Home » Dehydration
Tag:

Dehydration

6 Important Reasons to Keep Hydrated this Summer
Health Tips

6 Important Reasons to Keep Hydrated this Summer

by Silverado
written by Silverado

Our bodies are over seventy percent water, so the importance of drinking enough H2O goes far beyond cooling down on a hot day or quenching your thirst. The human body needs to be properly hydrated to function. Not enough water can affect things like muscle function, joint and brain protection, immune health, digestion and even mood. 6 Important Reasons to Keep Hydrated this Summer
Here are just a few reasons it’s important to get your eight* glasses of water a day!

  1. Keep Bladder and Kidneys Healthy –
    Because water helps to flush out any unwanted microbes, well hydrated people have fewer bladder or kidney infections.
  2. Weight Control –
    Drinking water instead of soda or sugary juices helps eliminate empty calories from your diet.
  3. The (Drinking) Fountain of Youth –
    Keeping hydrated helps ensure that your skin keeps elastic, that it can properly rid itself of toxins, lessening your risk of conditions like dermatitis, aging skin and infection.
  4. Maintaining Energy Levels –
    Water is essential to the biological processes that turn food and stored fat into energy. If there isn’t enough water to make that happen, lethargy and sleepiness can follow.
  5. Mood Enhancement –
    Feeling a little grumpy? Make sure you’ve had enough water, since it aids in body regulation and brain function, which is related to balancing mood and emotions.
  6. Keeping on the Move –
    Most of the padding in cartilage is made up of water, so if we don’t drink enough of it, our bones will feel stiff and our joints sore. Getting enough water also helps joints bounce back faster after workouts, and expedites healing of injuries.

* Your water needs may vary — please ask your doctor about your optimal water intake.

6 Important Reasons to Keep Hydrated this Summer

6 Important Reasons to Keep Hydrated this Summer

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Conditions & Treatments

Tips for preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis During Travel

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

If you plan on taking a long trip, you should be aware of a vein disorder that is especially prevalent for travelers over 50.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when a blot clot forms in a deep leg vein. DVT has fatal potential because a clot could travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. The condition usually occurs in the calf and travelers are at increased risk of DVT during long plane or car rides.

The main cause of DVT is sluggish blood flow due to long periods of inactivity. Many travelers will spend up to 2 hours or more sitting in one spot during a long trip. This slowing blood flow can result in clotting, obstructing venous return, and cause your legs to swell.

Anyone who is older and has taken a long plane flight is familiar with the swelling you experience in the foot and calf areas. This swelling happens to most people, but it is more noticeable for someone who is suffering from a vein disorder.

The most common signs of DVT during your trip is a sudden unexplained pain in your calf accompanied by swelling.

DVT is a serious condition, but there are simple steps that can be taken to prevent it from occurring during long periods of travel.

Hydrate

Make sure you are drinking enough water during any long trip. When you have dehydrated your blood thickens, increasing your risk for a blood clot. The air you breathing when you are flying is very dry air and contributes to your body’s loss of water so make sure you hydrate during the entirety of your travels.

You must also avoid alcohol and coffee since these liquids will dehydrate you.

Get the blood flowing

The key to preventing DVT is to prevent sluggish blood flow. Stand up and get your blood pumping. Get up frequently and walk around the aisle, if you are in your car, make a pit stop. You should walk around at least once every two hours.

Your movements should be more pronounced than simply flexing your ankles. A recent study demonstrated that it is the shifting of your weight on alternate feet that is necessary to achieve adequate blood flow. So, walking is key to get the blood flowing and decrease your chances for DVT.

Take some medicine

Aspirin before your flight can go a long way in reducing your risk of DVT. Aspirin is a blood thinner, which means they can prevent your blood platelets from clumping together and creating a clot.

Consult with your doctor before using drugs like Aspirin as a preventive measure because some of the side effects are bleeding and stomach irritation.

Wear a compression stocking

Compression stockings are special stockings or socks that apply a pressure gradient to your lower leg in order to maintain blood flow and help reduce swelling. You can purchase a compression stocking at your local drug store, online, or at your local medical supply store.

