Stay Safe In The Heat
Summer has set in and while everyone wants to soak up those summer rays, it is extremely important to stay SUN SAFE. Increasing temperatures lead to an increase in dehydration, particularly in the elderly and young children. Your body needs both water and electrolytes to help you through the day. Water helps you digest food and maintain a normal body temperature, while electrolytes help keep your muscles functioning.
In the heat, or if you are unwell, the balance of water and electrolytes may become disturbed leading to dehydration. Look out for the following signs and symptoms: a dry or sticky mouth, increased thirst, fatigue, headache, decreased urine output and dark yellow urine.
In young children, it can be quite hard to see to signs of dehydration. Look out for dark yellow urine, fewer wet nappies or dry lips.
If you are getting older or care for an elderly person, it’s important to recognise the above signs as elderly persons are at a higher risk of dehydration. A vital sign of dehydration in the elderly is reduced sweating.
HOT TIPS FOR STAYING HYDRATED
1. Keep a water bottle close at hand to make a habit of drinking water at regular intervals! You need at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
2. At the first signs of dehydration, increase your fluid intake by drinking a large glass of water or sipping on replacement solutions such as Hydralyte.
3. Replacement solutions (Hydralyte) may be better tolerated if frozen.
4. Avoid sugary drinks as they can worsen dehydration.
5. Introduce more ‘wet’ foods into your diet, such as jelly or soup.
Come in and see our friendly pharmacists or staff to stay hydrated and safe this summer!