehydration may require you to go to the hospital. You should get medical attention immediately if you:

• Haven’t peed in 8 hours
• Have had a seizure
• Are disoriented or confused
• Have a weak or rapid pulse
• Feel very tired
• Feel dizzy when you stand
• Are too sick (nauseated or vomiting) to take in fluids

If your baby or child becomes dehydrated (usually because of a fever, vomiting or diarrhea), treatment with an oral rehydration solution is your best bet. There are several over-the-counter options (Hydralyte and Pedialyte), which will give your child the right balance of electrolytes and salts.

Try giving small sips or by the teaspoon to begin with. You may even need to use a syringe if they’re having trouble drinking. For an older child, sports drinks diluted with water are the best treatment. Again, start with small sips and give them more as they show they can tolerate it.

For an infant, give plenty of breast milk and formula, but don’t give fruit juices if they are vomiting or have diarrhea. They can make it worse.

Dehydration can be serious in a baby or young child. If you notice these signs, see a doctor right away:

• Extreme sleepiness
• Less responsive than usual
• Few wet diapers
• Cold and blotchy hands and feet
• No tears when crying
• Dark yellow pee
• Very dry mouth

Usually, dehydration is easy to treat at home if you get out of the heat and drink plenty of liquids. But once you’re thirsty, you’re probably already dehydrated, so it’s best to drink plenty of fluids regularly.

Top Picks

15 Simple And Effective Home Remedies To Treat Dehydration

If you have ever felt parched at night after drinking a bottle of water, then chances are you may be suffering from dehydration. Our body is made up of 70% water, and without it, our bodies cannot function. When your body loses fluid through sweat and urine without replenishing the same amount, it may lead to dehydration (1). Thankfully, there are a few home remedies to treat dehydration in a jiffy. While drinking water takes care of dehydration in most cases, severe cases of dehydration require immediate medical attention. In this article, we take a deeper look at some of the causes and symptoms of dehydration and the treatment options available.

In This Article

In This Article

• What Is Dehydration?
• Causes Of Dehydration
• Signs And Symptoms Of Dehydration
• Side Effects Of Dehydration
• How To Treat Dehydration Naturally
• Preventive Tips

What Is Dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when your body is unable to retain fluids and electrolytes. When there is a reduction in the water content of the body, the salt-sugar balance goes haywire, which affects the functioning of the body. There are many factors that could cause fluid loss and eventually lead to dehydration. Let’s take a look at them below.

Causes Of Dehydration

Dehydration may be the result of a minor underlying issue, such as a rigorous workout session or decreased water intake. Some other causes of dehydration are as follows:

• Diarrhea Or Vomiting: Both diarrhea and vomiting lead to excessive loss of water from your body, and this can cause dehydration.
• Fever: Running a high fever increases your chance of becoming dehydrated.
• Frequent Urination: Frequent urination following a disease like diabetes or intake of certain diuretic medications also has the potential to result in dehydration.
• Sweating In Excess: If your body loses a lot of fluids after an intense workout, you are at a higher risk of becoming dehydrated.
• Age: Dehydration in elderly people and infants is fairly common and they are at higher risk of becoming dehydrated.
• Chronic Illnesses: Individuals suffering from chronic diseases, such as diabetes and kidney diseases, are also at higher dehydration risk.
• Weather: Extremely cold or hot weather has the potential to cause heat stroke and excessive water loss in your body, leading to dehydration.

Let us now look at the common signs and symptoms of dehydration in adults and infants.

