Keeping Your Cool – Preventing Dehydration

Dehydration is the loss of water and salts from the body.  In some cases, it can be a matter of life and death.  Symptoms of early or mild dehydration include a flushed faced, thirst, dry, warm skin, dizziness, weakness, headaches, irritability and a dry mouth.  Moderate or severe dehydration symptoms include low blood pressure, fainting, severe muscle contractions, convulsions, a bloated stomach, sunken dry eyes, rapid breathing, a lack of elasticity of the skin, and a fast, weak pulse.  It is important to take measure to avoid dehydration. 

5 steps to avoid dehydration:

1. Start drinking plenty of water before an activity. Water should be cool, but not ice cold
2. Continue to drink water throughout the activity.
3. Avoid fruit juices or non-diet soft drinks.  Sugar can aggravate dehydration and cause bloating and cramps.
4. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they increase dehydration.
5. Weigh yourself before and after an activity.  For each pound lost, you should drink 1 pint of water. 

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