Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What is dehydration?
A person is dehydrated if their body doesn't have enough water to function properly. This can be a relatively mild issue or even a serious one, potentially causing death.
Why is it important to stay properly hydrated?
Because being dehydrated can make us feel uncomfortable or sick, and in serious cases it can lead to death.
How can one stay properly hydrated?
Drink lots of fluids on a regular basis, know what causes your body to become dehydrated, and re-hydrate as necessary.
What makes us dehydrated?
Not consuming enough fluids, heat, working hard, and losing bodily fluids, including when vomiting or suffering diarrhea.
What are some symptoms of dehydration?
Symptoms include thirst; dry mouth, skin, and mucous membranes; lack of sweat; dark urine; lack of urine; sunken eyes; skin that doesn't bounce back when pinched; fast heart beat; fever; delirium; and unconsciousness.
What is the proper first aid for mild and severe dehydration?
For mild dehydration, remove the person from heat, have the person rest, and have the person drink small amounts of water over a few hours. For more extreme cases, summon emergency medical assistance.