Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than it takes in. As a result, a deficiency occurs that can impair normal bodily functions. Despite popular belief, dehydration does not just occur in hot climates as it can strike at any time in any type of climate. To this point, Minnesota is as prone to dehydrated individuals as places like Florida.

Common causes of dehydration include:

Excessive sweating
Inadequate fluid intake
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Specific medications such as diuretics

Symptoms of dehydration include:

Thirst
Dry mouth and skin
Urine that is dark in color
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Fatigue
Confusion
Headaches

So how do we prevent dehydration? There are many ways to be proactive such as drinking adequate amounts of fluids. The best choice is water and it is best to avoid caffeinated beverages or alcohol as these can increase urinary fluid loss and worsen symptoms of dehydration. Consuming fruits and vegetables can provide hydration as well.

Interestingly, water alone, especially in large amounts, can actually cause a different concern—dilution of essential electrolytes. Think about the salt pills coaches used to pass out years ago on the sports field during sunny hot days. Too much water alone dilutes more than just sodium and chloride! Sports drinks like Gatorade were developed to be better than just water.

IV hydration with a full suite of essential electrolytes is even better yet!

If dehydration is severe enough that conventional methods are not doing an adequate job, a Hydrate IV with isotonic solution can rehydrate an individual from the inside out in a fast-acting manner. This not only cools the body, but provides much needed hydration and electrolytes to the cells of the most vital organs. Supplements can further enhance the beneficial effects of Hydrate IV rejuvenation besides solving dehydration; each IV is tailored to each person’s individual needs and concerns.

Even though dehydration can occur at any time, yes, increasing temperatures can more frequently cause the symptoms listed above. However, there are other hidden dangers to blistering heat as well. As we enter into the dog days of summer where temperatures and humidity levels peak, vigilance must be taken to avoid heat-related illnesses. These can range from mild heat cramps to severe heat stroke.

Heat cramps are painful muscle cramps that often occur in the legs and abdomen. They are often relieved by rehydration with water or a sugar-free electrolyte solution, and also by stretching and massaging the affected muscles.
Heat exhaustion is a little more severe and requires more attention. Some of the symptoms can be:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Cold and Clammy skin
- Rapid and weak pulse
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fainting
  The first step to treat heat exhaustion is to move to a cooler environment.
  Just as with heat cramps, providing the body with hydration from oral or intravenous sources is essential.
  Electrolyte solutions can facilitate rehydration. Using wet cloths to cool the body and allowing for time to rest can restore normalcy.
Heat stroke is the most severe heat -related illness and can require immediate emergency medical intervention. By definition heat stroke is characterized by a body temperature above 104 degrees fahrenheit. Some of the unique characteristics of heat stroke are listed below.
- Hot and DRY skin
- Rapid pulse
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
  When heat stroke is suspected emergency services should be activated as this can be a life-threatening condition. Just as with the other heat-related maladies, it is critical to move into a cooler environment and add immediate body-contact ice packs and if available, immersion into cold water. With someone suffering heat stroke, these interventions will require assistance from others. Get help and call 911! Emergency services such as an advanced life support ambulance or an Emergency Room will continue their own trained interventions which will always include IV fluids.

Hydrate IV Therapy IS NOT a substitute for advanced care when heat stroke is suspected. Call 911 in these situations!

Hydrate IV Therapy in Edina, MN may be able to help with dehydration and milder forms of heat-related illness by introducing IV fluids, electrolytes, and supplements directly into a vein providing immediate, efficient, and thorough rehydration. It is important to seek medical advice to determine if IV hydration is appropriate for more serious situations. As mentioned above, heat stroke or even severe heat exhaustion are medical emergencies that require a high level of care and treatment. Do not delay if these conditions are suspected as it is crucial to rapidly return the body to a state of normalcy. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and be vigilant with the signs and symptoms of the various heat-related illnesses. Stay ahead of critical fluid and electrolyte deficiencies with Hydrate IV.

*** This blog is intended for information only and is not a substitute for actual medical advice. Hydrate IV Therapy recommends consulting you own primary care physician or higher levels of care if any of the medical concerns above are suspected***