Urologically speaking...

Dehydration increases the risk of developing bothersome kidney stones and urinary tract infections which can interfere with day-to-day activities, writes Dr Sreedhar Reddy

Dehydration is a common problem that most people face during summer. It occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in, leading to a decrease in the overall fluid volume in the body. Dehydration can have serious consequences for urological health, leading to many bladder-related issues.

Dehydration during the summer can lead to several diseases and health conditions. Some of the most common diseases and conditions caused by dehydration during summer include:

Heat exhaustion: Heat exhaustion takes place when the body loses too much fluid and electrolytes through sweating. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat.

Heatstroke: A heatstroke is a severe form of heat illness that can occur when a person’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels. It can cause symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and even coma.

Constipation: Dehydration during the summer can cause constipation as the colon absorbs too much water, leading to hard and dry stools that are difficult to pass. To prevent constipation during summer, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, having a high-fibre diet, and staying active are very important.

Kidney stones: Kidney stones are another potential consequence of dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, the urine becomes more concentrated and the minerals and other substances get accumulated in the kidney, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These stones can cause severe pain and may require surgery to remove them. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): When the body is dehydrated, it produces less urine, making it easier for bacteria to multiply and lead to UTIs. UTIs can cause painful urination, frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

In severe cases, UTIs can lead to kidney infections, which can cause long-term damage to the kidneys. Dehydration can also lead to bladder problems. When the bladder is not fully emptied, it can lead to urinary retention, which can cause discomfort and increase the risk of infection.

In some cases, chronic dehydration can lead to bladder stones, which can cause blockages and require surgery to remove.

In addition to these urological problems, dehydration can also have a negative impact on overall health. It can cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness, making staying active and enjoying summer activities difficult. Preventive measures to avoid dehydration:

To prevent dehydration and its negative consequences, drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is important throughout the day. Other fluids, such as sports drinks or fruit juices, can also be helpful but should be consumed in moderation due to their high sugar content.

Avoid the intake of alcohol and caffeine, as it increases urine output leading to dehydration.

In addition to staying hydrated, taking breaks from the sun and heat is also important. Spending too much time in the sun can increase the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Taking frequent breaks in the shade, wearing loose, breathable clothing, and using sunscreen can help prevent these problems.

By staying hydrated, taking breaks from the sun and heat, and taking other preventative measures, it is possible to enjoy a safe and healthy summer season. If one experiences symptoms of dehydration or other urological problems, it is important to seek medical attention right away to prevent long-term damage to one’s health.

Dehydration is a serious concern, especially during the summer months, and it can have a significant impact on urological health.

Dehydration can increase the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections, which can be painful and disruptive to daily life. To prevent dehydration and its effects on urological health, it is important to stay hydrated and take other precautions during the summer months.

(The author is a urologist.)