What should you know about dehydration and indigestion?

Indigestion may feel like burning or discomfort in the upper abdomen, early fullness, bloating, belching or nausea. Dehydration may bring thirst, dry mouth, tiredness, dizziness or dark urine. Gastroenteritis can cause vomiting or diarrhoea and lead to dehydration; heat exhaustion, urinary problems and other conditions can also cause fluid loss or abdominal discomfort. See Dehydration and Gastroenteritis for more context.

Take small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Choose light meals when able, and avoid alcohol, very fatty foods and foods that clearly trigger burning. Rest and track whether you are passing urine. If constipation accompanies reduced intake, fluids and gradual fibre may help unless a clinician has advised a restriction.

Get urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, vomit containing blood, black stools, fainting, confusion, inability to keep fluids down, or very little urine. Arrange medical assessment when symptoms keep returning, dehydration signs persist, or urinary changes such as cloudy or dark urine occur with pain or fever.

Ask whether a medicine, reflux problem, infection or another condition could explain the symptoms. Tell the clinician about vomiting, bowel changes, urine colour, food triggers and any recent heat exposure.