Covering the heatwave surging through Kolkata, Lopamudra, an anchor at the Kolkata branch of Doordarshan, a famous television channel in India, fainted on live TV. She reported feeling particularly parched that morning and didn't find a chance to drink water due to the long broadcasting hours.
In a Facebook video, she reassured people that she was better now, and suffered the episode due to intense heat and low blood pressure. Lopamudra's case also highlights the importance of keeping yourself hydrated and how dehydration can affect the body.
Side Effects of Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in, leading to a range of adverse effects on health and well-being. Understanding the side effects of dehydration is crucial for maintaining proper hydration levels.
Water is essential for proper functioning of every cell, tissue, and organ in the body. As per a study conducted by Saudi Arabian researchers, when dehydration sets in, the body struggles to maintain balance, resulting in various side effects that can range from mild discomfort to serious health complications. Here are the key side effects of dehydration:
- Thirst and Dry Mouth: The initial signs of dehydration often manifest as thirst and a dry or sticky feeling in the mouth. These cues indicate the body's need for more fluids.
- Dark Urine: Dehydration leads to concentrated urine, which appears darker and brighter in colour than usual. Monitoring urine colour can provide insights into hydration status.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Lack of adequate hydration can cause fatigue, lethargy, and a feeling of weakness as the body's energy levels drop.
- Headaches: Dehydration is a common trigger for headaches and migraines. Proper hydration can help alleviate or prevent these discomforts.
- Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Dehydration can affect blood pressure and circulation, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting in severe cases.
- Dry Skin and Lips: Insufficient hydration can result in dry, flaky skin and chapped lips, as the body prioritises water for essential functions over external moisture.
- Muscle Cramps: Dehydration can cause electrolyte imbalances, leading to muscle cramps, spasms, and reduced muscle performance during physical activity.
- Impaired Cognitive Function: Dehydration can impair cognitive function, including memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities, affecting overall mental performance.
- Constipation: Reduced water intake can lead to constipation and digestive discomfort, as water is essential for maintaining healthy bowel movements.
- Increased Heart Rate: Dehydration can elevate heart rate and strain the cardiovascular system, particularly during physical exertion or heat exposure.
- Kidney Stones: Chronic dehydration can contribute to the formation of kidney stones due to concentrated urine and reduced flushing of minerals from the urinary tract.
- Heat-related Illnesses: Severe dehydration, especially in hot climates or during intense physical activity, can increase the risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other heat-related illnesses.
Tips for Maintaining Proper Hydration
To prevent the side effects of dehydration, follow these tips for maintaining proper hydration:
- Drink an adequate amount of water daily, aiming for at least 8-10 cups for most adults.
- Monitor urine colour to ensure it is pale yellow, indicating proper hydration.
- Consume hydrating foods like fruits, vegetables, and soups.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can contribute to dehydration.
- Stay hydrated during physical activity and in hot weather by drinking water before, during, and after.
- Consider electrolyte-rich drinks for prolonged or intense exercise sessions.
- Pay attention to thirst cues and drink water regularly throughout the day.
By prioritising hydration and being mindful of the signs and side effects of dehydration, you can support overall health and well-being. After all, none of us want episodes similar to Lopamudra. Fainting spells can be dangerous, especially if you are in an unfamiliar or unpredictable setting like on the road or LIVE TV! So beware of this seemingly harmless health issue, keep guzzling water, and protect your health in hot weather.