Hydration is about more than having a drink when you feel thirsty. An average adult in Australia loses around 2.5 litres of water a day through normal activities.
Studies show that as you age it can become difficult to stay hydrated and detect dehydration. Learn how to identify the warning signs of dehydration and how to drink enough water each day below.
Important safety notice
Drinking too much water can reduce your blood sodium levels to dangerous levels. Some health conditions may need you to limit your water intake. Seek advice from your health professional before making changes to your daily fluid intake.
Factors that may affect your hydration
Other factors that may affect your hydration include:
- The side effects of some medications
- Diseases such as diabetes
- Excessive sweating
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of blood
Benefits of good hydration
- Increased endurance and lower heart rate during exercise
- Reduced recovery time after exercise
- Improved mood
- Mental clarity
- Improved health
Risks of dehydration
- Falling from having low blood pressure
- Heat injury or heat stroke
- Urinary and kidney problems
- Low blood volume shock
- Delirium or psychosis
- Seizures
- In extreme cases, death
Warning signs of dehydration
Some early warning signs of dehydration include:
- Feeling thirsty or having a dry mouth
- Not passing enough urine
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
Other signs and symptoms of dehydration can include:
- Having cracked lips
- Dark coloured urine
- Deep or rapid breathing
- Forgetfulness or confusion
- High heart rate or low blood pressure
- Dry or sticky mucus around your mouth
- Having a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
