Could I be Dehydrated?

Drinking eight glasses of water per day seems like the first bit of advice that any health practitioner would offer you. Despite every effort to keep drinking water throughout the day, dehydration is a very real concern- especially in this Louisiana heat! According to the Mayo Clinic, older adults can be at greater risk of dehydration for a variety of reasons such as certain medications, bladder infections and a reduced sense of thirst. You may also become dehydrated after exercise, heat exposure or any episodes of diarrhea/vomiting. The signs of dehydration may vary from person to person, but be aware if you experience:

• Dark, concentrated urine or less frequent urination
• Extreme thirst
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

In addition to drinking water to keep hydrated, consider incorporating foods that have a high-water content such as cucumbers, watermelon, celery, and berries. Here’s to staying healthy and hydrated!