Dehydration is when there is not an adequate amount of water in the body. Most people think that dehydration has to be severe before they worry about dehydration. No! There is mild dehydation, moderate dehydation and severe dehydration. Most TMJ patients have mild to moderate dehydation and suffer with TMJ headaches as a result of the dehydration.
Water is essential to life. You can live six weeks without food, but no more than a week without water. Humans need a minimum of 32 ounces of water every day. The body is composed of about 70 % water. When the body does not have enough water ( dehydration ),blood flow to the brain and organs decreases and everything slows down.
Dehydration happens slowly and imperceptibly. Most patients who are experiencing dehydration do not know that they are dehydration. The body often confuses the dehydration for hunger and the patient experiencing dehydration will often eat too much instead of drinking water.
Dry
mouth Dry
or sticky tongue Thick
saliva
Dry
lips Bad breath Dry or sticky
oral mucous membranes
Pale
pink, greyish pink or even blue oral tissues
Headache
Muscle
cramps Fatigue
Anxiety
Irritability
Sleepiness
Increased
Appetite Decreased
urine Darken
yellow urine
Pale
dull skin Constipation
Light
headedness/dizziness
Low
blood pressure Rapid heart
rate Sunken
eyes
Nausea
Loss of appetite ( some patients respond differently )
If you are having dental problems and would like to consult with a dentist, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.