How to Avoid Dehydration this Summer

When you lose more fluid than you take in, dehydration occurs.  Causes of dehydration range from fever, diarrhea, vomiting and excessive sweating to not taking in enough water during exercise or hot weather.  Those most at risk include the chronically ill, older adults and children.

Infants and children are vulnerable because of their small body weight, their susceptibility to diarrhea and the rate at which they turnover electrolytes and water.  With older adults, their bodies often have a reduced ability to conserve water, and disability is another factor that may lead to decreased fluid intake.

Chronic illnesses such as cystic fibrosis, adrenal gland disorders, alcoholism and kidney disease also make it more likely that someone will become dehydrated.

When a person is only mildly dehydrated, their symptoms will be different than someone who is severely dehydrated.  Mild dehydration symptoms include headache, dry mouth, thirst, dizziness and decreased urination.  Severe dehydration symptoms include, but are not limited to, extreme thirst, lack of sweating, very dry skin and mouth, lack of urination, fever and low blood pressure.

If you are otherwise healthy, mild dehydration can usually be treated by drinking more fluids.  If dizziness, confusion, extreme thirst and more than eight hours without urination are experienced, medical attention should be sought immediately.  Dehydration can become very serious and lead to complications like kidney failure, seizures, brain swelling, heatstroke, heat exhaustion, hypovolemic shock, coma and even death.

Dehydration can be prevented by consuming lots of fluids and foods with high water content such as fruits and vegetables.  If your body is telling you that you are thirsty, be sure to listen. However, if you are exercising, it is best to not wait until you are feeling thirsty to consume adequate fluids.