People with chronic illnesses, such as kidney disease and diabetes, are especially vulnerable to dehydration. These illnesses can make them feel nauseous and not want to drink or eat. These people are also more likely to experience dehydration in hot weather. Luckily, there are some steps that you can take to prevent dehydration.
The first thing you need to do to prevent dehydration is to drink more water. Dehydration can be dangerous if left untreated, and should be treated immediately. People tend to lose water when they exercise, are in hot weather, or take medications. When the amount of fluid in the body decreases by more than 3 or 4 percent, it is classified as dehydration. This decrease won’t necessarily lead to symptoms and most people absorb a small percentage of fluid without realizing it.
If you feel thirsty, start drinking small amounts of water and gradually increase your intake. If you’re not accustomed to drinking a lot, use a spoon to help you drink more fluids. Make sure you drink water until your pee is clear and pale. If your dehydration is severe, you should go to the emergency room of the nearest hospital. You might need medical treatment such as an intravenous drip.
Dehydration can be caused by several factors, including excessive sweating and diarrhea. In addition, extreme cold can cause blood vessels to constrict, causing shivering, which only makes dehydration worse. Treatment for dehydration involves replacing the lost fluids and electrolytes as well as treating any life-threatening symptoms.