Stay Hydrated Under the Sun and In the Summer Heat

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in.

Staying hydrated under the summer sun can be difficult. As temperatures reach annual highs, your body is constantly losing water throughout the day. Understanding the importance of hydration and maintaining your body’s water level is crucial for feeling good and staying safe in the summer sun!

Here are some frequently asked questions about dehydration, as well as some tips and tricks for staying hydrated from the CDC and Cleveland Clinic:

What is dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Water is crucial for daily life function;. If water intake does not keep up with water loss, symptoms of dehydration – such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, confusion and delireum – can result.

What causes dehydration?

Dehydration can be caused by various factors. Commonly, excessive sweating (as a result of warm weather or increased physical activity) and lack of adequate water intake can lead to dehydration. Additionally, factors such as fever or illness can cause dehydration, as can some medications, such as diuretics.

What are symptoms of dehydration?

Dehydration can present itself in several different ways. Some common symptoms of dehydration include:

• Feeling thirsty or dry-mouthed
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
• Headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Fatigue
• Decreased urination or sweat production
• Dark colored or strong odor urine

Do I need to seek medical attention for my dehydration?

Dehydration severity varies. Mild to moderate dehydration usually can be treated by drinking fluids (plain water or sports drinks) and getting into a cool place. In cases of severe dehydration, you may experience disorientation or confusion, weak or rapid pulse, or lack of urination for prolonged periods of time (8 hours). If experiencing severe dehydration, you should immediately seek medical attention. Very old adults and very young children are at highest risk of severe dehydration. In the most serious cases, dehydration can contribute to potentially deadly heatstroke.

What are some tips for staying hydrated?

Drinking water and staying hydrated in the summer sun is imperative! There are several ways to ensure your body’s hydration is maintained at a healthy level. You can follow these tips to staying hydrated in the summer heat.

Drink plenty of water

Drinking water frequently throughout the day is crucial for staying hydrated. Keeping an insulated water bottle close by can encourage water consumption and act as a reminder to drink your water. Additionally, incorporating water-rich foods into your diet is also an easy and delicious way to ensure water intake! In addition, if you are sweating heavily, drinking sports beverages will help keep your electrolytes in balance.

Seek Shade and use sunscreen

Staying in shady areas and wearing sunscreen can help you stay at a healthy hydration level. Harsh exposure to the sun can drain your body’s water. Seeking shade and wearing sunscreen can allow your body to cool off from the sun, reduce your risk of sunburn and keep your skin moisturized, promoting your overall hydration.

Monitor urine color

Urine is an indicator of your body’s hydration level. The darker your urine is, the less water is in your system. Maintaining a light-yellow color urine is an indicator your body is at a healthy water level! However, dark or amber colored urine may be a sign that your body needs hydration.

Wear appropriate clothing

Additionally, wearing breathable and light-colored clothing can also help keep your body cool! Dark colored clothing absorbs sunlight, which can increase your body’s temperature. Furthermore, wearing loose-fitting clothing will allow air to pass along the skin, helping more easily reduce heat on the body, reduce sweating, and keep your body hydrated.

Set reminders

Setting reminders is also a great way to ensure you are drinking an adequate amount of water. Keeping alarms and marking down how often you are hydrating can allow you to keep track of your water intake and remind you when it is time to drink up!

Overall, staying hydrated is crucial to your health as it allows you to carry out daily life functions. Spending long hours in the summer heat and harsh sun can drain your body of water. Making sure you are keeping track of your water consumption and knowing how to stay hydrated under the sun can help you better avoid dehydration and help you stay healthy!