How to Assess Dehydration in the Wilderness

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(6 Ratings)

People often overlook dehydration as a cause of illness or injury because the symptoms mimic those of many other illnesses. Be vigilant for the signs of dehydration and treat early.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Bottled Water

Step 1

Prevent dehydration by drinking lots of water - more water than you think you need, and enough to make your urine clear.
Step 2

Check for the early signs of dehydration: thirst, dark urine, cotton mouth, irritability, fatigue.
Step 3

Notice any of these signs of moderate dehydration: a very dry mouth; little urine, which is dark or bright yellow; rapid and weak pulse; dizziness; loss of balance.
Step 4

Look for any of these signs of severe dehydration: rapid pulse, pale and sweaty skin, nausea, changes in level of consciousness, "tenting" of the skin when it's pinched, swollen tongue, slurred speech, impaired vision.
Step 5

Treat immediately if you suspect mild or moderate dehydration by drinking water until the urine turns clear and symptoms disappear.
Step 6

Get to a hospital immediately if you suspect severe dehydration.