Are you dehydrated?

The following are symptoms of dehydration, starting with the most common through to the more severe ones:

• Headaches.
• Poor concentration/fatigue.
• Constipation.
• Reduced/dark urine.
• Furry tongue/bad breath – if not enough fluid is passing through the mouth to wash away food particles, bacteria builds up in the throat and mouth, and on the tongue as a white film or fur.
• Dry mouth – saliva lubricates the mouth, dehydration reduces the amount available.
• Muscle cramps – this happens when not enough oxygen is getting to the muscles via the bloodstream because of insufficient water in the body.
• Skin – if there is not enough water to feed the skin, it loses elasticity. Test by pulling the skin on the back of your hand; it should snap back instantly.
• Eyes – sunken eyes and dark skin around/under the eyes are a sign of severe dehydration.
• Water retention … The less water you drink, the more your body will try to store water for later use. This will result in water retention as the body swells with their precious water stores, giving the appearance of “extra weight”.

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Please note that the tips and suggestions contained on
this web site are NOT an alternative to sound medical
advice. When in ANY doubt, consult your doctor.

Are you dehydrated?

The following are symptoms of dehydration, starting with the most common through to the more severe ones:

• Headaches.
• Poor concentration/fatigue.
• Constipation.
• Reduced/dark urine.
• Furry tongue/bad breath – if not enough fluid is passing through the mouth to wash away food particles, bacteria builds up in the throat and mouth, and on the tongue as a white film or fur.
• Dry mouth – saliva lubricates the mouth, dehydration reduces the amount available.
• Muscle cramps – this happens when not enough oxygen is getting to the muscles via the bloodstream because of insufficient water in the body.
• Skin – if there is not enough water to feed the skin, it loses elasticity. Test by pulling the skin on the back of your hand; it should snap back instantly.
• Eyes – sunken eyes and dark skin around/under the eyes are a sign of severe dehydration.
• Water retention … The less water you drink, the more your body will try to store water for later use. This will result in water retention as the body swells with their precious water stores, giving the appearance of “extra weight”.

Join the Health Tip of the Day mailing list. Email:

Readers are most welcome to submit a "tip of the day" for possible publication. If you would like to submit a tip please click here.

Search this website with . . . . . .

Web healthspas.co.za

Please note that the tips and suggestions contained on
this web site are NOT an alternative to sound medical
advice. When in ANY doubt, consult your doctor.