Hydration, dehydration, and heatstroke

Inadequate intake of fluids is a leading cause of dehydration, with many people needing to ensure that they have the recommended 8-10 cups of fluids a day. Mild dehydration during the summer months is very common; however, if combined with a high amount of sun exposure, it can result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and high temperature. If this occurs, the person needs to be cooled down with cool drinking water and moist tepid sponges applied to the face and body. Don’t use ice packs. If this does not result in an improvement in symptoms within 30 minutes, they may be at risk of developing heatstroke.

Symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, not sweating despite feeling hot, high temperature (usually over 104F), drowsiness and reduced consciousness, and in severe cases, seizures. Anyone with these symptoms needs to be treated as an emergency and should be transferred to a hospital without delay.

Dehydration can be prevented with regular fluids and increased awareness of activities that can result in dehydration, such as exercise and alcohol use. Although water and fluids from other drinks are often sufficient, some drinks are marketed as providing additional hydration and salt depletion support for those competing in regular sporting activities.

If you have already become dehydrated, then oral rehydration salts mixed with water can help replace the water and essential salts that your body needs for brain and body functioning. If you have diarrhea, it is recommended that you have a sachet after each loose stool, while not exceeding the recommended dosages.

If you have been unable to keep down fluids for over 12 hours or have had severe diarrhea, or are feeling weak, then it is best to be seen by your doctor. If you have any of the symptoms of heatstroke, then you should go to the hospital without delay.