The evaluation of dehydration begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in adults, children, and infants with dehydration may include:

• Dark urine
• Decreased urination
• Dry eyes
• Dry or chapped lips
• Dry mouth
• High fever
• Low blood pressure
• Pale, dry skin
• Rapid pulse
• Sunken eyes
• Confusion
• Lethargy:
• A condition of excessive sleepiness or drowsiness.

Additional signs of dehydration in infants include:

• Dry mouth
• Dry diapers:
• Decreased urination
• Lack of tears
• Sunken soft spot on the head
• Unusual sleepiness
• Weight loss

Testing may be necessary to determine the cause, or the determine the severity, of dehydration.

Tests that may be used to evaluate dehydration include:

• Complete blood count
• Kidney profile:
• Measures glucose, electrolytes and kidney function
• Urinalysis