Signs And Symptoms Of Dehydration

 In Adults

Dehydration can have a mild to severe impact on the affected individuals. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of dehydration in adults include:

• A dry and sticky tongue
• Excessive thirst
• Less frequent urination
• Dizziness
• Urine becomes dark
• Fatigue
• Skin dryness

Dehydration impairs physical ability by:
⬇️ sweat rate

⬇️ blood volume

⬇️ skin blood flow

⬆️ rate of muscle glycogen (stored energy) use

⬆️ core temperature#hydration #dehydration #performancenutrition #hydrate #health #nutrition

— KayleeJacks_RD_CSSD (@kayleejacks_rd) November 7, 2022

In Children

The signs and symptoms of dehydration in children may vary from that of adults. The dehydration effects on children and infants are as follows:

• A dry mouth (2)
• Eyes and cheeks appear sunken
• Increased sleep and lack of energy
• Increased tiredness
• Dry diapers for more than 3 hours
• Absence of tears while crying

Research shows even mild #dehydration can cause mood changes, including anger, anxiety, depression, brain fog, & headache
anger, hostility, confusion, and depression. Don’t forget to drink #water. #health

— Samaa Al-Moussalli 🇬🇧🧠 (@Smousali1974) June 8, 2023

Dehydration could be a major concern when it affects children and must be attended to immediately. Let’s now look at some side effects that are often associated with dehydration.

Side Effects Of Dehydration

Dehydration may also cause some unusual side effects like

• Bad breath
• Frequent chills
• Cravings for sweets
• Cramps in the muscles
• Headaches
• Dry skin

Dehydration can turn serious when left untreated and may also lead to a medical emergency. It is, hence, of utmost importance to treat the condition as soon as you observe its onset. Below are some simple and natural remedies for dehydration treatment.

Effects of #dehydration :
😩Fatigue
😤Irritability
❌Performance
💥Muscle cramping
🥴Poor coordination
🍽Loss of appetite
🧠Risk of Depression
⬆️Risk of injury & illness
⬇️Declines in strength, speed & recovery
🌡Inability to cool down, poor circulation & increased body temp

— Wendi A. Irlbeck MS, RDN, LD, CISSN (@Wendi_Irlbeck) August 4, 2021

How To Treat Dehydration Naturally

1. Bananas
2. Buttermilk
3. Barley Water
4. Soups
5. Coconut Water
6. Essential Oils
7. Homemade ORS
8. Pickle Juice
9. Cranberry Juice
10. Apple Juice
11. Orange Juice
12. Lemon Water
13. Salt
14. Yogurt
15. Epsom Salt Bath

Best Home Remedies For Dehydration

1. Bananas

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

1-2 bananas

What You Have To Do

Have a banana before indulging in any intensive physical activity.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this twice daily.

How This Works

Dehydration causes a deficiency of potassium in your body. Bananas have high potassium content and can help replenish its levels and combat dehydration (3).

Caution

Bananas can be included in your infant’s diet only if he/she is more than 6 months old.

Quick Tip

You may also boil the bananas for better digestion, especially if it is for children below the age of 5.

Related: 33 Wonderful Benefits Of Banana For Skin, Hair, And Health

2. Buttermilk

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 cup of buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon of dry ginger

What You Have To Do

1. Mix dry ginger in a cup of buttermilk.
2. Consume this refreshing drink.

How Often You Should Do This

You must drink buttermilk at least 3 to 4 times a day to combat dehydration.

How This Works

Buttermilk is a natural probiotic. It is rich in minerals such as potassium and magnesium that are often depleted when you sweat excessively and become dehydrated (4).

Note: Buttermilk is not only safe but also beneficial for your infant’s overall health.

Related: 13 Potential Buttermilk Benefits, Nutrition, Recipes, And More

3. Barley Water

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 cup of barley
• 3 to 4 cups of water
• 1/2 lemon
• Honey

What You Have To Do

1. Add a cup of barley to water and bring to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Simmer for 40 to 50 minutes.
3. Let the barley infusion cool.
4. Strain the barley water and add lemon and honey for flavor.
5. Drink this infusion at regular intervals throughout the day.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 3 to 4 times a day.

How This Works

Barley water is an extremely healthy drink. It is loaded with many antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help to restore the fluids lost by dehydration and keep you hydrated (5), (6).

