Lack of hydration may be leading to commons symptoms such as tiredness and headaches, an expert has warned. The NHS recommends that adults aim for between six and eight glasses of fluids per day, which can include water, tea coffee, juice, milk and sugar free beverages.
Higher water intake may be needed on hot days, during physical activity and if you are ill, pregnant or breastfeeding. But a survey by LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor found 56% of 1,000 people did not think they drank enough each day. GP Dr Neel Patel warned that dehydration can cause a range of symptoms. These include:
Tiredness
Dehydration can contribute to fatigue by making it harder for your heart to pump blood and oxygen around the body, and affecting brain function.
Dr Patel said: “When the body loses more fluids than it takes in, dehydration can set in causing increased drowsiness and confusion.
“Serious dehydration can lead to seizures from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, as well as kidney stones and urinary tract infections.”
Constipation
Fibre is commonly known to be a vital component for healthy digestion but drinking enough fluid is also crucial.
Dr Patel said: “Fluid encourages the passing of waste through the digestive system but also helps the body to better digest the key minerals and nutrients from food.”
Low blood pressure:
“Approximately half of our blood is made up from water, meaning that severe dehydration can cause problems in your heart and other organs,” Dr Patel said.
“Dehydration causes less blood to travel around the body, leading to low pressure, which can lead to dizziness and fainting.”
Migraines
Dehydration can cause bodily tissues to shrink. When the brain shrinks, it pulls away from the skull, putting pressure on nerves.
Dr Patel said: “Dehydration is also a contributing factor to some headaches and migraines, especially tension-type, often making them worse.
“The pain can range from mild to severe, and may feel like a dull ache, throbbing, or sharp pain.”
How can you increase your daily water intake?
Dr Patel’s advice for drinking more water includes investing in a water bottle to help you keep track of daily progress.
Adding flavour to tap water can make it more enjoyable and eating fruit and vegetables with a high water content, such as watermelons and oranges, can also help.
Dr Patel also suggested setting regular reminders on your phone to distribute fluid intake throughout the day, aiming for around one glass of water every two hours. But avoid drinks that are high in sugar as these may be high in calories and damage your teeth.