Five Warning Signs Of Dehydration – Recognizing Heat Exhaustion

When engaging in outdoor activities or working in temps of 80 degrees or more, listen to your body. Do you know when you're dehydrated? It's very important to know the symptoms because Dehydration or extreme heat can be a life-or-death situation.

My 12-year old cousin died of heat stroke while cutting grass. He didn't know according to medical experts at Cedar-sinini. Make sure you are drinking sports drinks and water to stay hydrated. Believe it or not, eating salty foods like chips or pretzels is also a good way to deal with heat exhaustion.

Johns Hopkins Medicine says deydration and heat stroke happens when the body can't cool itself down. It's the body's response to the loss of water and salt. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, and possibly death. Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps and others. Treatment includes fluids, removal from the heat, and rest and fluids.

1. Muscle cramps

2. Fast or weak pulse

3. Dizziness

4. Sunken eyes

5. Sweating heavily

Mild dehydration: This causes thirsty, less peeing and sweating, and dry mouth. Children have mild dehydration when they lose 3%-5% of their body weight due to fluid loss. You can treat mild dehydration at home by drinking water, electrolyte drinks, or oral rehydration solutions you can buy at the drugstore.

Moderate dehydration: The symptoms are similar to those of moderate dehydration but are more intense. In children, it means they've lost 6%-10% of their body weight. You'll need a medical professional to give you fluids through an IV.