Dehydration is a condition where the human body lacks a sufficient volume of water to maintain homeostasis and normal function. It occurs in situations where the consumption of water is not adequate in order to meet bodily water loss through things for example urination, sweating or diarrhea.

 

Water is essential to human health and wellness. Dehydration can even be caused by increased urination, throwing up, and diarrhea. In these conditions the body often loses water much more rapidly than it can be replaced.

 

You will discover three widely accepted stages connected with dehydration. Each stage examines water loss depending on a percentage of excess body weight. In mild dehydration the patient experiences a three to five percent loss in body weight. Moderate dehydration is characterized by losing 6 to 9% of body weight, while severe dehydration involves a loss of 10% or more of body weight.

Many Chiropractic patients experience symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration. Some of these include:

1. Headaches, dizziness and light-headedness
2. Thirst
3. Dry mouth
4. Dry eyes
5. Muscle cramping and muscle pain
6. Muscle spasms
7. Dry skin
8. Weakness

Many patients initially consult with a Doctor of Chiropractic because they are experiencing headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, weakness, back pain, or muscle spasms; all of which are also common symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration. Dehydration has also been associated with impaired cognitive function.