•  Severe thirst (sometimes).

•  Sunken and dry eyes. Tearless eyes. (Infants may not show this sign.)

•  Dry mouth, tongue, and lips.

•  No urine or a low amount of urine that is dark yellow.

•  Sunken fontanelle (the soft spot on an infant’s head).

•  Headache. Feeling lightheaded, especially when getting up quickly.

•  Dry skin that doesn’t spring back when pinched.

•  Feeling dizzy. Confusion. Severe weakness.

•  Increase in breathing and heart rate.

•  The body does not get enough fluids for it’s needs.

•  Too much water or other body fluids and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are lost. This can result from: Repeated episodes of diarrhea and/or vomiting; heavy sweating; heat exhaustion; or heat stroke.

•  If vomiting isn’t present, adults and children over age 12 should drink about 2 cups of fluid per hour. Fluids of choice are: Sports drinks; flat cola; clear sodas; broths; popsicles; and gelatin.

•  If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or a history of stroke, you should find out what fluids your doctor prefers you take when you need to replace lost fluids.

•  For children under 2 years old, consult your child’s doctor about the amount and type of fluid to give. Ask your child’s doctor about using over-the-counter products that give fluid and electrolytes. Examples are Pedialyte and Infalyte.

•  For children over 2 years old, give up to 1-1/2 quarts of fluid per day.