Caution

Wait for your little one to turn at least 6 months before introducing barley to his/her diet.

Related: 25 Best Benefits Of Barley (Jau) For Health, Skin, And Hair

4. Soups

Image: Shutterstock

Soups are good sources of nutrients that can help in dealing with dehydration and its symptoms. The high content of minerals like potassium in soups makes them an ideal option to restore the lost nutrients in your body. For best results, consume soups before a rigorous workout session to help you stay hydrated. They can be used to treat dehydration in babies once they turn 6 months old.

5. Coconut Water

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

1 glass of young coconut water

What You Have To Do

Drink young coconut water throughout the day.

How Often You Should Do This

You must drink coconut water 4 to 5 times daily for best results.

How This Works

Coconut water is high in sodium and potassium, the levels of which are often depleted when you are dehydrated. This makes it one of the best options to treat dehydration naturally (7), (8).

Caution

Give coconut water to your baby only once he/she completes 6 months.

6. Essential Oils

Image: Shutterstock

a. Lemon Essential Oil

You Will Need

• 1 to 2 drops of lemon essential oil
• 1 glass of water

What You Have To Do

1. Add a few drops of lemon essential oil to a glass of water.
2. Drink this solution.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink the lemon-flavored drink once daily.

How This Works

Lemon essential oil has antioxidant and cleansing properties and is great to keep you hydrated and healthy (9).

b. Wild Orange Essential Oil

You Will Need

• 1 to 2 drops of wild orange essential oil
• 1 glass of water

What You Have To Do

1. Add a couple of drops of wild orange essential oil to a glass of water and mix well.
2. Consume this flavored water throughout the day.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink this water at least once daily.

How This Works

Wild orange flavored water is a refreshing antioxidant drink that promotes overall health and enhances the functioning of your immune system. It is a flavorful and healthy way to treat dehydration as compared to unhealthy drinks with high sugar content (10).

c. Peppermint Essential Oil

You Will Need

• 2 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 1 glass of water

What You Have To Do

Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a glass of water and consume daily.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 1 to 2 times daily.

How This Works

Peppermint oil contains potassium and magnesium – the reserves of which are low in dehydrated individuals. This peppermint oil infused water can help replenish the potassium and magnesium levels in your body and treat dehydration (11).

Caution

Infants and children should not be given essential oils internally until they are at least 6-10 years old.

7. Homemade ORS

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 6 teaspoons of sugar/brown sugar
• 4 cups of water

What You Have To Do

1. Add the salt and sugar to water and mix well until they are completely dissolved.
2. Drink this solution until the symptoms abate.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this multiple times until you have consumed at least 3 liters of this solution in a day.

How This Works

ORS stands for Oral Rehydration Solution. The name itself gives away the use of this remedy, i.e., to treat dehydration. Consuming ORS is one of the best ways to replace the lost fluids in your body. This is because the glucose content of sugar used in ORS helps in increased uptake of sodium and water that are lost due to dehydration (12), (13).

Note: ORS is one of the safest options to treat dehydration in infants. However, it is best to consult a doctor before doing so, especially if your infant is less than 6 months old.

8. Pickle Juice

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

1/3 cup of pickle juice

What You Have To Do

Drink pickle juice before or after an intense workout.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this once a day.

How This Works

Your body tends to lose a lot of potassium and sodium when you sweat excessively, and this leads to dehydration. A study revealed that men who were dehydrated found immediate relief from muscle cramps after consuming pickle juice. Pickle juice is high in sodium and is also known to have some amount of potassium in it. Thus, it is one of the best remedies to treat dehydration as it restores the electrolyte balance in your body (14).

Caution

Do not give pickle juice to your little one.

9. Cranberry Juice

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

2 cups of cranberry juice

What You Have To Do

Drink at least 2 glasses of unsweetened cranberry juice daily.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink this juice twice daily.

How This Works

Cranberry juice has high water content and is one of the best ways to treat dehydration naturally. It also contains essential sugars and salts that are often lost when you are dehydrated (15).

