Now that we have been experiencing the warmer portion of our summer, it is important that we have some basic knowledge about recognizing the symptoms of dehydration, heat exhaustion and stroke, along with prevention.   

What is dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when the amount of water leaving the body exceeds the amount of water being taken in.  Water is critical for our health and well-being.    Our body weight is composed of over 75 percent water.  Most of our fluid resides in body cells with a smaller amount in our blood vessels. 

We routinely lose water breathing out humidified air from our lungs, along with fluid loss from urination, defecation, and sweating. Most of us drink more than enough throughout the day to replace this kind of loss. 

What are the symptoms?

The severity of symptoms depends on the level of fluid loss.  Common symptoms include:

Dry mouth,

Eyes stop making tears,

Sweating may stop,

Muscle cramps,

Nausea and vomiting,

Heart palpitations,

Lightheadedness (especially when standing or sitting up) and

Decrease in urine production.

 With severe dehydration, confusion and weakness will occur as the brain and other body organs receive a smaller volume of blood. Finally, coma and organ failure—and death eventually—will occur if the dehydration remains untreated.

Heat-related illnesses and associated complications

In heat-related illness, the body’s attempt to cool itself by sweating increases dehydration to the point that muscles may go into spasm—this is known as heat cramps. 

As fluid loss increases, the patient might dehydrate to a level in which there is not enough water to sweat. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke may occur.

Confusion or delirium and lack of responsiveness are hallmarks of heat stroke.  This is a true medical emergency that requires rapid transport to an emergency room.

Additionally, if you or someone around you is experiencing muscle cramps, feels feverish, is dizzy when attempting to stand or walk, or acts confused, it important to seek urgent care from your doctor or the closest emergency room.  

How do you treat dehydration at home?

Fluid replacement is the treatment for dehydration. This can be attempted by replacing fluid by mouth, but if this fails, intravenous fluid (IV) might be required. Oral rehydration is accomplished by frequent sipping of small amounts of clear fluids. Clear fluids include water, clear broths, ice pops and gelatin desserts. Other replacement fluids are those that contain electrolytes.

Can heat-related conditions be prevented?

Dehydration due to the weather is preventable.  If possible, activities should not be scheduled in the heat of the day. If they are, adequate fluids should be available, and cooler, shaded areas should be used if possible. 

Those working in hot environments need to have water available to rehydrate.

If a person is exposed to high temperatures in their work or exercise on a regular basis, salt tablets to replace electrolytes are often recommended.  However, the person should only take them under the supervision of a doctor, because excess salt can cause an increase in blood pressure. 

People exercising in a hot environment need to drink adequate amounts of water—at least one quart per hour.

The young and the elderly are most at risk. During heat waves, attempts should be made to check on the elderly in their homes.

Most of us enjoy our warm weather.  Along with preventing sunburn and protection from insect bites, we need to plan ahead and make sure that we take water and other fluids with us when are spending a summer day outside. Also use sunscreen and insect repellent.