It is a common misconception that dehydration occurs in hot weather or cases of becoming lost in the wilderness. While you certainly can become dehydrated in those circumstances, it can happen any time of year, in any weather, to anyone. Our bodies need water to replenish cells and stay in peak performance. When we don’t nourish ourselves, these cells practically scream in starvation. It can effect our performance, basic functions and even cause life-threatening medical issues.
When we become dehydrated, our heart rate increases, blood flow to our skin decreases and our body temperatures can soar to dangerous heights. Despite movies about desert explorers or blazing hot days, you can easily become dehydrated in the fall or winter as well. It is simply about a lack of water in our systems.
Exercise, sports and other strenuous activity can cause us to lose water faster as well as intense heat but ignoring your body’s need for proper fuel is something you should be aware of on a daily basis. Here are signs that your body is becoming dehydrated…
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Trouble Concentrating
- Thirst
- Tired Or Weak
- Urine Is Bright Yellow (Should Be Nearly Clear)
If you don’t act immediately upon noticing these symptoms, your body could launch into severe dehydration which can have dire consequences. Dry lips and tongue, sunken eyes, small amounts of urine and brightly colored or extremely dark urine with an odor are all signs of severe dehydration. In this instance, seek medical attention immediately.
The point is to never feel thirsty. If you are thirsty, you are becoming dehydrated. Make sure you consume water throughout your day. When you are playing sports or exercising, be sure to drink fluids before, during and after the event. For those folks or children who have a hard time consuming water, try sports drinks. This will promote better hydration and keep your body fueled. Make a schedule for yourself in which you reach a certain fluid intake each day and keep a water bottle on you at all times. It will come in handy when you are running errands.
Check out this article for more tips on How To Stay Hydrated. Regardless of what the weather is outside or what activity you are engaging in, by not nourishing your body with refreshing, pure fluids, you run the risk of dire medical problems. Life may be hectic but we should all remember to stop and take a sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get dehydrated in cold weather?
Yes. It is a common misconception that dehydration only happens in hot weather. It can happen to anyone at any time of year and in any weather, including fall and winter, because it is simply a lack of water in the body.
What are the early signs of dehydration?
Early signs include headache, dizziness, nausea, trouble concentrating, thirst, feeling tired or weak and bright yellow urine, which should be nearly clear.
When does dehydration require medical attention?
Dry lips and tongue, sunken eyes, small amounts of urine and brightly colored or extremely dark urine with an odor are signs of severe dehydration. In that case, seek medical attention immediately.
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