Q: Which doctor should I consult if I suspect dehydration?
A: Dehydration is a serious health issue and requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect yourself or your loved one to be dehydrated, contact your local doctor at the earliest. Severe cases of dehydration may require immediate hospitalization, intravenous infusion of saline drip and body cooling procedures.
Q: Is water the best source of hydration in summer?
A: Water consumption is very important for us and is a vital source of hydration, but it may not be the best source of hydration, particularly in cases of severe dehydration. This is because our bodies depend on an intricate balance of water, minerals, salts, sugars and other ingredients to function at optimum levels. This is why doctors prescribe oral rehydrating salts that contain salt, sugar, and other electrolytes in an optimum combination in cases of dehydration. During summers, we lose salts and water due to the high levels of heat. Vegetables and fruits are rich sources of minerals, salts, water, fiber and sugars that are required by the human body. Most vegetables and fruits are more that 80% water and are very effective at hydrating our bodies.
A study conducted by the University of Aberdeen Medical School found that some fruits and vegetables may be twice as effective at hydrating as water.
3. What are the signs of inadequate hydration?
A feeling of unusual thirst, dry mouth, dizziness or headaches, and inability to focus are all indicators of dehydration. If you pass very little urine or dark colored urine, it indicates severe dehydration and you need to up your water intake! Severely dehydrated people do not feel like eating or drinking anything and may not feel thirsty.
So, if you notice any of these symptoms, immediately contact your nearest doctor, get some rest and fluids till then, and don’t panic!
Q: What are the signs of inadequate hydration?
A: Is water the best source of hydration in summer?
Water consumption is very important for us and is a vital source of hydration, but it may not be the best source of hydration, particularly in cases of severe dehydration. This is because our bodies depend on an intricate balance of water, minerals, salts, sugars and other ingredients to function at optimum levels. This is why doctors prescribe oral rehydrating salts that contain salt, sugar, and other electrolytes in an optimum combination in cases of dehydration. During summers, we lose salts and water due to the high levels of heat. Vegetables and fruits are rich sources of minerals, salts, water, fiber and sugars that are required by the human body. Most vegetables and fruits are more that 80% water and are very effective at hydrating our bodies.
A study conducted by University of Aberdeen Medical School found that some fruits and vegetables may be twice as effective at hydrating as water.
3. What are the signs of inadequate hydration?
A feeling of unusual thirst, dry mouth, dizziness or headaches, and inability to focus are all indicators of dehydration. If you pass very little urine or dark colored urine, it indicates severe dehydration and you need to up your water intake! Severely dehydrated people do not feel like eating or drinking anything and may not feel thirsty.
So, if you notice any of these symptoms, immediately contact your nearest doctor, get some rest and fluids till then, and don’t panic!
