Dehydration is a serious condition which can lead to a number of complications — or death — if left untreated. Know the signs of dehydration, and get medical help for anyone in danger.

In the early stages of dehydration, there are no signs or symptoms. Mouth dryness and thirst can indicate early dehydration.

Symptoms of early or mild dehydration include:

• flushed face
• extreme thirst, more than normal or unable to drink
• dry, warm skin
• cannot pass urine or reduced amounts that are dark or yellow
• dizziness made worse by standing
• weakness
• cramping in the arms and legs
• crying with few or no tears
• sleepy or irritable
• restless or irritable behavior
• sunken eyes
• headaches
• dry mouth and tongue, with thick saliva

Symptoms of moderate to severe dehydration include:

• diminished consciousness
• lack of urine
• cool, moist extremities
• rapid and deep breathing - faster than normal
• fast, weak pulse
• low or undetectable blood pressure
• fainting
• severe muscle contractions in the arms, legs, stomach, and back
• convulsions
• bloated stomach
• sunken dry eyes, with few or no tears
• skin loses firmness and looks wrinkled
• lack of skin elasticity — pinched skin takes a long time to go back to its normal position