Heat

How to manage dehydration due to hot or dry conditions

Hot or dry conditions make us more vulnerable to dehydration. These conditions typically occur in summer when there are extended periods of warm or sunny days. Babies, young children, the elderly, pregnant and nursing mothers and people who are overweight are particularly vulnerable.

Heat-related dehydration can also occur when we are active outdoors in warm weather, even if it is not summer.

The body uses perspiration to cool itself down and in that process, water and electrolytes can be lost.

Be aware of the signs of mild to moderate dehydration such as:

  • decreased urine output or dark yellow urine
  • sweating
  • lethargy (tiredness)
  • dry mouth and increased thirst
  • headache
  • muscle cramping
  • dizziness

Heat-related dehydration can result in cramping due to depletion of salts (electrolytes). Heat cramps are muscle pains and spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms of legs.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions and it is important to seek medical attention promptly if these are suspected. Symptoms of these conditions are available on several State government websites (reference below).

Suggested Dosage



The dosage will depend greatly on the type of conditions, level of activity and duration of exposure.

General guidelines:

Drink Hydralyte only when thirsty or exhibiting the signs of dehydration. Freely consume fresh drinking water outside of the occasions when you are taking Hydralyte.

Start with a small amount first e.g. 1 or 2 ice blocks or a single 200 ml dose.

Do not exceed the following maximum daily doses, except under medical advice:

Children 10 – 13 years: Take up to 4 x 200 ml doses daily for up to 3 days, or as directed by your healthcare professional

13 years to Adult: Take up to 7 x 200 ml doses daily for up to 3 days, or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Warnings

Hydralyte contains approximately 0.8 mg/ml Potassium. If you have kidney disease or are taking heart or blood pressure medicines – consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. Hydralyte contains sodium. Check actual packaging for content.

References