7 Unusual Signs of Dehydration You Should Know About
When we think of dehydration, the first signs that probably come to mind are thirst and dark-colored urine. But dehydration can sneak up on you in more subtle and surprising ways. While you may be sipping on water throughout the day, your body might still be crying out for hydration in ways you wouldn’t expect. Here’s a rundown of some unusual signs of dehydration that you should definitely be aware of.
You Might Experience Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away Easily
Bad breath isn’t just about what you ate for lunch. It can be a sign your body is running low on water. When you’re dehydrated, your body produces less saliva, which is essential for cleaning your mouth. Saliva naturally helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, so when it’s in short supply, your mouth can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to persistent bad breath. In fact, as pointed out by the Mayo Clinic, this is actually the same reason you always wake up with morning breath because of a decrease in saliva production during sleep. If you notice that your breath is consistently off, despite brushing and flossing, it might be time to increase your water intake.
You Can Feel Sudden Cravings for Sugary Foods
If you find yourself craving sugary snacks out of nowhere, your body might not be hungry—it might be thirsty. Dehydration can make it difficult for your body to access its glucose stores, which can cause you to crave sugar as a quick energy source. So, before reaching for that candy bar, try drinking a glass of water first. If the craving fades, it was probably your body’s way of asking for hydration, not sugar.
You May Notice Your Skin Losing Its Elasticity
You’ve probably heard that your skin can look dry and dull when you’re dehydrated, but it can also become less elastic. A quick test: Gently pinch the skin on the back of your hand. If it doesn’t snap back quickly, it might be a sign that your skin—and your body—needs more water. Healthy skin should be elastic and bounce back right away, so this can be an easy, if unexpected, way to gauge your hydration levels.
You Could Feel Lightheaded When Standing Up Quickly
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up too quickly is something most of us have experienced at one point or another. But if it’s happening often, it might be due to dehydration. When you’re dehydrated, your blood volume decreases, which means less blood (and oxygen) gets to your brain when you change positions suddenly. This can cause a brief drop in blood pressure, thus leading to a dizzy, lightheaded feeling. If this sounds familiar, consider it a sign that your body is calling for more fluids.
You Can Have Muscle Cramps During or After Exercise
Muscle cramps are often associated with overexertion during exercise, but dehydration can also play a significant role. As MedlinePlus points out, even mild dehydration may potentially cause muscle cramps. When you’re low on fluids, your body struggles to maintain a balance of electrolytes, which are crucial for muscle function. This imbalance can lead to painful, involuntary muscle contractions. Consequently, if you’re experiencing cramps more frequently than usual, especially during or after physical activity, it’s a good idea to up your water intake and replenish those electrolytes.
You Might Feel Fatigued Even After a Good Night’s Sleep
If you’re getting enough sleep but still feel exhausted during the day, dehydration could be to blame. Water is essential for many of the body’s functions, including maintaining your energy levels. When you’re dehydrated, your heart has to function harder to pump blood, which can make you feel more tired than usual. Additionally, dehydration can slow down the flow of oxygen to your brain, leaving you feeling sluggish and fatigued. Hence, if you’re feeling wiped out despite clocking in your 8 hours, try drinking more water to see if it makes a difference.
You Can Have Unexplained Mood Swings and Irritability
It might sound strange, but dehydration can have a direct impact on your mood. When your body is low on water, it can affect your brain’s ability to function properly, leading to feelings of confusion, irritability, and even anxiety. According to a study, mild dehydration can significantly impact your mood and cognitive function. So, if you’re feeling unusually grumpy or anxious, it might not just be stress—your body could be crying out for some hydration.
Conclusion
Dehydration isn’t just about feeling thirsty or having dry skin—it can manifest in ways that might surprise you. From bad breath to mood swings, your body has its own unique ways of signaling that it needs more water. The next time you experience any of these unusual signs, try reaching for a glass of water before jumping to conclusions.
