nadequate consumption of liquids, essential for the proper functioning and health of the body. Some amount of water is excreted from the body through sweat, urine, stools, and tears on a daily basis, but when this loss becomes extreme, the body becomes mildly dehydrated. This condition can be improved upon by drinking lots of water and eating fruits and vegetables high in water content. However, when ignored for a longer period, dehydration increases the risk of numerous different medical conditions, which can be life-threatening. As such, treating dehydration at the right time is vital to protect yourself from these harmful effects. Check out the several side effects of dehydration as you browse through the following text.

Side Effects of Dehydration

Dry Mouth
The first and one of the most common side effects of dehydration is the sense of thirst and a dry mouth. The oral mucous membranes and tongue turn dry, giving a sticky appearance. 

For the cells of the human body to function properly, it is essential to drink sufficient water. In the absence of adequate water supply, dehydration affects the entire body, thereby making it weak and less energetic. As such, a person suffering from dehydration may complain of less endurance and tiredness. Lethargy, sleepiness, and irritation are the most common side effects noted in infants and children affected by moderate to severe dehydration. The best sign to spot dehydration in this age group is the dark circles under eyes and lack of tears. 

People suffering from mild to moderate dehydration often complain of severe headaches due to insufficient supply of water to the body. This can be cured by drinking several gallons of water. For, if the dehydration is not addressed on time, it can diminish eye sight, and negatively affect memory and thinking abilities. 

Just like thirst, hunger is another sign of dehydration when you consume less amount of water. It is through thirst and hunger sensations that your body signals its need for water. Consume fruits, vegetables, and soups to combat dehydration and supply your body with the required amount of fluids. 

Less Urine
A reduction in the output of urine is another major signal for moderate to severe dehydration. Researches indicate that infants who wet less than six diapers a day and teenagers who do not urinate for eight hours or more are suffering from severe dehydration and require immediate treatment. Help them increase their fluid intake and if they are unable to drink or eat properly, consult a doctor. Normally, urine is clear and very light yellow in color. However, in case of dehydration, it is dark, strong smelling, and comes with burning sensations, which serve as a sure-shot symptom. 

Low Blood Pressure
A drop in the blood pressure is another important and harmful side effect of moderate to severe dehydration. Since your body is not supplied with enough fluids, the amount of blood circulating decreases, thereby resulting in low blood pressure. You are likely to feel dizzy the moment you stand up. 

All the systems of the body are highly disturbed when not supplied with enough water and fluids. When there is insufficient water, the passage through which water vapor moves out of the body is closed. This leads to a complicated condition that results in the development of asthma. This problem is generally found in people suffering from dehydration for longer durations. 

Tachycardia is a medical condition that causes an increase in the heart rate. This occurs in people with moderate to severe dehydration. When the body does not receive enough fluids, it causes the heart to beat rapidly to balance out the blood pressure. To repair this problem, it is significant to provide your body with lots of fluids. However, if the person in unable to consume liquids, consult a doctor on urgent basis. 

It is best to drink adequate amount of water to prevent dehydration and allow the body to function properly. If any of the above side effects occur, practice proper treatment and live a healthy life.