What is dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Dehydration can happen to people of all ages. It is especially common during the summer months, when children are more likely to play outside and forget to hydrate themselves. Children, older adults, and people with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, are more likely to become dehydrated.

The effects of dehydration include:

- Dry mouth

- Increased thirst

- Cramps

- Dry, sticky mouth

- Light-headedness

- Headaches

- Nausea

- Fatigue

- Faintness

- Dark urine

Drinking plenty of water during exercise and throughout the day is the best way to prevent dehydration.

The dangers of dehydration

Dehydration is a serious issue that affects athletes of all ages and abilities. From a simple headache to muscle cramps, dehydration can affect anyone. It also can have an adverse affect on dental health. Many sports drinks and foods contain high amounts of sugar that can erode enamel.

The benefits of staying hydrated

Dehydration can have a negative impact on athletic performance. Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration. While runners and swimmers may sweat excessively, athletes in other sports may not sweat as much, but they still lose fluids through breathing and urination.

Tips for staying hydrated during sports

Staying hydrated during sports is very important. It’s not only important for your dental health – as we’ve already discussed. Dehydration can affect your performance and overall health.

Drinking water before, during and after you participate in sports is the best way to stay hydrated. You’ll also want to avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as much as possible.

When to seek medical attention for dehydration

Severe dehydration can lead to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Other symptoms of heatstroke include:

- Confusion

- Clammy or moist skin

- Dizziness

- Nausea

- Red or hot and dry skin

- Rapid breathing

- Rapid heartbeat

- Body temperature above 104 degrees F

- Fainting

- Muscle cramps and spasms

How to stay hydrated during sports

Staying hydrated during sports is essential. Without enough water, your body isn’t able to keep up with the demands of physical activity. Not having enough water can result in heat exhaustion, which can lead to heat stroke. So make sure to drink plenty of water before your games and during breaks.

How to prevent dehydration during sports

When you play sports, your body loses fluids through sweat. Losing fluids and electrolytes through sweat can cause dehydration. Dehydration can cause dry mouth, thirst, weakness, dizziness, muscle pain, headache, and nausea. Dehydration can affect your athletic performance and can increase your risk for heat-related illnesses or injuries.

You should drink sports drinks and water before, during, and after you play sports to stay hydrated. Sports drinks contain electrolytes, like sodium and potassium. These electrolytes help your body to absorb water.

Products available to help you stay hydrated

When you are exercising or playing sports, you are losing a lot of fluid in the form of sweat. It’s very important that you stay hydrated throughout the day. One way to help you do this is to drink sports drinks whenever you feel thirsty. These products contain electrolytes which your body needs.