Don't Let the Summer Sun Dry You Out!
July 2003 — Dehydration and heatstroke are serious concerns in South Florida. But while both sexes and all ages are at risk, the danger is particularly great for babies and the elderly.
"Babies and young children are at risk for dehy-dration because of their small body size and because they can't always tell you how they feel," says Beverly Greenberg, DO, family practitioner and Chief of Staff at Memorial Hospital West.
"Adults are another issue. Many older adults drink less than they should for many reasons," says Greenberg. "Some are told to restrict sodium, sugar and extra fluids because of medical conditions. The elderly who live alone often forget to drink, and they may eat only sparingly."
A person who becomes dehydrated may feel weak, dizzy, disoriented or experience an irregular heartbeat. Without proper rehydration, he or she may experience heatstroke, which, if untreated, can result in a life-threatening emergency. If heatstroke occurs, the person should be taken immediately into a cool environment and the body temperature should be lowered with cold compresses. Once the person regains consciousness, cool drinks will lower the body temperature.
You Need More Than Water
If you think you are immune from dehydration because you drink lots of water, think again. "Water alone will not solve the problem, because it doesn't replace essential nutrients and chemicals," says Greenberg. "When levels of electrolytes, such as sodium chloride and potassium, drop along with blood glucose, problems begin."
So if water isn't the answer, what is? Greenberg calls the solution "water plus." This means a drink that contains water plus sugar, salt and the body's missing nutrients. Examples include fruit juice, soup or a commercially available sports drink. In a pinch, Greenberg says a full-calorie soft drink will do, but coffee, tea and diet soda are out. "They are not safe replacement fluids if used alone," she says.
If you plan to spend time in the heat during the next few months, drink 8-10 glasses of "water plus" a day, even if you are not perspiring. Babies and older people should stay out of the midday sun to reduce the chance of becoming dehydrated. Sunblock, hats and protective clothing can also lessen the risk of dehydration and other heat-related illnesses.