Physician shares summer hydration tips as heat raises dehydration risk

A Texas Tech Physicians doctor is warning that rising summer temperatures can quickly lead to dehydration, especially for children, older adults and people taking certain medications. The advice: drink water early and often, add electrolytes for longer exertion, and treat confusion or fainting in the heat as an emergency.

Why it matters: - Summer heat increases the chance of dehydration, which can strain the body and, in severe cases, damage organs. - The risk is higher for young children, older adults, people with limited mobility and people taking medications that increase fluid loss. - Heat-related dehydration can turn into a medical emergency if warning signs are ignored.

What happened: - Drew Payne, D.O., an internal medicine physician with Texas Tech Physicians in Lubbock, Texas, outlined hydration and heat-safety guidance for hot weather. - Payne said dehydration happens when a person loses more fluid than they take in. - Payne said high temperatures make the body sweat more, and humidity raises dehydration risk by slowing sweat evaporation.

The details: - Water is the best choice during the first few hours outside or during physical activity. - For activity lasting more than two hours, Payne said electrolytes should be considered. - Electrolytes include sodium, potassium and magnesium, which support nerve and muscle function. - Sports drinks can help replace electrolytes lost through sweat during prolonged or intense exercise. - Drinking too much water without sodium can dilute blood sodium and cause hyponatremia. - Hyponatremia can lead to headaches, nausea and confusion, and in severe cases can cause seizures or loss of consciousness. - People should limit exposure during the hottest part of the day, typically early to mid-afternoon. - Shade, planning ahead and bringing water before hiking or mowing the yard can reduce risk. - Alcohol can make it harder to sense body temperature and sun exposure on hot days.

Between the lines: - The guidance suggests dehydration is not just about thirst; it is also about balancing fluids and electrolytes in the heat. - Payne’s warning about too much water underscores that overcorrection can be dangerous when sodium is not replaced. - The focus on children and older adults reflects how heat can hit people who are less able to recognize or respond to fluid loss.

What's next: - People spending extended time outdoors should carry water and consider electrolyte replacement when exertion lasts longer than two hours. - Anyone who develops confusion, trouble walking, fainting or loss of consciousness in the heat should be treated as an emergency. - Payne said to call 911, move the person to a cooler area and start cooling them while help is on the way.

The bottom line: - In summer heat, water is the first line of defense, electrolytes matter during longer exertion, and severe symptoms require immediate medical help.