Staying hydrated is very important during summer when the sun hits its usual heat peak. Summer is also when dehydration is common. But aside from constantly reminding yourself to drink more water and stay hydrated, it is also essential that you know the signs of dehydration.

By knowing these signs, you will become more aware of your health and others too.

If you experience the following signs of dehydration or know someone who does, make sure to replenish them as soon as possible.

Sign #1 Thirst
This is probably the most obvious sign of dehydration and the first signal for you to drink more water. However, please know that when we age, our sense of thirst also deteriorates. So, older people may be already dehydrated but don’t feel thirsty which is why you must know all other signs of dehydration.

Sign #2 Headache or Migraine
Dehydration can cause headaches and severe migraines. Your brain is composed of water and if you’re dehydrated, your brain can shrink and pull a little away from the skull which causes headaches and even severe migraine. So, make sure to drink your water so your brain can go back to its normal size and ease the pain.

Sign #3 Fatigue
Dehydration can cause body tension and fatigue which is why when you exercise and are not well-hydrated, your performance declines. And instead of packing your body with energy, you’ll only be adding more tension and stress to your body. So, make sure to fuel your body right with good food and well hydration every day especially when doing exercise or any rigorous activity.

Sign #4 Muscle Cramps
Muscle contraction or spasm usually happens when you lose too much fluid and sodium from your body when sweating. To prevent muscle cramps and spasms, you have to drink enough water and fluid to replenish fluid and sodium in your body. if you know that you’re going to sweat more or do physical activities, make sure to pack yourself with fluid and then bring water with you.

Sign #5 Change of urine color
This is also one of the easiest ways to determine whether you are dehydrated or not. If you notice that your urine’s color has turned to a yellow or darker color, then that is a strong sign that you are dehydrated and an alert to replenish yourself with water right away. The goal is to keep your urine as clear as possible.

Sign #6 Skin Test
To test whether you are dehydrated or not, you can try to pinch your skin. When you are dehydrated, your skin’s ability to go back to its normal shape when pinched decreases. When you’re hydrated, your skin should be able to go back to its normal shape right away when pinched. if it doesn’t then that’s a clear sign that you are dehydrated.

Sign #7 Drop in blood pressure
Dehydration can also cause to drop in your blood pressure which can result in nausea and feeling light-headed. Your blood volume decreases due to dehydration which also decreases the pressure on your artery walls and this can result in low blood pressure.

You already know how important it is to keep yourself hydrated and that it should be an integral part of your health habits.

That is why, to monitor yourself closely, you must know these signs so you can keep track of yourself and also other people.