Two-thirds of the body is made up of water, which is equivalent to around 46 liters for a person weighing around 70 kilos. Water is essential for maintaining the health of the body. To ensure good fluid balance, it is recommended to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of fluids per day (approximately 8 glasses of water) if you are in good health and do not sweat excessively. This helps prevent certain complications, such as the formation of kidney stones. Dehydration can occur when the body's water intake is insufficient.
Dehydration can affect anyone and is manifested by a significant decrease in fluid in the body. Diarrhea is one of the main causes of dehydration, resulting from poor hygiene, malnutrition or hydration with contaminated water. Young children and the elderly require special attention, as they may have more difficulty hydrating themselves regularly.
Signs and symptoms of dehydration to watch for
Certain specific signs can identify dehydration: less need to urinate, absence of tears, dry tongue, dry lips and skin, “grayish” skin, sunken fontanelle in infants. Diarrhea, vomiting and other symptoms may also accompany this condition, such as fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and abdominal cramps. The presence of blood in the stool can be an alarming sign of significant dehydration.
Simple tests to detect dehydration
You can do a few tests to assess your hydration level. The skin pinch test is quick and easy: pinch the skin on the back of your hand, between your thumb and index finger. If the skin returns to its place immediately, that's a good sign. If it takes longer to return to its original shape, this may indicate dehydration.
Another indicator is urine. In a well-hydrated body, urine is pale yellow and odorless. If it is dark or honey-colored, this may signal possible dehydration. Urinating infrequently can also be a sign.
How to stay well hydrated?
To prevent or treat mild dehydration, it is recommended to drink plain water or fluid replacement products, such as electrolyte drinks. Hydratis offers life-saving drinks in the form of effervescent tablets to dissolve in a large glass of water, to be consumed up to 2 to 3 times a day as needed. During vigorous exercise or illness, drinking plenty of fluids and adding a little extra salt can be effective.
If severe dehydration occurs, an emergency situation requiring immediate medical attention may occur. A solution like Hydratis can be administered to restore fluid balance.
It is important to treat the underlying cause of dehydration. For example, in case of diarrhea, appropriate medications can be taken to treat it. Medical monitoring is necessary to ensure hydration is adequately maintained after treating the cause.
In conclusion, to prevent dehydration, it is essential to drink enough water or replacement fluids, especially in conditions favorable to dehydration, such as hot, humid or cold weather, high altitude or strenuous physical exertion. . Avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated beverages is also recommended, as they can accelerate dehydration by increasing urine output. Daily consumption of 2 to 3 liters of fluids is recommended to maintain good hydration. If a child experiences symptoms of dehydration, it is important to consult a healthcare professional immediately.
