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5 Tips for Beating Dehydration this Summer

Battling the heat in the middle of summer is never easy and even worse, it is humid! This is one of the few times this summer I am glad that I spend most of my day in air conditioning. For those who are enjoying their summer days outside, a definite danger is Dehydration! Below are some facts and recommendations for staying safe in this hot weather.

Useful Facts:

  • Dehydration is when the loss of water (such as sweating, urination, vomiting, not drinking enough water) is greater than the intake of water and results in a loss of electrolytes
  • Young children, older adults, and those with chronic illness are more at risk
  • Signs/symptoms: Thirst, dry mouth, weakness, head ache, dizziness, confusion, in severe cases dehydration can lead to unconsciousness and seizures.
  • Effects on your Physical Activity: Decreased endurance, fatigue, muscle cramping, increase body temperature, risk of fainting during exercise

Top 5 Tips for Beating Dehydration:

  1. Drink Water! Carry water with you and drink throughout the day.
  2. Keep Cool: take breaks as able, sit in the shade or get inside for a break
  3. Wear Light Clothing
  4. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
  5. Eat foods High in Water Content: examples are lettuce, squash, cantaloupe, watermelon, potato, apples.

If you follow the above tips and still have a persistent weakness, difficulty performing household tasks, limited endurance, or persistent cramping, maybe it’s time to see a Physical Therapist. Contact Action Potential to speak to one of our trusted physical therapists so we can work together to find you a solution.

Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels

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