The heatwave that has swept across Ireland is showing no signs of slowing down at the moment.
Temperatures in the day are set to hit 30C in some parts of Ireland, with a status orange heat warning issued for six counties on top of a nationwide status yellow heat warning.
It's going to be so warm that night time temperatures will not drop below 20C, according to current forecasts.
One of the hidden hells of the heatwave, though, is dehydration.
Dehydration means that your body does not have enough fluid. If it's not treated, it can become a serious problem.
It's particularly important at the moment too, as if you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 you may be more likely to become dehydrated.
Here's what to do if you think you have it, how to spot it and how to deal with it according to the HSE.
Adults:
Symptoms of dehydration in adults include
- feeling thirsty
- dark yellow and strong-smelling pee - healthy pee should look pale yellow or as close to clear as possible
- feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- feeling tired
- dry mouth, lips and eyes
- peeing little, and fewer than 4 times a day
Dehydration can happen more easily if you have:
- a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more
- diabetes
- vomiting or diarrhoea
- been in the sun too long (heatstroke)
- drunk too much alcohol
- sweated too much after exercising
- been taking medicines that make you pee more (diuretics)
Babies and children
Babies and children are more at risk of dehydration than adults.
Dehydration in young children is common. It can be serious if it's not dealt with quickly.
Phone your GP if you think your child is dehydrated and they:
- are under 6 months old
- have a chronic medical condition
- are not improving after they are given more fluids
- start showing signs that they need urgent medical help
When to get urgent medical help
Take your baby or child to your GP or emergency department (ED) urgently if they:
- seem drowsy (hard to wake)
- are breathing fast
- have few or no tears when they cry
- have a soft spot on their head that sinks inwards (sunken fontanelle)
- have a dry mouth
- have dark yellow pee or have not had a pee in last 12 hours
- have cold and blotchy-looking hands and feet
- are extremely thirsty
- are pale
- have less energy than usual
- have less than 3 wet nappies per day
- seem confused
How to prevent dehydration
Drink more fluids when you feel any dehydration symptoms. The best fluids to drink are water or oral rehydration sachets.
If you find it hard to drink because you feel sick or have been vomiting, start with small sips and then gradually drink more.
Drink enough during the day so your pee is a pale clear colour.
Drink plenty of fluids if you are vomiting, have diarrhoea or if you are sweating a lot. You might be at higher risk of dehydration at these times.