Compression stockings are most often used as a form of therapy after an individual is recovering from DVT, but the stocking can be preventative. I would recommend purchasing a stocking with at least mild compression strength (15-20 mmHg) this will help travelers who have mild spider veins, slight varicose veins, and aching legs.

You can find an economy brand compression stocking at your local drug store for $30 to $40. We also recommend shopping at Senior.com.

Wear your compression stockings anytime you are traveling for long periods of time.

Taking these precautions will help you prevent DVT and help you avoid annoying leg swelling during your trip.

If you suspect you are suffering from DVT, do not delay medical attention. It is a medical emergency and immediate treatment can be life-saving. An ultrasound is required to ensure there are no blood clots. This usually can only be accomplished in a timely manner in an emergency room.

Dr. Lawrence Presant, is the Chief Medical Officer at Arizona Vein Specialists. He is a Diplomat of The American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine

 

 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Diet & Nutrition

How Much Daily Water Does the Body Need?

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

A book that caught my eye, or should say, a book’s title that caught my eye, Your Bodies Many Cries for Water: You’re not sick, You’re Thirsty, by F. Batmanghelidj, M.D. The title got my attention.

It’s based on a pioneering physician’s twenty years of clinical and scientific research into the role of water in the body and explains a breakthrough discovery that Unintentional Chronic Dehydration produces stress, chronic pains and many painful degenerative diseases.

The physician author says, “Dry Mouth is not the only sign of dehydration; and waiting to get thirsty is wrong. And simply adjusting your water intake can help you live a healthier pain-free life.”

The pains of dehydration

  • Irritability,
  • indigestion,
  • heart pain on walking,
  • low back pain,
  • leg pain on walking,
  • migraines,
  • and constipation.

 

And should be treated by drinking 2.5 quarts of water each day. That’s about 10 glasses of water.

Disclaimer: Talk with you doctor if you’re feeling any of these pains – don’t assume it’s dehydration.Plus, if you have kidney disease or congestive heart failure, you should not use water cures unless you are under medical supervision and the doctor says to practice this protocol.

Did you know? In a normal day, we lose about 10 to 15 cups of water?

I began adding more water two weeks ago by increasing to 10 or 11 glasses depending on how long I walk outside in the heat. The first thing I noticed is more energy and lessened fatigue. Second, I don’t get as hungry.

The book suggests both water and salt are essential for optimal health. Salt being the unprocessed kind. Unprocessed salt has sodium, chloride and up to 82 other trace minerals.

Based on the work of Dr. B and the current research, as a goal, try to eat at least 1/8th tsp of salt with each 10 to 16 ounces of water to start. Adjust it up or down based on your needs as you discover how it works to help you get optimal performance. Those who are sick may need to start at a higher amount, say 1/8th tsp for every 8 to 10 ounces depending on what they are dealing with. Some who are salt sensitive may need less salt.

Other benefits:

  • Sleep better
  • Stop leg cramps now and forever
  • Normalize blood pressure
  • Eliminate headaches
  • End your depression
  • Cancel terminal cancer and exceed your expiration date
  • Help manage over 76 diseases or conditions.
  • Skin problems
  • Stomach ulcers

 

Dr. B claims that people do not drink enough water, they do not drink the right kind of water and they are not taking in enough of the proper electrolytes with their water to help the water get into their cells.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health Tips

Dehydration Tips

by Andrew Vertson
written by Andrew Vertson

Summer is now here… as we approach the “heat of the summer” you should be aware of your need for fluids. If you are exercising, spending time in the sun, or are under the weather, you can more easily become dehydrated. Once dehydration starts your body begins to shut down, except for vital functions. Luckily the body gives us symptoms to prevent dehydration from happening.

The body will react to the need for water by giving of signs that you should recognize. The initial signs and symptoms of mild dehydration, in adults, start to appear when a person has lost approximately 2% of their total fluid.

