This summer, record temperatures have made headlines around the world, and it seems as though it’s just getting started. As the mercury continues to climb, communities are bracing for an increase in heat-related emergencies like dehydration. Unfortunately, this condition can be serious, even fatal, but if you don’t know how to tell it’s happening it can be difficult to stop. Here’s a closer look at a few lesser-known ways dehydration can affect your total body and oral health, and what you can do to prevent it!
Unexplained Exhaustion
Whether you’ve gotten a good night’s sleep and are still feeling lethargic, or you’ve been kept awake at night because it’s too hot to relax, dehydration can take its toll on your rest. Thus, be sure to get plenty of water throughout the day, and a little bit more before bedtime, so you’re not constantly getting up to use the restroom when you should be getting shuteye!
Off-Hour Hunger
Didn’t you just eat? If it hasn’t been all that long since your last meal and you’re suddenly feeling hungry, it may not have anything to do with dinner. In fact, it could just be that you’re dehydrated. That’s because the area in your brain that notifies you that you’re thirsty and hungry is the same place: the hypothalamus. So, while you may think it’s snack time, it could just be that you’re dehydrated, and you should try drinking a glass of water before eating again.
Flulike Symptoms
While it’s not impossible to get the flu in the heat of the summer, it’s not common, either. If you suddenly notice flu like symptoms such as nausea, fever, chills, or lightheadedness, it very well could be influenza, or it may be that you need to drink water, stat. In fact, in cases of more severe dehydration, many of these symptoms are identical, so do your best to stay hydrated throughout the day, and if you find yourself feeling unexpectedly ill, get out of the heat, drink water, and seek emergency assistance if your symptoms persist.
Muscle Mayhem
Your muscles need electrolytes to stay hydrated and work properly, but when you’re dehydrated it can cause them to spasm or cramp. That’s because that lack of water and essential nutrients can drain your potassium and sodium levels. In fact, not only are you at risk for this if you’ve been playing sports or working out, but even activities like yardwork or walking to a far away parking spot or tourist destination can increase your risk of muscle pain and dehydration in excessive heat. Thus, if you must physically exert yourself this summer, keep a bottle of water on hand, and try to avoid heading out in the warmth during peak hours if possible.
Mouth Matters
Finally, be on the lookout for signs of dry mouth. While this one seems like an obvious indication that you need some H2O, the truth is that many people don’t pay attention to it, and it’s actually more dangerous than you might think. That’s because in addition to affecting you in the moment, long-term dry mouth can create ideal conditions for oral bacteria to flourish, increasing your risk of things like bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. To prevent these problems and keep your body running at optimal levels, don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and if you’re noticing signs of persistent oral health problems, reach out to your dentist for help!
Remember, although extremely important, thirstiness is just one possible symptom of dehydration. If you are noticing any of the above warning signs, don’t brush them off or wait to see if they go away on their own. Do your best to get out of the heat, drink some water, and if symptoms persist, seek emergency attention. In the meantime, to avoid dehydration and its related risks to your oral and overall health, be sure to keep a bottle of H2O on hand and pay attention to the heat index to know when to stay indoors if necessary.
About Our Practice
At Epic Family Dentistry of Carrollton, Dr. Cao and Dr. Azmoodeh know summer is just beginning to heat up here in Texas, which is why it’s so important to pay close attention to those lesser-known signals your body may be sending you. If you’ve noticed any odd oral health changes such as persistent dry mouth, an increase in gum inflammation or bad breath, or even receding gums or tooth pain, don’t write it off until fall. Schedule an appointment for a checkup and cleaning with us today by visiting our website or calling 972-820-7294 and get a smile as warm and bright as the season!