First Responders Update 

As the temperature rises and the typical Savannah humidity starts to fog up our glasses, we need to remember how important it is to stay hydrated. We’ve been blessed with mild temperatures most of April and May. However, that is swiftly changing.

When playing outdoor sports, walking, riding bikes, and even playing in the pool, the heat can creep up on all of us and if we aren’t properly hydrated, it can knock us off our feet. Make sure you drink A LOT before going into the heat. While participating in outdoor activities continue to stay vigilant about drinking. Keep in mind, with the new normal created by COVID-19, you likely will need to bring fluids with you as community water may be hard to find. 

I wrote last summer about someone thinking consuming three beers while playing golf was “hydrating”. Let me be the first to tell you, that is false information. Following is a direct quote from a physician.

“Yes, alcohol can dehydrate you. Alcohol is a diuretic. It causes your body to remove fluids from your blood through your renal system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, and bladder, at a much quicker rate than other liquids. If you don’t drink enough water with alcohol you can become dehydrated quickly.”

I’m not here to be a party pooper, I’m just asking that you be smart about your consumption of liquids during the hottest time of the year. Keep water or Gatorade handy when enjoying outdoor activities.

Heat stroke isn’t anything to scoff at because it’s real and scary. Heat stroke usually occurs when your body temperature gets above 105°. Keep in mind that one of the earliest signs of ANY heat-reacted illness is simply just not feeling right.

Parents of young children, please keep in mind that if your child is very young, they might not be able to express to you when they’re not feeling right until it’s too late. Kids will tell you they’re not thirsty, but you must make them drink anyway.

I wish all of you a safe, fun, and heathy summer. If you ever feel like you are in need of medical attention when you’re questioning whether you might be experiencing signs and symptoms of dehydration, don’t wait!! Call 912-355-6688, and help will be on the way.