Contrary to common knowledge, it’s very much possible to get dehydrated even if the weather is cold. In fact, it’s sometimes more common to get dehydrated in cold weather than in hot weather.
Cold weather dehydration happens because of increased urine production and lower thirst response. When the weather’s cold, our body moves blood and other fluids from the extremities towards the core, thus increasing urine production. This also causes a decrease in thirst response because it fools our body into thinking that it’s properly hydrated since it’s not conserving water. This is why a lot of people end up going to a family clinic in Lanham, Maryland for help during cold months.
Additionally, cold weather dehydration also happens because we think we’re not losing too much liquid. After all, we don’t sweat as much. This, of course, isn’t true. We still sweat it’s just that it evaporates quickly. Besides sweat, we also lose fluid through respiratory water loss. The foggy breath that’s commonly associated with the cold season is water vapor that we’re expelling.
Keep yourself hydrated during cold weather, don’t rely on your thirst response. Drink even when you’re not thirsty and make it a point to drink a certain amount of liquids every day. Also, don’t hesitate to go to a primary care provider in Maryland if you suspect dehydration.
Patient Centered Health Care provides a wide range of services for children aged 13 and up and also seniors. We provide immunizations, disease management services, and even medication training.
If you want to know more about cold season dehydration or CPR, visit us!
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