How much water do you drink on average? Is it five, eight, or more glasses per day?
If drinking water is the last thing on your mind, you’re at risk for dehydration. A whopping 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. What’s even worse is that many of them drink beverages with diuretic properties. Alcohol and coffee, for instance, cause your body to flush out water. Additionally, hot weather, exercise, vomiting, and diarrhea may cause dehydration even among those who drink enough water.
When you’re not properly hydrated, your body cannot function at its peak. In the worst case scenario, you may experience fever and chills, dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, and even death.
No matter the cause, there are ways to prevent these issues before it’s too late. Check out these simple tips for recovering from dehydration:
The first thing you need to do in case of dehydration is to drink more fluids. Water, herbal teas, fresh fruit juices, and smoothies are all a great choice.
Take small sips once every 30 minutes or so. Commit yourself to drinking at least 10 glasses of water or other fluids. Soup and broth will do the trick too.
Beware that coffee and alcoholic beverages don’t count toward your daily water intake. These drinks actually make dehydration worse.
Loaded with potassium, calcium, and amino acids, coconut water hydrates your body from the inside out. This beverage is naturally rich in electrolytes, which helps ward off fatigue and raises your energy.
Due to its high potassium levels, coconut water has even been for IV hydration. Plus, it’s a healthy alternative to sports drinks. That’s why many athletes consume this beverage before and after training.
Ideally, choose an organic brand. Check the label for additives, preservatives, and hidden sugars. If you see any of these ingredients, pick a different product.
Certain foods, such as leafy greens, melons, berries, and celery, are naturally high in water. This makes them ideal for those struggling with dehydration.
Fresh fruits and vegetables should come first on your list. You may also try cultured dairy foods, clear soups, green smoothies, and freshly squeezed juices.
Oral rehydration salts are widely available in most pharmacies and health stores. They’re usually prescribed to those suffering from diarrhea and other health issues that may cause dehydration.
These products boast a mix of electrolytes, glucose, and other nutrients that help restore your fluid balance and increase hydration levels. You can even prepare them at home using salt, water, and glucose or sugar.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, medical help may be required. Sometimes, recovering from dehydration is not as easy as drinking more water.
If you’re severely dehydrated, call your doctor or visit the nearest ER department. You may be prescribed IV fluid hydration, which can replace fluids lost through vomiting, diarrhea, and other health conditions.
Even the slightest dehydration can affect your brain, immune system, and muscle function. It may also impact your physical performance and mental focus.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – your body needs water to survive. Recovering from dehydration should be your priority.
The first sign of dehydration is typically thirst. By the time you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. The longer you wait, the more severe it gets.
When you are sick or have an injury, you want to start feeling better as soon as possible. While visiting your primary care doctor or the emergency room is an option, urgent care is a bridge between these two offices and provides fast and accurate care for minor medical issues.
At Coastal Urgent Care, we are proud to care for Louisiana residents in Haughton, Ruston, Baton Rouge, Bossier City, Gonzales, and Slidell. We are open seven days a week with extended hours so patients can receive immediate attention for illness and injury without an appointment.
Coastal Urgent Care operates several clinics across Louisiana, each offering the same high standard of care while catering to the unique needs of their communities. We deliver efficient, compassionate, and personalized care to every patient who walks through our doors. Our experienced team of healthcare professionals provides timely treatment and ensures that you receive the attention you deserve.
If you’re searching for “urgent care near me” in Louisiana, look no further than Coastal Urgent Care. Our urgent care centers are here to provide you with the care you need, where and when you need it most. Visit one of our urgent care clinics in Baton Rouge, Bossier, Gonzales, Ruston, or Slidell.