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Severe dehydration in older children and adults

Severe dehydration means:

  • Your mouth and eyes may be extremely dry.
  • You may pass little or no urine for 12 or more hours.
  • You may not feel alert or be able to think clearly.
  • You may be too weak or dizzy to stand.
  • You may pass out.

Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and requires emergency treatment. Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

By the time a person becomes severely dehydrated, there is no longer enough fluid in the body to carry enough blood to vital organs. Shock, which is a life-threatening condition, can develop quickly.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.