Summertime brings about warmer weather and often a blistering sun. This, in combination with humidity, can result in profuse sweating, which quickly leads to dehydration.
Dehydration is a harmful reduction of water from the body, which summer weather and activities can quickly exacerbate. For many people, dehydration can occur without any immediate symptoms, but the effects are dangerous and can even be deadly. Intense activities, traveling, limited clean water supply and daily distractions can lead to dehydration. When symptoms do manifest themselves, you should watch out for:
Headache
Dizziness
Confusion
Thirst
Little to no urination
Dark-colored urine
Symptoms will worsen if water is not immediately consumed. When they do present themselves, the best is to get a glass of water and sip it over the course of 20 minutes. You should begin to feel better as you finish your glass. After you've finished 1 glass, drink another and make sure that you remain hydrated for the rest of the day.
Severe dehydration can lead to urinary and kidney problems, heat injury and even seizures. Children and older people are at a higher risk, as children tend to not pay attention to their water consumption and older people do not experience thirst as frequently due to poorer water retention.
The best way to avoid dehydration altogether without constantly worrying is to always have a bottle of water on you wherever you go. Even a small bottle of water will suffice, as it is portable, and you'll always be reminded to refill it. Another trick is to remember to be consistent in your meals. Food, especially carbohydrates, help the body retain water. It will be more likely to pass right through you on an empty stomach.
By monitoring these symptoms and using these prevention tips, you should be able to enjoy your summer with fewer problems.
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