When we do not drink sufficient water throughout the day, the human body becomes dehydrated and this affects the whole body in various ways.
Dehydration causes fatigue, constipation, headaches, stiff and painful joints, sore muscles, vomiting, and various other problems. Drinking insufficient water can also lead to a host of health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer, as well as affecting one’s ability to think coherently, short-term memory, and mathematical ability.
Most of us do not even realise that we are basically constantly walking around at least partially dehydrated; if your mouth is dry and sticky, your skin is dry, you are lightheaded or dizzy, constipated or have decreased urine output, chances are you are mildly dehydrated. Thirst and a dry mouth are the first signs that your body is sending you to let you know that you are becoming dehydrated and that it needs more water – once you drink sufficient water these signs will disappear and you will feel more alert and refreshed.
Severe dehydration is another kettle of fish entirely, and is a medical emergency. Severe dehydration manifests as extreme thirst and little or no urine being passed and when it is, it is very dark. A severely dry mouth and skin, mucous membranes that have dried up, insomnia, sunken eyes, skin that has lost its elasticity, a rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, delirium and coma. This requires immediate medical attention.
If you or anyone are suffering from weight loss for no good reason, diarrhoea for more than 48 hours, vomiting for more than 48 hours, a fever of 38.8°c (101°f), or are feeling weak and confused, it may be due to dehydration and will require a visit to the GP.
If however symptoms include a high fever of 39.9°c (103°f), lethargy and confusion, difficulty in breathing, fainting, a severe headache, chest or abdominal pains, seizures, and no urine passed for 12 hours, it is a medical emergency and requires a visit to a hospital emergency department.
Remember to drink water regularly throughout the day and drink more if you are physically active, it is hotter than normal, you are ill or on medication, or have diabetes. If you do not like tap water due to the poor quality or taste of the water, invest in a water cooler for optimal health.
Get home water coolers and office water coolers from Living-Water. Hire water coolers and purchase water coolers online in London.
