In simple terms, dehydration occurs when your body loses fluid faster than you replace it. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can avoid dehydration and all that goes along with it.
Understanding the early warning signs of dehydration can help prevent trouble. Here’s what you should look for:
• Dry mouth
• Lightheaded or dizzy
• Fatigue
• Urinating less often
• Dark colored urine
Most people who suffer from dehydration do so as the result of strenuous activity, such as working out or spending time outdoors in hot weather. If you know you’ll be expending a lot of energy, it’s critical to replace the fluids you lose through sweat.
Some people have a higher risk of dehydration than others, including:
• Elderly individuals who aren’t paying attention to the symptoms
• People who consume alcohol while losing fluids
• People with long-term health conditions, such as diabetes
If you have reason to believe you’re becoming dehydrated, stop what you’re doing, head for a cool area, and replenish the fluids you’ve lost. Ideally, you’ll do so through the consumption of water, but other options, such as sports drinks, are just as effective.
In the event of severe dehydration, you may need to visit a local hospital for IV replenishment. This isn’t a health concern to take lightly, as ignoring it can result in permanent damage.
Jennifer Ferdinand, owner of Serendipity Wellness Studio in Burke, VA, has been practicing massage therapy and esthetics since 2006. She is nationally certified through NCBTMB, and licensed in Virginia for both Massage Therapy and Esthetics.
Comments