Dehydration Can Lead to Strokes and Heart Attacks
The World Health Organization warns that extreme heat puts additional strain on the heart and kidneys, with the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions being particularly at risk.
The World Health Organization warns that extreme heat puts additional strain on the heart and kidneys, with the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions being particularly at risk.
High summer temperatures are not just a matter of discomfort and increased sweating. When the body loses more fluid than we take in, dehydration occurs-a condition that can have serious health consequences, including an increased risk of strokes and heart attacks. Extra caution is advised during heatwaves, physical activity in the sun, and in cases of fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that extreme heat puts additional stress on the cardiovascular system and kidneys and can worsen existing chronic conditions. The most vulnerable groups include the elderly, children, pregnant women, those with chronic illnesses, and anyone working or exercising outdoors.
Dry mouth and tongue can be an early signal that it's time to hydrate, but they are not the only signs. Common symptoms of dehydration include intense thirst, dark yellow urine, less frequent urination, chapped lips, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat. Urine color can serve as a simple guide-a light, pale yellow hue usually indicates good hydration, while darker urine signals a fluid deficit.
Headache, nausea, heavy sweating, cramps, and weakness can be signs of heat exhaustion. If the condition goes unrecognized and the person continues to stay in the heat, heatstroke can occur, which requires immediate medical attention.
There is no universal amount of fluid that suits everyone, as needs depend on body weight, age, health status, air temperature, physical activity, and the amount of sweating. As a practical guideline for hot days, about two to three liters of water per day is often recommended, spread throughout the day. More active individuals, those working outdoors, and those who sweat heavily may need more.
The WHO recommends drinking regularly during extreme heat, even before you feel thirsty. It's best to drink frequently and in small amounts rather than consuming a large quantity of water at once. Keeping a bottle or glass of water in a visible place can serve as a simple reminder to hydrate throughout the day. Individuals who have fluid restrictions due to heart, kidney, or liver conditions should not increase their water intake on their own but should consult their doctor.
Plain water is the best choice in most everyday situations. After prolonged physical exertion or heavy sweating, drinks containing electrolytes can also help, as sweating causes the loss of sodium and other minerals in addition to water. For most people who eat a normal diet and are not engaged in prolonged exertion, specialized sports drinks are not necessary.
Alcohol should be avoided as it can further contribute to fluid loss. Be cautious with heavily sweetened and energy drinks, while coffee and other caffeinated beverages should be consumed in moderation. You can also get fluids from water-rich foods like watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumber, tomatoes, peaches, oranges, yogurt, and soup, but such foods should not completely replace regular water intake.
Confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high body temperature, rapid breathing, and hot, dry skin can indicate heatstroke. This is a medical emergency that can be fatal if help is not provided quickly. The person should be moved out of the sun immediately, taken to a cooler place, have excess clothing loosened or removed, and begin gradual cooling.
Do not give fluids by mouth to someone who is confused, unconscious, or unable to swallow safely; instead, call emergency services immediately. If the person is vomiting, drinking a full glass of water at once may trigger nausea again-in such cases, fluids should be taken gradually, a few sips or a teaspoon every few minutes. For fluid loss due to vomiting or diarrhea, an oral rehydration solution can be used. If the person cannot keep even small amounts of fluid down, is not urinating, becomes extremely weak, or is confused, seek medical help.
"This is not an ordinary heatwave," said a meteorologist from the Republic Hydrometeorological Institute (RHMZ) for Kurir TV, announcing tropical nights and prolonged heat.