Dehydration symptoms:

  • Dry lips and thirst
  • Dry, flushing , skin
  • Fatigue, muscle weakness

 

If the dehydration continues, approaching 5% of water loss, more significant symptoms occur such as:

  • Increased heart rate and breathing
  • Increased body temperature
  • Decreased sweating and urination
  • Extreme fatigue and muscle cramping
  • Severe headache and nausea

 

As the body approaches 10% fluid loss, it is a medical emergency and you must seek IMMEDIATE help. Symptoms of this level of dehydration are: Dehydration Tips

  • Decreased vision and confusion
  • Vomiting
  • Chest/abdominal pain
  • Unconsciousness

Urine color Warning Sign:

We don’t have a water gauge to determine how dehydrated our body is but our body does provide us some indication of our level of hydration. The best indicator is the color of our urine. A clear, or slightly colored, urine shows good hydration while a dark yellow urine color signals dehydration.

How much water should you consume?

You have probably heard many experts say eight, 8 ounce, glasses of water per day. That is a good start but if you are extremely active, work in a hot environment, or live in a warmer climate that might not be enough.
A good indicator of water intake is 50 to 75% of your body weight in ounces. For the average person: take your body weight, cut it in half, and that is the number of ounces you should drink in a day. If you are more active, or work/live in a hotter environment, then add 25% more to your number of ounces. Dehydration Tips

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Diet & Nutrition

Preventing Heat Stress & Heat Stroke in Seniors

by Richard Bitner
written by Richard Bitner

For many people, summer is the year’s most enjoyable season. But for seniors, the extreme temperatures of July and August can represent a serious health concern. At Visiting Angels, our elderly care providers take extra care every summer to protect seniors against the dangers of heat stress and heat stroke, both of which can be especially dangerous for seniors, so we know how crucial protecting seniors against the heat can be. Preventing Heat Stress & Heat Stroke in Seniors

There are many reasons why heat stroke is a particular concern among the elderly. Unlike younger adults, seniors’ bodies have trouble regulating temperature. As a result, seniors can experience heat stress more quickly than others. Seniors also have more trouble detecting changes in their own body temperature, so they often rely on family members, friends, or elderly care providers to look out for signs of heat stress. Finally, seniors’ existing medical conditions can put them at higher risk of complications or medical episodes during heat stress.

If you are concerned about heat stress and heat stroke in an elderly loved one, the following information will help you keep your loved one protected. Preventing Heat Stress & Heat Stroke in Seniors

Preventing Heat Stress in Seniors

While heat stress and heat stroke are considerable dangers for seniors, there are steps you can take to lower the risk of heat stress in the elderly. As soon as it starts to get hot out, there are a number of things you can do to limit your loved one’s risk of heat stress:

  • Ensure seniors drink plenty of fluids when the temperature rises.
  • If possible, keep seniors in a cool, climate-controlled area, especially during the warmest times of the day.
  • When going outdoors, have seniors wear plenty of sunscreen.
  • Have seniors wear light and loose clothing and a shady hat when outdoors.
  • Keep seniors in shady areas as much as possible and prevent exposure to direct sunlight.
  • Make sure seniors don’t over-exert themselves when experiencing hot temperatures.

Know the Signs of Heat Stress & Heat Stroke

If you are an elderly care provider for a family member, it is important that you are aware of the signs of heat stress and heat stroke. This way, if your loved one begins to experience heat-related distress, you will be able to take immediate action.
Some of the signs of heat stress (body temperature between 99° F and 102° F) you should be aware of include:

  • Skin appears pale, is cool to the touch
  • Complaints of muscle cramps, headache, dizziness, or nausea
  • Excessive sweating
  • Pulse becomes faster and weaker
  • Breathing becomes faster and more shallow
  • Person appears tired or weak

 

A person suffering from heat stress may quickly develop heat stroke (body temperature above 103° F) — a dangerous and life-threatening condition. Once a person begins to suffer from heat stroke, their symptoms may change, and can include:

  • Skins turns red, becomes hot to the touch
  • Person stops sweating, skin feels dry
  • Severe headache, dizziness, and nausea
  • Pulse very rapid and weak
  • Breathing increasingly shallow
  • Fainting

How to Treat Heat Stress & Heat Stroke in Seniors

If you believe an elderly person in your care is experiencing heat stress, it’s important that you take action quickly. An immediate response can be the difference between life and death in many situations.
Immediate steps you should take when someone is experiencing heat stroke include:

  • Have someone call 911 as quickly as possible for emergency assistance.
  • Move the person to a cool area that is shaded from the sun.
  • Use any means possible to reduce the person’s body temperature. Cold water is one of the best ways to reduce a person’s body temperature. You can mist them with a garden hose, sponge them with cold water, have them sit in a cool shower, or immerse them in a tub of cold water.
  • If you have a thermometer, monitor the person’s temperature. You should try to get their temperature to below 102° F as quickly as possible.
  • When on the phone with 911, follow all directives provided by the emergency personnel.

