By the time a person becomes severely dehydrated, there is no longer enough fluid in the body to carry enough blood to vital organs. Shock, which is a life-threatening condition, can develop quickly.
A severely dehydrated person may not be able to cooperate or communicate.
Symptoms of severe dehydration (even if only one of them is present) include:
- Altered behavior, such as severe anxiety, confusion, or not being able to stay awake.
- Faintness that is not relieved by lying down, or lightheadedness that continues after standing for 2 minutes.
- Inability to stand or walk.
- Rapid breathing.
- Weak, rapid pulse.
- Cold, clammy skin or hot, dry skin.
- Little or no urine for 12 hours or longer.
- Loss of consciousness.
Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and requires emergency treatment. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Last Updated: July 6, 2007 | |
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