With festival season kicking in, foreign holidays and even the chance of some sun breaking through the Irish clouds, it’s important to stay hydrated.
Alcohol, diarrhoea, sun burn and failing to drink enough water can lead to dehydration – a condition that occurs when the loss of body fluids (mostly water) exceeds the amount that is taken in.
What are the symptoms of dehydration?
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth
- Swollen tongue
- Strong odour on the breath
- Weakness/ dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Palpitations (feeling that the heart is jumping or pounding)
- Sluggishness and fainting
- Inability to sweat
- Decreased urine output – strong smelling or darkly coloured urine*
* If urine is concentrated and deeply yellow or amber, you may be dehydrated
How can you help stave off dehydration?
- Sip small amounts of water, regularly
- Drink a carbohydrate/ electrolyte containing drink (These are usually found in most sports drinks)
- Eat popsicles made from fruit juices
- If at a musical festival, drink a bottle of water between drinks or suck on ice-cubes to stay refreshed
- Use a straw to sip on drinks if feeling nauseous
If the person is experiencing dehydration following over-exposure to the sun:
- Bring them into a cool environment
- Remove excess clothing
- Have them sip on a cool drink
- Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits
- Have the person lie down in a cool area with their feet slightly elevated
- Cool the person rapidly however you can
If you spot signs of confusion, dizziness, or weakness, call for medical assistance immediately to prevent risks of heat stroke.
As with all medical conditions, if you fear your symptoms are getting worse, check in with your local pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible.