 

If you are concerned about heat stress and heat stroke for an elderly family member, but worry that you can’t be there to monitor your loved one during heat waves and other high-heat periods, you may wish to consider home elderly care. Elderly care services — like those provided by your local Visiting Angels — can provide your loved one with monitoring and support during hot periods. For more information, check out this brochure on Beating the Heat.

To connect with elderly care providers in your area, contact your local Visiting Angels office today. Preventing Heat Stress & Heat Stroke in Seniors

* Note: Visiting Angels does not provide medical care. If you are concerned about your loved one’s health or risk of heat stroke, please contact their doctor. The information contained in this article is meant as informative only and should not be considered a recommendation for care, treatment or diagnosis.

Preventing Heat Stress & Heat Stroke in Seniors

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Health Tips

Summer Safety Tips For Seniors

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

With the weather getting warmer every day, there’s no doubt that summer is fast approaching. The summer can be a great time for relaxing with family and enjoying the nice weather. But it can also be dangerous if you don’t take the proper precautions. Summer Safety Tips For Seniors

Your body works hard every day to maintain a normal temperature. Excessive heat forces your body to work harder than normal, which often is the root cause of heat-related illness. Essentially the heat forces your body to work beyond its limits. For senior citizens, this can be a dangerous – and even deadly – problem.

Typically, heat-related illnesses are a direct result of prolonged exposure to the sun. This includes simple sunburns, heat exhaustion and sometimes even heat stroke. There are many different ways to combat these illnesses, however, some of which are very simple and easy to do. Here are some of the easiest ways to stay safe from the heat this summer:

Drink plenty of water. The easiest way to stay cool is also often the most overlooked. Drinking plenty of water during the hot summer months is a great way to stay hydrated and safe while out in the sun. The heat can dehydrate you quickly, so make sure to have plenty of water on hand during the day, whether you’re outdoors or not.

Protect your skin. Use sunscreen when you know you’ll be outside for a prolonged period of time during the day. It doesn’t take long to apply, and can save you a lot of suffering later. Wear a hat to lessen sun exposure to the face and neck – two spots extremely vulnerable to contact with the sun.

Limit strenuous activity and exercise. Your body works hard enough during the hot days that adding strenuous physical activity can be detrimental. If you exercise regularly, try it during the early morning or late evenings. Planning around the hottest time of the day can help to limit exposure to the heat and can be much easier on your body. Take regular breaks when possible if you have to work outdoors.

Take frequent breaks to cool down. When spending time out in the hot sun, it’s beneficial to take numerous breaks to allow your body to recover. Having a cool area in your home in which to recover can also be beneficial. Make sure your cooling device – whether you have an electric fan, a portable air conditioner or central AC – is working properly to ensure faster recovery.

Check on your friends and family. The heat can be especially difficult on young children and the elderly, so make sure to check regularly on your family, friends and neighbors during hot spells. Often heat-related issues arise before you have a chance to ask for help.

Mike Tennant is a freelance writer and columnist focusing on health and lifestyle topics. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Mike currently works with Air Conditioner Home as an online developer and consultant.

Summer Safety Tips For Seniors

Summer Safety Tips For Seniors Summer Safety Tips For Seniors Summer Safety Tips For SeniorsSummer Safety Tips For Seniors Summer Safety Tips For Seniors

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care?
Caregiving

How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care?

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Assisted Care, Not Insisted Care: Where Do You Draw the Line When It Comes to Proper Care?

Elder abuse has become an unfortunate reality for our aging population. News stories of seniors becoming the victims of abuse or neglect are all too common these days. According to a recent study conducted by the Nursing Home Abuse Center, it is estimated that between one and two million Americans, age 65 and older have been mistreated, exploited or injured by a caregiver. Unfortunately, seniors become targets of abuse because they may not have a real voice or understand what is happening around them. You can prevent your aging family from being abused by following these tips. How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care?

