Q: Which doctor should I visit if I notice symptoms of dehydration?
A: You should visit a General Physician in case you notice symptoms and signs of dehydration. While mild to moderate dehydration can be resolved with simple restorative measures, it is always a good idea to visit a physician to identify the root cause of the problem. In case, your baby or infant is dehydrated, you could take your little one to their regular pediatrician for treatment.
Q: I work in an air-conditioned office, can I still be dehydrated?
A: Yes. Despite what you might think, working all day in an air-conditioned office can also dehydrate you. This is because cooled indoor air is usually devoid of moisture content and therefore can cause you to become dehydrated due to loss of fluids through your skin– increasing your fluid requirement. There is a lack of natural response to the loss of fluids making it difficult for the body to identify dehydration.
Q: Can dehydration kill me?
A: Yes, dehydration can be fatal if left unchecked. This is because most of your bodily functions, such as your heart beating, the blood circulation in your body, breathing, etc., require water. Therefore, if the amount of fluids in your body decreases to such an extent where these functions can no more take place, your organs will start to shut down and you can die.
Q: What is the best hydrating agent?
A: The best hydrating agent is water and ORS. But other natural sources can also help a great deal. For instance, fruit juices such as tender coconut water, lemon juice, and other cold pressed fresh juices are also great to re-hydrate and replenish your body’s electrolyte reserves.
Q: Are energy drinks recommended during a bout of fatigue due to dehydration?
A: No. Energy drinks can dehydrate you further, making you feel ill. This is because most energy drinks contain caffeine (a component added to give you that much needed energy) which dehydrates your body. So if you feel weak while in the sun, pick up a bottle of water instead of an energy drink.
