Silent dehydration: how to identify it before it becomes serious

Dehydration is a common condition that occurs when the body does not have adequate fluid levels, often due to inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating or health problems such as vomiting, fever or diarrhea. Although many people recognize and resolve the symptoms of dehydration in time, some may experience silent dehydration, where the signs are less obvious. This can be particularly concerning if not identified and treated promptly, as it can lead to more serious health complications.

In interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr B. Ravinder Reddy, Senior General and Gastrointestinal Surgeon, CARE Hospital – Institute of Medical Sciences, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telanganaclarifies what silent dehydration is and how to identify it in time, before it becomes serious.

Also read: Dehydration: signs that you are not drinking enough water

What is silent dehydration?

Dr. Reddy describes silent dehydration as a condition in which the body loses more fluids and electrolytes than it takes in, often without obvious symptoms that would prompt immediate action, and therefore remains unrecognized.

According to him, the condition is particularly “insidious” as it can occur during vigorous daily activities or mild non-diarrheal illnesses such as fever, respiratory infections, or in hot, humid climates such as those found in India.

It is crucial to note that silent dehydration is prevalent among certain groups of people. This includes children, the elderly, diabetics and pregnant women.

Research suggests that the elderly population is around 20-30% more likely to develop dehydration due to immobility, poor thirst mechanisms, diabetes, kidney disease and falls.

Why is early detection crucial?

Dr. Reddy emphasizes the importance of detecting silent dehydration early because it can harm overall health, performance and well-being, often without obvious warning signs.

“Dehydration affects fluid and electrolyte balance and essential bodily functions such as temperature regulation, cardiovascular efficiency, muscle function and cognitive performance,” he explains, adding that when the body is dehydrated, even slightly, it can lead to a reduction in physical activity. . activity and cognitive performance, making everyday activities more challenging.

He further notes that without adequate fluids and electrolytes, the body’s ability to function optimally can be compromised, leading to several health problems.

For example, during fever, dehydration may occur due to increased insensible (invisible) fluid losses through sweating and breathing. Each degree Celsius increase in temperature above 39°C (102°F) in adults can lead to a 25% increase in fluid losses through sweating and respiration. This can result in the loss of up to 1,000 ml of fluid in 24 hours for every degree Celsius increase beyond 39°C. This fluid loss, when combined with reduced food and fluid intake due to loss of appetite, can lead to electrolyte and energy deficits, which prolong the recovery period.

Also read: Why Dehydration Causes Heart Palpitations: Understanding the Link

Signs of silent dehydration to watch out for

Some of the common symptoms of silent dehydration may include:

• Fatigue
• Thirst
• Dry skin and dry lips
• Dark urine or decreased urination
• Headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Dizziness
• Constipation

According to Dr. Reddy, in children and the elderly, dehydration can be particularly difficult to assess, but signs such as poor skin elasticity, weight changes, dark-colored urine, dry tongue and reduced urination frequency can be indicative. If such characteristics or signs are observed, especially in children, it is important to seek medical attention.

How to hydrate your body (besides drinking water)

In general, experts advise drinking eight glasses of water every day to stay hydrated. However, Dr. Reddy suggests that it may not be sufficient or necessary for everyone.

“The Indian Expert Panel emphasizes that pure water, although crucial, may not always be sufficient to resolve fluid electrolyte energy deficits in non-diarrheal conditions due to lack of electrolytes and energy as well as due to taste fatigue, the which leads to poor adherence,” he shares, adding that water alone does not provide the electrolytes needed to maintain fluid balance in the body.

Furthermore, since body fluids contain electrolytes, dehydrated individuals will always lose electrolytes like sodium, potassium, etc. along with water.

So what can you do to properly hydrate your body?

For diarrheal conditions, electrolytes can be replenished with ORS from WHO. For non-diarrheal conditions, electrolyte energy drinks play an important role in recovery.

“In my practice, I advise patients to stay hydrated by not only drinking plenty of water, but also considering ready-to-serve electrolyte drinks, given their known concentration of electrolytes and energy, as well as convenience. These options ensure that individuals suffering from silent dehydration receive a balanced intake of essential fluids and electrolytes, which is crucial for maintaining normal bodily functions and general health”, highlights the doctor.