Dehydration Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, Signs and Effects on MedicineNet.com

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Dehydration (cont.)

Environment: Dehydration due to the weather is a preventable condition. If possible, activities should not be scheduled in the heat of the day. If they are, adequate fluids should be available and people should be monitored to make certain they are safe.

Those working in hot environments need to take care to rehydrate often.

Exercise: People exercising in a hot environment need to drink adequate amounts of water.
Age: The young and elderly are most at risk. During heat waves, attempts should be made to check on the elderly in their homes. During the Chicago heat wave of 1995, more than 600 people died in their homes from heat exposure.
Heat related conditions: Know the signs and symptoms of heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Preventing dehydration is one step to avoid these conditions.

Last Editorial Review: 7/28/2008

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