How to fight this week’s heat wave? Stay hydrated! Watch out for 7 signs of dehydration
It may not officially be summer, but many parts of the country are already seeing soaring temperatures.
And now, a heat wave is expected to hit the region, making it even more important to stay hydrated.
“Dehydration is both the beginning and part of the spectrum of heat-related illness. Dehydration means loss of sufficient body fluid levels,” said Dr. Christopher Bazzoli, emergency medicine physician for Cleveland Clinic. “You can think of body water content as the motor oil of the body. You need enough of it to make everything function just as it should.”
Dr. Bazzoli said signs of dehydration can include:
- headache
- tiredness
- dizziness
- dry mouth
- dark-colored urine
- flushed skin
- muscle cramps
In severe cases, it can lead to heatstroke, kidney failure or even death.
Anyone can get dehydrated, but children and the elderly tend to be more vulnerable.
Dr. Bazzoli said when a person sweats from the heat, they’re losing more than just water.
They’re also losing electrolytes and minerals, which are needed for our nervous system, heart and muscles.
“If you’re starting to feel thirsty, you’re already probably about a liter or so dehydrated and behind. Thirst is one of our first signals to trigger us that we need to try to catch up,” he said. “And if you’re dehydrated in that rehydration process, trying to get to a cooler, shaded area and out of the heat will help.”
He said it’s best to drink mostly water to stay hydrated, with some rehydration drinks to supplement.
You should also avoid sugary juice drinks, sodas, coffee and tea.
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This story was originally published June 17, 2024 at 6:00 AM.