When does dehydration become dangerous?
Some cases of dehydration are minor, and these can be resolved by drinking ample amounts of water. Severe cases of dehydration, however, often require more complex treatment.
If you experience any of the following symptoms of dehydration, it’s a good idea to seek medical treatment immediately:
- Inability to hold down fluids
- Excess vomiting and diarrhea
- Low blood pressure
- Seizures
- Fever
- Fast, weak pulse
- Spasms in the legs or arms
If dehydration symptoms have reached this point, IV fluids are the fastest way to relieve symptoms and rehydrate the body. That’s why it’s so important to seek medical attention instead of merely reaching for water or other fluids.
If left untreated
Dehydration can be deadly if left untreated. Extended periods of dehydration can lead to seizures, urinary and kidney problems, and hypovolemic shock (low blood volume). Your body relies on water to function at every level, so if you can’t drink fluids on your own or have other symptoms of severe dehydration, it might be time to seek medical intervention. Get in touch with DispatchHealth to treat dehydration before it escalates into something worse.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Phil Mitchell MD, MS on July 24th, 2019
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