10. Apple Juice

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 apple
• 1/2 glass of water

What You Have To Do

1. Blend an apple with half a glass of water.
2. Drink this juice.

How Often You Should Do This

You can drink this juice twice daily.

How This Works

Apples are a rich source of magnesium. They also contain trace amounts of potassium and can, therefore, help in treating dehydration by restoring the lost minerals and electrolytes in your body. According to a study conducted in 2016, diluted apple juice is a more effective option as compared to electrolyte drinks to treat dehydration in children (16), (17).

Caution

You need to wait for your babies to complete at least 6 months before introducing fruit juices and solid foods in their diet.

11. Orange Juice

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

1 to 2 glasses of unsweetened orange juice

What You Have To Do

Drink a glass of unsweetened orange juice before or after a strenuous workout.

How Often You Should Do This

You must drink this juice once or twice a day.

How This Works

Oranges are rich in a lot of vitamins and minerals. They also have electrolytes such as potassium and little amounts of magnesium present in them. Oranges, therefore, have the potential to keep dehydration at bay by maintaining the electrolyte balance in your body (18).

Caution

Children below 6 years of age should consume just half a cup of orange juice in a day.

12. Lemon Water

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1/2 lemon
• 1 glass of water
• Honey (optional)

What You Have To Do

1. Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of water.
2. Add honey for flavor and consume this drink daily.

How Often You Should Do This

Drink lemon water two to three times a day.

How This Works

Lemon water not only refreshes you but also helps you overcome dehydration by restoring the levels of potassium, sodium, and magnesium in your body (19).

Caution

Wait till your baby is 6 months old before introducing lemon to his/her diet.

13.

Salt

Image: Shutterstock

When you are dehydrated, your body ends up losing many significant minerals and electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium. In such a situation, it is recommended to increase the intake of these to balance their amount in your body. Your body has the natural ability to maintain the balance of sodium and water. When you are dehydrated, this balance is disturbed. Thus, increasing the amount of salt in your diet via sports drinks and foods rich in sodium can help your body regain the sodium-water balance. This, in turn, can help combat dehydration (20), (21).

14. Yogurt

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 cup of yogurt
• A pinch of salt

What You Have To Do

1. Add a pinch of salt to a cup of yogurt and mix well.
2. Consume this daily.

How Often You Should Do This

Do this 1 to 2 times daily.

How This Works

Yogurt is a rich source of electrolytes and can hence combat dehydration by restoring the lost electrolytes in your body (22).

Caution

You can include yogurt in your infant’s diet if he/she is older than 6 months.

Trivia

You may also add some water-rich fruits – like cantaloupe, strawberries, or peaches – to the yogurt for improved hydration as well as taste.

15. Epsom Salt Bath

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

• 1 cup of Epsom salt
• 1 bucket of water

What You Have To Do

1. Add a cup of Epsom salt to your bath water.
2. Soak and relax in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes.

How Often You Should Do This

You can do this 2 to 3 times a week.

How This Works

The magnesium in Epsom salt can help to combat dehydration and its symptoms when absorbed by your body (23).

Caution

Although an Epsom salt bath is relatively safe for children, it may cause issues if the bath water is swallowed. Infants below the age of 1 should be kept away from this treatment.

Although these remedies can help you in your fight against dehydration, following a few preventive tips and making a couple of lifestyle changes will prove beneficial in treating this condition.

Preventive Tips For Dehydration

• Include plenty of water and hydrating juices and thirst quenchers like watermelon and strawberry in your diet, especially before and after a rigorous activity.
• Use an electrolyte sports drink if you are planning to workout or exercise for more than an hour.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it increases dehydration.
• Quit smoking as it can cause dehydration in the long run.
• Wear lightweight and light-colored clothes if you are working out or exercising outdoors.
• Follow a healthy diet with high water content foods such as cucumbers, yogurt, papaya, and green salads as they help in dehydration prevention.

