Do Sweat the Heat...Dehydration is Big Stuff

by Vicki Rackner MD

July 2010

Here's something to remember on lazy summer days. Drink up!

Your body's fluid reserves work just like your checking account. You stay in balance by putting in the same amount you take out. When it's hot or it's humid or you're exercising, your body cools itself by sweating. Sweating results in a withdrawal from your body's water reserves so you need to drink more to stay in water balance and avoid dehydration.

The young and the elderly get dehydrated most quickly. They also pay the highest health price for dehydration. Even a mild imbalance of water can cause serious medical problems. According to the CDC, more Americans die of extreme heat exposure than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined. Preventing dehydration is your best and safest strategy.

You're in water balance if you're not thirsty, right? WRONG! Thirst is not a reliable gauge of your body's needs, especially in children and the elderly. The color of your urine is a much more reliable indicator of your water balance. If you're well-hydrated, your urine is clear or light-colored; if you're dehydrated your urine is dark yellow or amber.

Here are some tips for staying in fluid balance:

Remind yourself to drink regularly even if you're not thirsty. Remind your parents and your kids. Better yet, ask your kids to remind you and their grandparents to drink.

Choose your fluids wisely. In general, water is the best drink. You can add a slice of lemon or lime. Alcohol and caffeine tend to have a diuretic effect, which means that they cause a net withdrawal from the fluid bank rather than a deposit.

Stay cool. Go to the air-conditioned library and enjoy the many resources.

Know the signs of dehydration. The earliest signs include fatigue, weakness, and poor concentration. Headache, dizziness and fainting are associated with even mild dehydration.

Check with your doctor if you're on diuretics or "water pills" or fluid restrictions.

Never leave anyone in a closed parked car.

Dr. Vicki Rackner is a surgeon who left the operating room to help people make healthy choices that lead to healthy bodies and healthy relationships. She's an author and speaker regularly quoted in the national press. Dr. Rackner's most recent book is Caregiving without Regrets. For more practical tips about caring for your loved ones "and yourself--visit www.TheCaregiverClub.com or call (425) 451-3777.