Assessing for Signs of Dehydration...
At time of writing, we are heading into ‘autumn’ in the northern nsw area of Australia….although, it still feels REALLY hot most of the time.
(I adore this part of the world, but there are about 4 weeks of the years that its unbearably HOT).
So as we drag ourselves to the finish line of summer, and I watch myself and my family really looking forward to things cooling down (my husband is a roof tiler in this heat)…I think about dehydration and its effects.
As a natural health practitioner, it's important to be able to recognize the signs of dehydration in your patients. Dehydration can cause a wide range of health problems, having an impact on organ health and functionality, and general vitality and wellbeing.
Here are some signs of dehydration to look out for in your patients:
Dry or sticky mouth: A dry or sticky mouth is often one of the first signs of dehydration.
Dark urine: Dehydrated patients may have dark yellow or amber-colored urine, which is a sign that their body is conserving fluids by producing less urine.
Fatigue and weakness
Dizziness or lightheadedness: Dehydration can cause a drop in blood pressure, which can make your patients feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Headaches: Dehydration can cause headaches as the brain needs water to function properly.
Dry skin: Dehydration can make your patient's skin appear dry, tight, or flaky, also low skin turgor (which I speak more on in the cheatsheet - see below).
Constipation
Muscle cramps: Dehydration can cause muscle cramps and spasms due to the lack of fluids and electrolyte imbalance in the body.
Reduced urine output
Confusion or irritability: In severe cases, dehydration can cause confusion, irritability, and even seizures.
Assessing for signs of dehydration can be quick, and easy, but its really important to be able to identify any red flags in this area.