What it is
Babies, young children, older people and people with diabetes or kidney disease are more at risk.
Oral rehydration solutions from a pharmacy replace both water and salts and are useful when there is diarrhoea or vomiting.
Common signs
- Feeling thirsty
- Dark yellow, strong-smelling pee
- Peeing less often
- Dizziness and tiredness
- Dry mouth, lips and eyes
- In babies: a sunken soft spot, few wet nappies, no tears when crying
How it is usually diagnosed
- Recognised from symptoms and examination
- Blood tests for kidney function and salts if severe
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Kidney function and salt (electrolyte) results, if tested
- Hospital discharge summaries
Questions to ask your doctor
- How much should I be drinking?
- Should I pause any of my medicines while I am unwell?
- When should I seek help if it does not improve?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Confusion, fainting, a fast heartbeat, no pee all day, or a baby who is very drowsy or has a sunken soft spot: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.