Data collected from 2015-2018 indicates that the average daily intake of plain water was 23 ounces for US children and adolescents (2-19 years) and 44 ounces for US adults. In the children to adolescent survey, lower plain water intake was noticed among younger ages, non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic ethnicity, lower-income households, and underweight or normal weight children. In the adult survey, older age, non-Hispanic Black ethnicity, lower income, lower education levels, and absence of obesity were linked to lower plain water intake.

Dehydration can disturb the electrolyte balance of the body and can even be life-threatening if not taken care of immediately. While drinking enough water is the fundamental way to replenish your body, eating bananas and drinking buttermilk, barley water, coconut water, lemon juice, and diluted peppermint essential oil are recommended to get enough electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Moreover, avoid alcohol intake and quit smoking as they can also cause dehydration. While these remedies combat mild and moderate dehydration effectively, serious cases need immediate medical attention. So, consult a doctor immediately if your condition is worsening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is milk good for dehydration?

Yes, milk is a very good option to rehydrate you. In fact, a study concluded that milk is better than water and electrolyte drinks to combat dehydration due to its high content of nutrients and electrolytes. But if you are worried about those extra calories, better stick to water.

What are the best drinks to treat dehydration besides water?

Besides water, fruit juices such as watermelon, strawberry, and orange, whole and skimmed milk, sports drinks, as well as coconut water can help in keeping you hydrated.

Which is the best electrolyte drink that can prevent dehydration?

Oral rehydration solution (ORS) is one of the best electrolyte drinks to prevent dehydration in adults and infants alike.

What vitamin helps treat dehydration?

Vitamin C may help with dehydration. However, while some proponents of vitamin C hydration therapy claim that it can help improve symptoms of dehydration and hydrate the body effectively, there is a lack of scientific research to validate this claim.

When should you go to the ER to treat dehydration?

Dehydration can be fatal unless treated on time. So, if you are experiencing an inability to urinate, delusion, confusion, dizziness, extreme heat exhaustion, or irritability, you should visit the ER for emergency medical services.

Does chugging water hydrate you?

Chugging water is no more effective for dehydration than sipping water slowly till you feel your symptoms have improved.

Is Gatorade good for dehydration?

Yes, Gatorade is formulated with electrolytes that can effectively help relieve the symptoms of dehydration.

Key Takeaways

• Restore the mineral balance by drinking electrolyte-rich liquids like coconut water or sports drinks.
• Help the body retain water by eating foods with high water content, like fruits and vegetables.
• Dehydration symptoms can be reduced by increasing the air’s moisture content using a humidifier.
• Prevent further dehydration by avoiding diuretics like alcohol and coffee.

Simple techniques will help you treat dehydration at home. Check out this video for advice on how to quickly and properly rehydrate and replace electrolytes.

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Dehydration and its symptoms

Moscow

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Health

Adviсe

Dehydration percentage:

• 1% – intense thirst, headache, general malaise;
• 5% – dizziness, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath;
• 10% – convulsions, cell death;
• 20% – death.

1

During illness, especially in case of poisoning and SARS, drink much more than usual, and not only hot tea, popular in such situations, but also just clean water;

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2

When exercising and in hot weather, also increase the intake of water that is lost through sweat;

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3

Don’t tolerate being thirsty – always have a small bottle of water with you. And even better – a stylish and compact AQUAPHOR City filter bottle.

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symptoms, causes, complications, treatments

1. How dehydration occurs
2. Causes of dehydration
3. Additional factors
4. What happens when you get dehydrated
5. Dehydration types
6. Symptoms
7. Diagnostics
8. Treatment for dehydration
9. Prophylaxis
10. Making a rehydrating solution at home

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Dehydration is a state of increased loss of moisture from the body. Otherwise, this condition is called dehydration or exsicosis. It is characterized by thirst, dry skin, decreased urine output. As the moisture deficit increases, the patient’s blood pressure decreases, the skin becomes pale, there are disturbances in consciousness, pathological changes in the blood composition – an increase in hematocrit. This is the name for an increase in the volume of red blood cells relative to the volume of the liquid part of the blood.

