Beat the Heat!

PSM News /

The heat makes you sweat, with loss a lot of fluid, which although cools you down but leaves you dehydrated.

 

Thirstiness isn't always a reliable early indicator of the body's need for water. Many people, mostly older adults, don't feel thirsty until they're already dehydrated. That's why it's important to increase water intake during summer. With the temperature overpass 40 degrees Celsius, the effects of extreme heat can potentially have a very severe impact on the human body.

 

During summer, everyone is at risk of dehydration, as temperature soars. These soaring temperature leads to serious complications, such as heat stroke, kidney and urinary problems, cerebral edema, seizures and hypovolemic shock (Low blood volume shock).

 

The signs and symptoms of dehydration also may differ by age.

 

Signs and symptoms of dehydration in adults:

 

  • Extreme thirst
  • Less frequent urination
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth, lips and eyes
  • Confusion

 

In Infants

 

  • Dry mouth and tongue
  • No tears when crying
  • Sunken eyes, cheeks
  • Sunken soft spot on top of skull
  • Listlessness or irritability
  • Rapid breathing
  • Fewer wet nappies
  • Drowsiness

 

Prevention

 

Dehydration can be prevented by taking few simple and wise steps.

 

Here are some tips to follow during summer to avoid Dehydration:

 

  • Drinking plenty of water or fluids throughout the day, while also ensuring that one should begin and end the day with a glass of water.
  • Taking natural juice without added sugar that have essential nutrients to keep you active during hot weather conditions.
  • Eating fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content helps to stay hydrated.
  • Limiting alcoholic and caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea.
  • Avoiding peak hours of sunlight when the temperatures and UV rays are at their highest, normally between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
  • Wearing light and loose-fitting clothes.

 

If left untreated, Dehydration can lead to serious complications and be fatal.  Dehydration requires medical attention, if you suspect someone is severely dehydrated, seek immediate medical help. While some parts of India have already begun to experience a change a temperature, there are few who are still dealing with the heat. Hope this article helps in some way of precaution.