Pinching your skin to check dehydration

To try it, gently lift a small fold of skin on the back of the hand or another area, then release it. Skin that stays raised briefly may reflect reduced elasticity, but age, sun exposure, body composition and skin conditions can change the result. A quick return does not rule out dehydration. Dehydration develops when fluid loss exceeds intake, including after diarrhoea or vomiting, heat exposure, fever or reduced drinking.

If you are alert and can drink, take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink, especially after fluid loss. Rest somewhere cool and replace fluids gradually. Notice thirst, dry mouth, dizziness when standing, reduced urination and dark urine. Do not rely on urine colour alone, and do not force large amounts quickly if you are vomiting. Children, older adults and people with kidney or heart conditions may need tailored advice.

Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, extreme weakness, inability to drink, very little urine, rapid breathing, severe abdominal pain or signs of heat illness. Seek prompt assessment when vomiting or diarrhoea continues, urine becomes persistently dark, or dizziness does not improve with rest and fluids. A clinician can assess circulation and the cause rather than relying on the skin test.

Ask whether your fluid replacement plan suits your age and medical conditions, what symptoms indicate worsening dehydration, and whether vomiting, diarrhoea, heat exposure or a urinary problem could be responsible. Mention any medicines that affect urination.