Diarrhea, the uninvited party guest that seems to visit everyone at least once (or more), can be triggered by a variety of villains from bacteria, viruses, parasites, certain foods, to some medications. Sometimes, it’s a red flag for a more severe health issue like a digestive disorder. Thankfully, in most cases, it takes its leave in a few days without causing major upheaval.

Severe or frequent diarrhea, however, is cause for concern. If left unattended, it can lead to dehydration, a cunning adversary with its own set of crippling health hazards.

So, who’s first in line to fall prey to dehydration? Anyone, really. Still, the young, the elderly, and those whose immune systems are already in a duel with other illness nemeses are more susceptible.

The signs of impending doom due to dehydration are quite a list, with highlights including excessive thirst, infrequent urination, dark-colored urine, the mouth emulating a desert, kinky skin, fatigue, sunken features, and in severe cases - lightheadedness or fainting.

For minors, parents need to keep an eye out for signs like lack of wet diapers for three hours, lethargy, irritability, and an unusually dry cry.

Dehydration varies in its severity and branches into a load of complications such as depleted electrolyte levels, seizures, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and the loss of kidney function. In extreme scenarios, dehydration can inflict stress on your heart and lungs leading to shock - potentially fatal.

To strike back at dehydration, guzzling down water and gnawing ice cubes might seem the go-to method. However, these alone are about as effective as a pea shooter against an ogre – you need electrolytes too - sodium, potassium, the whole gang. Fruit juices, sports drinks, and soups with clear broth can help regain lost electrolytes but beware of the sugar and artificial sweetener content since they can fan the flames of your diarrhea chaos.

For children, particularly, a pediatrician's advice is vital in treating diarrhea and thwarting dehydration. For severe dehydration, you might need intravenous therapy (IV) – fairly dramatic but effective.

Thankfully, if dealt with swiftly, dehydration victims should make a full recovery.

Preventing dehydration means keeping your body quenched at all times - even more so when you're perspiring due to the heat or strenuous activities. A hydrated body has clear urine as a testament to its hydration status – a handy tip!

If you're stuck with a fever, puking, or diarrhea, crank up your fluid intake. Also, scan your family, especially the little ones and grannies - as even minor illnesses can leave them parched.

Ring up your doctor to report potential dehydration before signs surface. For worsening cases or symptoms like unconsciousness, disorientation, seizures, or extreme fever, dialing 911 is imperative to prevent irrevocable damage.