Thirst lags behind your body’s need for water. So when you are thirsty, you are already in deficit of needed fluid. Avoid alcoholic beverages and beverages high in caffeine content (coffee, tea, sodas) to quench your thirst. They can act as a diuretic and eliminate the body fluid you need.

• Early signs of dehydration include increased thirst, dry mouth and sticky saliva, reduced urine output with dark yellow urine.
• Symptoms of moderate dehydration include extreme thirst, dry appearance inside the mouth and the eyes don't tear, decreased urination, or half the number of urinations in 24 hours (usually 3 or fewer urinations). Urine is dark amber or brown, and lightheadedness that is relieved by lying down.
• Severe dehydration is life-threatening. Symptoms that require emergency care (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 light-headedness that continues after standing for 2 minutes, weak, rapid pulse; cold, clammy skin or hot, dry skin; little or no urination, loss of consciousness (Source: Web MD).

As a general rule, adults should drink approximately 64 ounces of water daily. Actual fluid needs vary depending on such variables as exercise, environment, illnesses or health conditions, or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

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