Dehydration is more common than many people realize, especially during hot weather, illness, or intense physical activity. When your body loses more fluids than it takes in, it can’t function properly– leading to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, and even confusion. But if you or a loved one is showing signs of dehydration, where should you go for treatment– urgent care or the emergency room? Here’s what you need to know about dehydration, how it’s treated, and how to decide where to seek care.
For same-day dehydration treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Englewood. Our center is conveniently located at 901 W Hampden Ave in Englewood, CO. Simply walk in or schedule your visit below.
What Causes Dehydration?
Dehydration can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Vomiting or diarrhea, especially during illness
- Fever
- Excessive sweating due to heat or exercise
- Not drinking enough water, particularly in hot or dry climates
- Certain medications or underlying health conditions
Mild dehydration can often be revered by simply drinking water or electrolyte-replacement fluids. But when symptoms become more severe, medical treatment is necessary.
Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration
Recognizing the symptoms of dehydration early can help you seek care before it becomes more serious. Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on how much fluid has been lost.
Mild to moderate dehydration symptoms may include:
- Thirst
- Dry mouth and lips
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Decreased urination or dark yellow urine
- Fatigue or weakness
Severe dehydration symptoms may include:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Sunken eyes
- Confusion or irritability
- Little or no urination
- Dizziness, fainting, loss of consciousness
Urgent Care or ER For Dehydration: How To Decide
Urgent care is an excellent option for treating mild to moderate dehydration, especially when symptoms are uncomfortable but not life threatening. At urgent care, providers can evaluate your condition and offer oral rehydration solutions and sometimes IV fluids if needed. You should visit urgent care for dehydration if you’ve been vomiting or experiencing diarrhea for more than 24 hours, you’re unable to keep fluids down, you feel lightheaded, or you have signs of dehydration that are not improving with at-home care.
However, if dehydration becomes severe and starts to impact your vital signs or mental state, it’s important to go directly to the emergency room. Anything severe or life-threatening should be treated immediately at the ER.
How Urgent Care Treats Dehydration
At urgent care, treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, vital signs, and medical history. If necessary, your provider may administer IV fluids to quickly restore hydration levels and monitor your response. They can also check for signs of infection or underlying conditions that may be contributing to fluid loss.
After receiving fluids and care, many patients feel noticeably better within an hour. Your provider will also give you instructions for continued hydration and recovery at home, and may recommend follow-up care if needed.
Get Walk-In Dehydration Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Englewood
Dehydration should never be ignored– especially when symptoms become severe. The good news is that most cases of mild to moderate dehydration can be safely and effectively treated at urgent care, without the long wait times or high costs of the ER. At AFC Urgent Care Englewood, we offer fast, walk-in dehydration treatment, including IV fluids, symptom management, and personalized care plans. Come see us today! We’ll help you recover, rehydrate, and feel better.
Our clinic accepts many health insurance plans, and provides cost-effective services for any self-paying patient. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 761-1699.
