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Key signs of dehydration Brits need to look out for symptoms and prevention

As the UK bakes in the fourth heatwave of the year, it's important to be aware of the signs of dehydration and how to stay hydrated. Here's what you need to know

[Woman suffering from heat stroke or hyperthermia outdoors, holding a cold water bottle on her forehead, heat wave or summer hot weather. Thirsty person casual clothing and refreshment. Extreme weather or climate change in the city]

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Temperatures are continuing to soar(Image: fcafotodigital via Getty Images)

Yet more scorching weather is set to hit the UK this week as the country braces itself for the fourth heatwave of the year. Temperatures could soar to as high as 35C today across south-eastern England, with amber heat health alerts issued across much of the region.

Yellow warnings have also been put in place for the South West, West Midlands and Yorkshire & The Humber.

With the mercury rising sharply, it's vital that people familiarise themselves with the warning signs of dehydration and take steps to prevent it from setting in. Most people know to reach for a glass of water when thirst strikes but feeling thirsty is actually an indicator that dehydration has already taken hold.

[Woman experiencing heat exhaustion after outdoor workout]

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Dehydration can sneak up on you(Image: Getty)

According to the NHS

• feeling thirsty
• headache and feeling light-headed
• dark yellow, strong-smelling pee
• peeing less often than usual
• feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• feeling tired
• a dry mouth, lips and tongue
• sunken eyes

In babies, the signs of dehydration are:

• a sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on top of their head
• sunken eyes
• few or no tears when they cry
• fewer wet nappies than usual
• being drowsy or irritable

[Unrecognizable Parent Checking Temperature of Newborn Baby]

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Babies have different signs of dehydration(Image: Getty)

To avoid becoming dehydrated during hot weather, it's essential to sip water consistently throughout the day rather than simply downing a large glass once a headache kicks in.

For those who struggle to keep up their water intake, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) has a number of handy tips on how to make staying hydrated that little bit easier and more enjoyable.

Many people find it difficult to drink sufficient water, whether due to forgetfulness or simply not being keen on the taste, but ensuring that you and those in your care stay properly hydrated is absolutely essential.

How to drink enough water

One strategy the BHF suggests is establishing reminders to drink water that sound regularly throughout the day to prompt you. You might also develop a routine of consuming a glass of water first thing in the morning, while watching television, or on your journey to work, helping you form a lasting practice.

You can also make it more enjoyable by incorporating natural flavours like a lemon wedge, fresh mint or cucumber slices. Simply purchasing an attractive water bottle and keeping it nearby can motivate you to increase your water intake.

[Latino man sitting on bed, drinking a glass of water in bedroom at home. Attractive young male staying hydrated and enjoying healthy morning routine f]

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Make drinking water part of your daily routines(Image: Getty)

If you're looking after someone else, whether that's a youngster, an elderly individual or someone vulnerable, ensuring they're consuming sufficient water is equally vital.

The NHS advises making certain they have water during mealtimes, or providing them with foods rich in water content. Options such as jellies, melon, and ice cream are all suggested on the NHS website.

For young children and infants, you can continue breastfeeding or providing formula - attempt offering smaller quantities more frequently than normal.

If your baby is aged six months or above and consuming formula or solid food, provide them with tiny sips of water. For infants younger than six months, boil the water beforehand and allow it to cool prior to giving it to them.

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