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Dehydration occurs when our body doesn’t have enough fluid to carry out its normal functions. As it starts to warm up, we all begin to spend more time outside soaking in the sun. While this is an enjoyable time of the year, dehydration may become a factor. Dehydration can occur from several other reasons; this month, we will focus on it as it pertains to outside activities. Dehydration can be cured by drinking more fluids when it comes to a mild to moderate case. If the situation is more serious, immediate medical treatment will be needed if the person is experiencing a severe case. Taking a few preventative measures will help everyone enjoy their time in the sun safely, avoiding a trip to the ER.
Symptoms
Infant or Young Child
- Dry mouth and tongue
- No tears when crying
- No wet diapers for three hours
- Sunken eyes, cheeks
- Sunken soft spot on top of skull
- Listlessness or irritability
Adult
- Extreme thirst
- Less frequent urination
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Dry mouth, lethargy, weakness in muscles, headache, dizziness
How to Avoid Dehydration?
- Eat foods with high amounts of water like fruits and vegetables
- Try to go out during the cooler parts of the day
- Take breaks from the sun
- Bring an umbrella to block the sun
- Dress appropriately
- Dress in light, cool clothing and wear hats
- Stay Hydrated
- Since dehydration happens when you don’t have enough fluids in your body, make sure to drink plenty of water. Make sure you stay ahead of the game by drinking water even when you are not thirsty. It is recommended to drink at least six to eight cups of fluids a day. Of course, if you can drink more, do it. A good indication, if you are drinking enough water, is the color of your urine. A clear, dilute urine is a good sign; you are well-hydrated. Make sure you are consuming electrolytes.
- Avoid or limit drinks with caffeine like coffee, teas, and soft drinks
- Avoid or limit drinks with alcohol
As scary as dehydration can be, our experienced staff is here to provide you with the utmost quality of services to help you and your family. In the case of any medical emergency, SE Texas ER & Hospital is here 24/7, 365 to provide compassionate, concierge-level emergency care to all patients.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, SE Texas ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinicians.
Nutex Health, Inc supports you and your family’s health. You can depend on SE Texas ER & Hospital, or any one of our concierge-level, medical facilities to deliver the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
