Dehydration?

How can a person tell if they're dehydrated or becoming dehydrated?  I've always had trouble getting enough fluid in but I have been working hard to keep up.  I always fall short.  Since my surgery I know I drink at least double what I've ever done in the past but getting 50 oz. in per day is an accomplishment for me.  I'm not feeling so great the past few days but I can't tell if I'm becoming dehydrated or if I'm just having an off time.  I'm doing my best to get fluids in and have gone back to broth, jello and ice pops along with the water.  I can still eat mushie food but it hits like a rock and is not pleasant so I'm not pushing it. I had been tolerating more solid foods with a fair amount of success.  I have an appointment with my surgeon this coming Wednsday and I don't want to cry wolf if what I'm experiencing is normal.  I'm not in pain, I'm not dizzy or light headed.  I am very tired and I feel a bit ill.  I know that one of the signs of dehydration is very concentrated urine but having always had issues with fluid what looks concentrated to one person looks great to me.  (I've done 48 hr. urine studies and boy did I fall short).   I understand how important the fluid intake is and I have been trying to determine my issues and find solutions.  Ex.: One minute Crystal Light tastes great, the next like rotten eggs, I forget to drink and on and on...  Work was my big probelm.  I put a small fridge next to my desk and have bottled water, sf jello, various flavors of crystal light and even diet splash.  Anyway sorry for being so long winded......... I don't feel sick enough to call the doctor but if I am becoming dehydrated I'm not sure what to look for and if there is something I can do before it gets to the point where I need to go get help.  If I do feel dizzy or any of my symptoms get worse I will call the doctor immediately. Thanks, Dominique

Hi Dominique,
If you're having tolerance issues, you should call your doc. Anything that comes up that is a potential problem should get reported to your surgeon asap.

While signs of dehydration include dizziness, rapid heart beat, lethargy, fatigue, you might be having other issues related to your surgery. Don't wait till Wednesday. Call and check in.

Let us know how you're doing.

My two cents.

xox
Amy

For ME PERSONALLY..... I realized I was dehydrated when B.M. was like pushing bricks. But, my dehydration was to a severe level. My dad, who is a paramedic, told me a safe way to detect it is to pinch your hand...and if your skin stays tented....you are dehydrated. dry skin....white and pasty tongue.....dark/strong urine....

Tim, Thank you for your reply.  I'm very glad to hear you're feeling much better. I'm doing my best to get my fluids in.  I don't ever get the two liters in I need but I think I'm doing ok.  I see Dr. Dunnican tomorrow. Dominique