Be Proactive

If you’re aging family member is placed in an assisted living or nursing home, the first step to take to prevent abuse is to be proactive by checking on your loved one regularly. Regularly visiting the nursing home can help you to spot red flags and address any issues before they become a problem. Frequent visits will also show the staff that you will be observing their activities, which can help to decrease the overall occurrence of abuse.

Encourage them to Talk to You

If your elderly family member is being abused, they may be embarrassed or unsure what to do if about the situation. This is why it is so important to keep the lines of communication open, so they will feel more comfortable talking to you about potential issues. If they do ever express concern, talk to them seriously and investigate accordingly. Unfortunately, all too often, we dismiss their complaints as being nonsense or untruthful, which can lead to the abuse continuing.

Keep an Eye out for Warning Signs

According to National Center on Elder Abuse neglect is the most common form of elder abuse, followed by physical abuse. If you notice any of the following physical or emotional issues, it may be a sign that your loved one is being abused.

  • Sudden weight loss
  • Withdrawn behavior
  • Unexplained changes in mood or behavior
  • Bedsores
  • Dehydration
  • Malnutrition
  • Unsanitary conditions
  • Unexplained bruises or cuts

If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial that you address it immediately.

Immediately Report Abuse and Neglect

If you believe that your loved one isn’t receiving the care they need and deserve, it is imperative to report it immediately. The sooner you report it, the sooner you can begin to make the appropriate changes to protect your loved ones. If you feel like your loved one might be in danger, don’t hesitate to call 911 and report the abuse immediately. If you uncover abuse or neglect, you may want to seek legal help with abuse in assisted care facilities to discuss your legal options.
If you suspect the nursing home or assisted living facility where you’re loved one life is abusing or neglecting them, it is up to you to stop it. Always be vigilant and take concerns seriously. Elder abuse has become a real issue, and you have the power to stop it and prevent it from happening to anyone else.

How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care?

How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care? How do you spot Elder Abuse in Assisted Care?

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Signs of Dehydration
Conditions & Treatments

Signs of Dehydration

by Andrew Vertson
written by Andrew Vertson
We are in the heat of summer and it’s important that understand the basics about keeping your body healthy with fluids so you can prevent dehydration. If you are exercising, spending time in the sun, or are under the weather, you can more easily become dehydrated. Once dehydration starts your body begins to shut down, except for vital functions. Luckily the body gives us symptoms to prevent dehydration from happening. Signs of Dehydration
 
The body will react to the need for water by giving of signs that you should recognize. The initial signs and symptoms of mild dehydration, in adults, start to appear when a person has lost approximately 2% of their total fluid.
Initial signs of dehydration are:

  • Dry lips and thirst
  • Dry, flushing , skin
  • Fatigue, muscle weakness

If the dehydration continues, approaching 5% of water loss, more significant symptoms occur such as:

  • Increased heart rate and breathing
  • Increased body temperature
  • Decreased sweating and urination
  • Extreme fatigue and muscle cramping
  • Severe headache and nausea

As the body approaches 10% fluid loss, it is a medical emergency and you must seek IMMEDIATE help. Symptoms of this level of dehydration are: Signs of Dehydration

  • Decreased vision and confusion
  • Vomiting
  • Chest/abdominal pain
  • Unconsciousness

We don’t have a water gauge to determine how dehydrated our body is but our body does provide us some indication of our level of hydration. The best indicator is the color of our urine. A clear, or slightly colored, urine shows good hydration while a dark yellow urine color signals dehydration. Are You Dehydrated?
How much water should you consume? You have probably heard many experts say eight, 8 ounce, glasses of water per day. That is a good start but if you are extremely active, work in a hot environment, or live in a warmer climate that might not be enough. Signs of Dehydration
A good indicator of water intake is 50 to 75% of your body weight in ounces. For the average person: take your body weight, cut it in half, and that is the number of ounces you should drink in a day. If you are more active, or work/live in a hotter environment, then add 25% more to your number of ounces. Signs of Dehydration

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail