The best indicator of fluid loss is body weight changes and fluctuations in daily weight.
Monitoring of daily weight fluctuations consistently on a standardized scale is crucial when monitoring for fluid loss.
Weight loss can signify fluid deficits and weight gain can indicate excess fluid.
A weight loss of 2 percent or more can indicate you have dehydration or impending dehydration.
And other indicators of fluid loss include vital signs such as heart rate that exceeds 90 bpm "tachycardia" and a systolic blood pressure reading that is below 100 mm Hg.
A declining systolic blood pressure that is below 100 mm Hg is a concerning finding that is often associated with tachycardia and can also indicate a fluid deficit.
And tachycardia which is a rapid heart rate can be a compensatory physiological response to hypovolemia which is low blood volume and can be an early sign of compensated hypovolemic shock.
Other signs of fluid loss include a reduced urine output "oliguria" and dark colored urine which are also indicative of dehydration.
Poor skin turgor which is the skin's ability to return to it's original shape after it's been pinched can also suggest and mean fluid loss.
Extreme thirst, fatigue, dizziness and confusion can also be signs of fluid loss.
And a delayed capillary refill time which is when blood returns to your fingertips after they are pressed can indicate you have moderate dehydration.