Dehydration

Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. Heat, fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, heavy exercise, or simply not drinking enough can cause it. Mild dehydration causes headache and fatigue; severe dehydration can be life-threatening, especially in children and the elderly.

Symptoms

• Thirst, dry mouth, dry lips.
• Dark yellow urine, less urine than usual.
• Headache, tiredness, dizziness.
• Dry skin, sunken eyes.
• In infants — fewer wet nappies, dry mouth, sunken fontanelle (soft spot on head), no tears when crying, lethargy.

Red flags — dial 112 or go to hospital

• Confusion, drowsiness, unable to keep down fluids.
• Fast heartbeat, fast breathing, fainting.
• Very low urine output for 12 hours.
• A child who is floppy, not feeding, or not passing urine.
• An elderly person who is suddenly confused or very weak.

Treatment — fluid and salt, not just water

• ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is the single most effective treatment. One ORS sachet in 1 litre of clean water — sip slowly.
• A home mix when ORS isn't available: 6 level teaspoons sugar + half teaspoon salt in 1 litre of clean water.
• For young children with diarrhoea, ORS with zinc syrup (for 10-14 days) is recommended — asks a Health Expert.
• Severe dehydration often needs IV fluids at a clinic or hospital.

India-specific prevention

• In Indian summers (April-June especially), heat-stroke can cause life-threatening dehydration. Avoid heavy outdoor work between 11 am and 4 pm; carry water and ORS.
• During a diarrhoea or fever illness, start ORS early — don't wait for someone to look sick.
• Outdoor workers, field labourers, security staff, and delivery riders are at particular risk — plan regular fluid breaks.
• Plain water is not enough when losing salt through heavy sweating or diarrhoea — use ORS or a home mix.