We all know that staying hydrated is essential– but sometimes, drinking water just isn’t enough. Whether it’s due to illness, heat exhaustion, or intense physical activity, your body can lose fluids and electrolytes faster than you can replace them. When that happens, you may need more than just a bottle of water. You may need IV fluids to restore balance and feel better fast. Here’s how to recognize the signs that your body is severely dehydrated and when to seek treatment at urgent care.
For same-day dehydration treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Broadway. Our center is open 7 days a week and always accepts walk-in patients. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, simply schedule below!
Understanding IV Fluids
IV (intravenous) fluids are a mixture of sterile water, electrolytes, and sometimes glucose that are administered directly into your bloodstream through a small catheter in your arm. This method bypasses the digestive system, allowing your body to absorb fluids immediately– which is especially helpful if you’re unable to keep liquids down or need rapid rehydration. Urgent care centers often provide IV hydration therapy for patients who are moderately dehydrated, helping them recover safely without going to the ER.
IV fluids are most often needed when dehydration results from:
- Stomach viruses that cause ongoing vomiting or diarrhea
- Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- Strenuous exercise, especially in hot weather
- Fever, which increases fluid loss through sweat
- Excessive alcohol use
- Chronic illness or medications that cause fluid loss
Knowing what causes dehydration is helpful, but recognizing when it’s progressed far enough to require medical intervention is key.
Signs You May Need IV Fluids
Not all dehydration requires IV treatment, but when symptoms become more intense or you can’t replenish fluids on your own, IV fluids can be the fastest and most effective solution. Here are signs that you need IV hydration:
1. You Can’t Keep Fluids Down
If you’re vomiting frequently or have severe nausea that makes it hard to drink water or electrolyte drinks, you’re likely losing more fluids than you’re taking in. IV fluids bypass the digestive system and deliver hydration directly into your bloodstream.
2. You Feel Lightheaded or Dizzy
Dizziness, especially when standing up, is a common sign of dehydration. If rest and drinking fluids haven’t helped– or if the dizziness is persistent– you may need IV fluids to stabilize your blood pressure and hydration levels.
3. Your Urine Is Very Dark or Minimal
Urine color and output are strong indicators of hydration. If your urine is dark amber or you’re urinating very infrequently (or not at all), it may be time for medical rehydration.
4. You Have a Rapid Heartbeat or Low Blood Pressure
Dehydration affects circulation. If your heart is racing, you feel faint, or your blood pressure is low, you may be experiencing more severe dehydration that requires medical attention.
Get Walk-In Dehydration Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Broadway
Dehydration can sneak up on you. When it does, fast and effective treatment matters. If you’re struggling to drink enough fluids, feeling dizzy or weak, or showing signs of more severe dehydration, don’t wait it out. IV hydration at urgent care is a safe, convenient way to restore balance and feel better quickly– without the high cost or long wait times of the ER. At AFC Urgent Care Broadway, we offer on-site IV fluids, expert care, and walk-in visits seven days a week. Stop by today! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (720) 457-9100.