Dehydration is a dangerous condition in which the body needs an urgent restoration of water and electrolyte balance.

How dehydration occurs

Dehydration occurs when the liquid drops to 40–50 ml/kg. In this case, body weight decreases by 4-5% due to the loss of water. In the body, it is found in the blood, cells of organs and tissues, and intercellular space. If water loss as a result of exsicosis reaches 20-25%, tissue ischemia begins – a violation of the blood supply to organs and tissues due to an increase in hematocrit.

Causes of dehydration

Exicosis most often occurs against the background of various diseases and pathological conditions. Among them:

• intestinal infections that cause vomiting and upset stools;

• burns of the second or more degree, in which there is an extensive release of exudate;

• diseases that are accompanied by fever and increased sweating;

• insufficient fluid intake with food;

• diseases accompanied by shortness of breath, in which the body loses moisture due to the release of water vapor.

The most common cause of dehydration is intestinal infections. Up to 48% of all clinical cases of exsicosis are associated with such diseases. They pose the greatest danger to young children. Frequent vomiting and loose stools lead to rapid loss of moisture, which causes dehydration. In countries with a low standard of living and a high incidence of intestinal infections, excoses are one of the main causes of death in young children under the age of 5–6 years.

With extensive burns, a large amount of exudate is released. If the patient does not receive fluid replacement therapy, a fluid deficiency develops.

Increased sweating at elevated body temperature requires control of the drinking regimen. This is especially important if the patient is in a warm room.

Insufficient fluid intake with meals can lead to dehydration if a person voluntarily or deliberately restricts drinking. About one and a half liters of water the body loses per day with sweat, defecation and urination. If the fluid intake is below normal, exsicosis develops.

Dehydration associated with shortness of breath occurs in patients with respiratory and cardiac pathologies. This phenomenon in healthy people is observed when traveling to high mountainous areas due to changes in the composition of the air.

Additional factors

Even healthy people who live in hot regions, do intensive sports or physical labor in hot weather, and stay in the mountains face a moisture deficiency in the body. To avoid dehydration, it is necessary to consume enough water, fresh vegetables and fruits.

Patients taking diuretics and people on mechanical ventilation are also at risk. To prevent exsicosis, patients on mechanical ventilation are injected with saline solutions and moisten the respiratory mixture that enters the body.

What happens when you get dehydrated

When the body loses a lot of moisture, blood viscosity changes first of all. It increases against the background of a decrease in plasma volume. This negatively affects the blood supply to organs and tissues, including the brain. Dehydration leads to an electrolyte imbalance, a decrease in the amount of mineral salts. A decrease in the concentration of potassium, calcium and sodium ions leads to disruption in the work of the heart.

A patient with severe dehydration has acidosis, which is characterized by an acid-base imbalance. The pH formula shifts to the acid side. This leads to repeated vomiting, after which the person develops metabolic alkalosis. It is manifested by various disorders in the work of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Dehydration types

The classification of exicoses includes their division into several groups depending on the severity of the course, the cause of the development of the pathology, the presence or absence of complications.

The severity of dehydration is mild, moderate and severe. It can be caused by external and internal causes, pass with complications and without them.

When choosing therapy, experts pay attention to the ratio of the loss of mineral salts and water. On this basis, three forms of dehydration are distinguished:

• hypoosmolar. It is characterized by a rapid loss of salts with a slow development of water deficiency. This leads to the rapid onset of negative symptoms from the central nervous system. The patient’s blood circulation is disturbed, signs of a neurological disorder appear;

• hyperosmolar. Fluid loss occurs faster than electrolyte loss. Due to this, their concentration increases. With this kind of dehydration, pronounced symptoms appear only with a significant deficit of moisture;

• isosmolar. The loss of water and salts is about the same. The patient has a decrease in the amount of urine excreted, may decrease blood pressure (BP) and central venous pressure.

