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Know the Symptoms of Dehydration in Las Vegas, NV

Dehydration means your body has less water and other fluids than it needs. Since fluids and water are needed by all the organs in your body, untreated dehydration can become life threatening very quickly. Athletes, the elderly, and infants are have the highest risk for dehydration.

Use InQuicker, the Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican online waiting service, to select your estimated arrival time at the emergency room for dehydration in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV. 

 

When Does Dehydration Need Emergency Care?

Severe dehydration is a life-threatening condition in both adults and children. Not sure when to go to the ER for dehydration? Call 911 and seek immediate emergency care for these symptoms:

  • Not urinating or urinating small amounts of dark-colored urine
  • Change in alertness or consciousness
  • Dizziness and weakness
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea 
  • Confusion
  • Sunken eyes
  • Muscle cramps
  • Shriveled and dry skin with little elasticity

In infants:

  • Limp body posture
  • Sunken soft spot on top of head (fontanel)
  • Fussiness
  • Excessive sleepiness 

 

What Causes Dehydration?

Dehydration is usually caused by not drinking enough water to replace fluids lost through normal body functions, such as sweating and urinating. By the time you notice you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. 

Situations that can speed up dehydration include:

  • Low humidity and excessive heat 
  • Drinking alcohol
  • High elevation
  • Extra sweating and activity
  • Vomiting or diarrhea from stomach upset or stomach flu 

Conditions that cause the body to lose too much water can also lead to dehydration, including:

  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Treatment with diuretics to reduce fluid buildup or to lower blood pressure (for heart failure)
  • Morning sickness during pregnancy

 

Dehydration Symptoms

In adults with mild to moderate dehydration, you may notice:

  • Headache, the most common symptom
  • Thirst
  • Not urinating as often as you normally do or producing less urine
  • Dizziness
  • Sticky and dry mouth and lips, including your gums and tongue
  • Fatigue and sluggishness 

Infants with dehydration may have fewer tears than normal and no wet diapers for several hours.

 

Dehydration Treatment at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican

You can treat mild to moderate dehydration in adults and older children by sipping drinks that contain electrolytes (such as potassium and sodium) or water. In young children and infants, an oral rehydrating solution that includes electrolytes is a common treatment. 

Some cases of moderate dehydration and severe dehydration require hospitalization. You will receive intravenous (IV) fluids directly into your bloodstream. Your health care providers will run tests and monitor you closely for signs of complications, such as kidney problems.

You can prevent dehydration by drinking several 8-ounce glasses of fluids containing electrolytes and water every day. Drink more if you’re in a hot, dry climate, at a high elevation, or are exercising. 

Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican provides treatment for dehydration in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV.