Signs and symptoms
... Unfortunately, thirst isn''t a reliable gauge of the body''s need for water, especially in children and older adults. A better barometer is the color of your urine: clear or light-colored urine means ...

Causes
... If you''re an average adult, every day you lose close to 2.5 liters (more than 10 cups) of water simply by sweating, breathing and eliminating waste. You also lose electrolytes — minerals such a...

Risk factors
... Given the right circumstances — a transatlantic plane flight, a stretch of hot weather or a bout of punishing exercise — anyone can become dehydrated. But certain people are at greater ris...

When to seek medical advice
... If you''re a healthy adult, you can usually treat mild to moderate dehydration by drinking more fluids. Get immediate medical care if you develop severe signs and symptoms such as extreme thirst, no u...

Screening and diagnosis
... Your doctor can often diagnose dehydration on the basis of physical symptoms such as little or no urination, sunken eyes and skin that lacks its normal elasticity and resilience when pinched. If you''...