A Friendly Reminder
Unfortunately, though we may initially know something, we all tend to forget on occasion…including myself (though I’m not guilty this time). I’ve posted on this topic before, so for those of you who have read my previous entries on dehydration, forgive me. Just look at it as a friendly reminder! (If you’ve not read my previous entries, you can read them by clicking here for part 1, and here to read part 2 on the dangers of dehydration). I’ve seen way too many cases lately to not speak up and say something about this. Don’t get me wrong, I can easily see how staying hydrated is something that can be looked past, especially as the weather starts to cool and we don’t find ourselves constantly overheated. But being dehydrated has serious health implications..no seriously, it’s not a good situation to find yourself in.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the signs and symptoms of mild dehydration include:
- Dry, sticky mouth
- Sleepiness or tiredness
- Thirst
- Decreased urine output, few or no tears when crying
- Dry skin
- Headache
- Muscle cramps (aka Charlie Horses)
- Constipation
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
When the body is not given the fluids it needs and dehydration gets more severe, the symptoms do too. Severe dehydration is considered a medical emergency…why do you think that is? Well, let’s see…that might be because you can end up, oh I don’t know…DEAD. The signs and symptoms of severe dehydration include:
- Extreme thirst
- Very dry mouth, skin and mucous membranes
- Lack of sweating
- Little or no urination
- Sunken eyes
- Shriveled and dry skin that lacks elasticity
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- No tears when crying
- Fever
- In the most serious cases, delirium or unconsciousness
Dehydration is not a pleasant experience. I don’t recommend it, that’s for sure. SO how much water should YOU be drinking? To find out, read my post on water and how much you should be drinking, (just click here.) Don’t forget that in addition to your daily dose of water, you need to replace the water you sweat out while you’re at the gym! For every 15 minutes of exercise you owe your body 1 cup of water…and why would you wanna short change yourself?