The importance of drinking plenty of fluids may be more obvious in the heat of a Florida summer. Did you know it is just as important to stay hydrated in the cooler months? Dry air can cause the loss of fluids just from breathing. Many people may not think about grabbing a glass of water in December.
Seasonal illnesses like a cold, the flu, or a stomach bug are often more prevalent in the fall and winter months. These may be accompanied by fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, all of which can lead to dehydration and possible complications.
If you do experience dehydration, the good news is that Emerald Coast Urgent Care can help. Experienced providers at our locations in Destin, Panama City Beach, and Inlet Beach are ready seven days a week to provide rapid care when you need it.
What is Dehydration and Why Does it Matter?
Your body is made largely of water, and it plays a major role in most of your body’s essential processes. Dehydration refers to a lack of overall water in your body and can be caused by several things, including hot weather, dry weather, fever, poor fluid intake, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Dehydration can affect your body in many negative ways. Inadequate water intake can increase your risk of kidney stones, kidney disease, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Dehydration has been linked to blood pressure issues, stiffer arteries, and inflammation, factors that increase the risk of a stroke or heart attack. When you are dehydrated, you may also have trouble thinking and concentrating.
Severe dehydration can lead to dangerous complications, including seizures, heat exhaustion, kidney failure, or shock from low blood volume.
Symptoms of Dehydration
If you feel thirsty, you’re probably already dehydrated. The symptoms of dehydration can start subtly and progress with more severe (and potentially dangerous) dehydration.
Symptoms may include:
- Significant thirst.
- Dry mouth and tongue.
- Sunken eyes.
- Decreased urination.
- Unusually dark urine.
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Weakness.
- Confusion.
- Dizziness.
When Should I Go to Urgent Care for Dehydration?
If you are experiencing the symptoms of dehydration and are concerned, visit us at Emerald Coast Urgent Care. Certain conditions that cause dehydration—like vomiting, diarrhea, and heat exposure—can be treated at urgent care. One of the treatments available at Emerald Coast Urgent Care is onsite IV fluid therapy. IV hydration therapy can quickly correct your dehydration, as well as electrolyte abnormalities that may go along with it.
How to Avoid Dehydration
To stay hydrated, drink plenty of fluids regularly. Though water is very beneficial, beverages like juice, milk, or sports drinks provide hydration as well. You should be careful with caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, or energy drinks, as they have diuretic properties and cause water loss. Alcohol can also contribute to dehydration.
It may be helpful to have a target to aim for. For optimum hydration and heart health, men should drink 12 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Women should drink eight glasses. If you have a medical condition that requires you to restrict fluids, you should follow your provider’s guidelines.
Staying hydrated when you are sick is critically important, especially if you are losing water due to a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. Water, herbal tea, or warm broth can all help prevent dehydration.
If you spend time outdoors in warm or hot weather, make sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially if you are working or exercising. Offsetting water losses can help to prevent dehydration or heat stroke. Avoiding being in the sun or heat for too long is also important.
Stay Hydrated for Health
Taking steps to stay hydrated can help you stay healthy in the fall, winter, and all year round. If you become dehydrated and have concerns, visit an Emerald Coast Urgent Care location near you. Our experienced providers can diagnose and treat a wide range of health issues in people of all ages.
