What should you know about long term effects of dehydration?

When the body lacks fluid, blood volume falls and the heart may work harder. The kidneys conserve water by making less urine, which can make urine darker and allow minerals to collect, contributing to kidney stones.

Reduced fluid in the bowel can make stools hard and difficult to pass. Ongoing losses from vomiting, diarrhoea, heat exposure, heavy sweating or some medicines can keep dehydration going. Dehydration may occur alongside gastroenteritis or heat exhaustion, so the underlying cause matters.

Take frequent small drinks and include fluids with meals. If vomiting or diarrhoea is causing losses, a pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an oral rehydration solution is suitable. Do not rapidly drink large amounts if you have a condition requiring fluid restriction.

Notice urine colour, thirst, dizziness and bowel changes, and record ongoing fluid losses. Arrange a review if symptoms keep returning; a clinician can look for medication effects, infection or another cause.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, inability to keep fluids down, very little urine, severe weakness, rapid breathing or severe abdominal or back pain.

Get prompt advice after prolonged heat exposure or diarrhoea, and if urine becomes persistently dark, cloudy or painful to pass. These features can signal dehydration or another problem requiring assessment.

Ask what may be causing repeated fluid loss, how much and what type of fluid is appropriate for you, whether medicines need review, and whether kidney or blood tests are needed.