As we enter into the summer months, it is important to remember the importance of water, the miracle molecule. Water is important for nearly every function inside your body, from transporting energy to your cells, to keeping your body cool. Having worked as a camp counselor for several years, I’ve seen and suffered from dehydration first hand, and I’ll tell you: it is miserable. Luckily, it is simply fixed.
And now that you know why water is so interesting, let’s learn why it’s so important to stay hydrated.
Dehydration can rear its ugly head in a number of ways, some more severe than others.
Also known as heat exhaustion. This is normally easily treated and only results in discomfort. It is caused by a combination of a loss of water and salts.
Heat exhaustion is fairly easily treated. All it takes is to remove oneself from the heat by getting under some shade and rehydrating. Try to replace your lost water and salt with water, a sports drink, or fruits like oranges or peaches. Avoid soda however; its high sugar content may make you even thirstier. But remember, the best protection from dehydration is prevention; a general rule for me was to have two tall glasses of water before I had my first glass or can of soda for the day.
In severe cases, dehydration can lead to the more serious condition: heat stroke. You can recognize heat stroke by the following:
Heat stroke is extremely dangerous and should be treated immediately, so if you suspect someone is suffering from it, try to rehydrate them and get them to a hospital. Again, remove them from a heat source and try to cool them by giving them water and fanning them.
We are local insurance experts serving the South Shore for over 70 years.
Click below to get a free quote for your personal or business insurance.