How to Assess Dehydration in the Wilderness

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

6. Get to a hospital immediately if you suspect severe dehydration.

Tips & Warnings

• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.