Dehydration is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It occurs when your body releases more water than it takes in. Many factors can cause dehydration, including low fluid intake, excessive sweating, urinating frequently, and certain illnesses. According to StatPearls publishing, dehydration may either cause illness or be caused by an illness. The research also notes that older adults are at a greater risk of dehydration, with immobility, impaired thirst mechanisms, diabetes, renal disease, and falls as a leading cause of 20–30% of affected individuals.
Interestingly, some people who travel to high-altitude areas also report feeling dehydrated. We asked an expert whether there is a link between the two.
Also Read: Why Dehydration Causes Heart Palpitations: Understanding The Link
Can High Altitudes Cause Dehydration?
According to Dr Joydeep Ghosh, Consultant - Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, high altitudes do affect the body’s hydration levels. This is because higher elevations cause the body to work harder and breathe faster than usual in an effort to inhale more oxygen, he explains, adding that loss of water simply means loss of electrolytes in the body. So, if the person is not consuming enough water to restore the electrolytes, it could potentially result in dehydration.
A 2006 study that looked at the hydration status of military mountaineers at high altitude found that dehydration was a common problem.
Researchers attributed the cause to a combination of factors, including increased urine production caused by the cold environment, higher energy expenditure, and limited access to water.
The study also found that while fluid intake varied among individuals, those with higher intake generally had lower urine output, indicating better hydration.
Additionally, climbing higher altitudes involves increased physical activity and exertion, which means one loses more fluid through sweat. If water intake is inadequate, it raises the risk of dehydration.
Signs Of Dehydration
Some of the common signs and symptoms of dehydration at high altitudes include:
- Increased thirst than usual
- Darker urine
- Dry skin, mouth, throat, lips, and eye areas
- Dizziness due to low blood pressure
- Unusual tiredness and fatigue
- A feeling of discomfort in the kidneys
- Irregular urination
- Drop in the body temperature
- Increased pulse rate
Also Read: Hydration Hacks: 6 Simple Ways To Stay Hydrated
How To Prevent Dehydration In High-Altitude Locations![]()
To prevent dehydration in high-altitude locations, here are some measures you can take:
- Remaining hydrated by drinking adequate water often, particularly electrolyte-infused water.
- Including foods with high water content can also be helpful.
- Eating carbohydrate-rich food to get more energy.
- Limiting excessive physical exertion.
- Climbing slowly.
- Resting between mountain climbs to allow the body to repair
Conclusion
Travelling or climbing to high altitudes significantly affects how your body functions, particularly in terms of hydration. The lower oxygen levels and dry air can lead to increased fluid loss, making dehydration a common concern. To avoid these changes, it is important to stay mindful of your body's needs by drinking plenty of water and adjusting your fluid intake according to the environment.