Symptoms

Each degree of dehydration is characterized by special signs:

• mild degree. The patient is thirsty, the pulse remains normal, may become more frequent. Skin and mucous membranes are unchanged. On the part of the nervous system, there may be signs of anxiety and anxiety;

• average degree. Externally, the pathology is manifested by dry skin and mucous membranes, a decrease in diuresis. The eyes become sunken, the patient’s pulse quickens, the pressure is increased or decreased by about 20% of the usual values. From the side of the central nervous system, both anxiety and lethargy can be observed;

• severe degree. Pronounced fluid deficiency causes neurological disorders. The patient is very lethargic and practically does not react to anything. Breathing becomes difficult, blood pressure is greatly reduced, tachycardia is characteristic. The skin looks pale and has a bluish tint, it is cold to the touch.

Moderate to severe dehydration increases the risk of complications. First of all, they are associated with the formation of blood clots due to the high viscosity of the blood. When a thrombus clogs the vessels of vital organs, the patient may die or receive irreversible negative changes. Some people who survive severe dehydration develop chronic headaches, weakness, and reduced muscle mobility. Children have cognitive impairment.

Diagnostics

At the first signs of dehydration, it is necessary to contact a medical institution to a general practitioner, a general practitioner, a pediatrician. If dehydration is severe, an ambulance must be called to hospitalize the patient in a medical facility.

For the diagnosis of exicosis, the following are used:

• visual examination and questioning of the patient for the presence of vomiting, diarrhea;

• measurement of arterial and central venous pressure;

• blood test for electrolytes and hematocrit.

A decrease in central venous pressure and an increase in hematocrit above the age norm indicate fluid deficiency.

Treatment for dehydration

With mild dehydration, the patient is treated at home. With moderate and severe fluid deficiency, which are accompanied by changes in the central nervous system, circulatory disorders, hospitalization and intensive treatment are necessary.

The main ways to eliminate exsicosis are:

• the use of rehydrating solutions or large amounts of liquid with the addition of salt to restore water and electrolyte balance;

• intravenous infusion of glucose and saline solutions. It is used in conditions that are accompanied by severe vomiting. Fluid therapy will make up for the lack of fluid if the patient cannot drink it by mouth due to frequent vomiting.

Severe dehydration may require intensive care with a ventilator. With signs of tissue ischemia, neuroprotectors, potassium preparations, drugs to maintain the work of the heart are prescribed.

Treatment is continued until normalization of blood circulation and diuresis. To achieve stable results, it is important to identify the exact cause of the pathological condition and eliminate it.

As a rule, with a slight dehydration, it is possible to completely normalize the patient’s condition within 1-2 days. In moderate and severe dehydration, the prognosis depends on the severity. In some cases, the risk of developing serious violations of body functions, up to irreversible processes, increases.

Prophylaxis

To avoid dehydration, you need to know what factors provoke it, and take appropriate safety measures. This is, first of all, adequate intake of water and fluids. Its volume is from 1.5 liters per day and increases with intense physical exertion, in hot weather.

If the patient has diarrhea or vomiting, rehydration solutions should be used to prevent dehydration. You can buy them at a pharmacy or make your own at home. Pharmacy rehydrating solutions contain potassium chloride, sodium chloride and other mineral salts.

The funds are available in the form of a powder that dissolves in water and is taken orally to prevent water and electrolyte disorders. Powders contain flavoring additives, due to which the use of the drug does not cause discomfort in adults and children.

In addition to powders, rehydrating agents are available as infusion solutions.

Making a rehydrating solution at home

If it is not possible to buy a pharmacy product, it can be seen as a home analogue. To prepare the drink, you need a tablespoon of salt, a teaspoon of soda and two tablespoons of sugar.