Dehydration

June 20, 2023

As we are in our hottest run of hot weather yet this summer the topic of dehydration has come up multiple times in the clinic. Keeping properly hydrated is important for our normal health, but becomes increasingly important as we are healing and as we are dealing with increased temperatures.

Dehydration is caused by losing more fluids than we take in. This can cause a host of issues in our bodies due to the imbalance of fluid and nutrients that it causes. Some early signs of dehydration are a dry mouth, feeling thirst, feeling tired, urinating less, or having urine that smells or looks differently. 

Dehydration can affect anyone, but being an athlete or active adult, having chronic medical conditions, or recovering from an illness or procedure can make you more susceptible to dehydration.

If you are experiencing any of these issues it is important to remember to try to drink more fluids. If doing this makes you feel sick, then you need to take more frequent smaller drinks. Try to avoid any flavored or carbonated beverages. Tea and coffee may also not be the best choice when trying to get rehydrated. 

Staying hydrated will keep your blood levels up and flowing through your body. This allows for the nutrients and oxygen that you need to feel you best and that your tissues need to heal. It is recommended adults should drink at least 64 ounces of fluid per day. If you are at risk for dehydration that amount should be increased. 

Perhaps a water bottle (Witte Physical Therapy has some!) should be just as important of an accessory to carry around with you as your phone is!

References:

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/nutritional/dehydration#:~:text=Dehydration%20is%20caused%20by%20not,of%20physical%20activity%20and%20diet.

https://extension.usu.edu/news_sections/home_family_and_food/summer-hydration