Staying Hydrated in the Sierras

Our bodies lose fluids faster at altitude. It takes a little bit of extra care to stay hydrated at higher elevations. Whether your relaxing, boating, biking, hiking, running, climbing, or paddling it is important to carry extra fluids. Your body's effort to cope with less oxygen and low humidity can cause changes to your electrolytes (salts) and your body's balance of fluid and salts.

You may be low on fluids even before you feel thirsty. Caffeine, sugary drinks can cause you to lose additional fluids from your body. Water is the best form of hydration. Dehydration can hit abruptedly, or slowly. Dehydration is a serious condition and can require medical attention. At Gateway Urgent Care we can re-hydrate patients very quickly and easily with intravenous fluids.
 
Signs of dehydration

• Increased heart rate
• Increased respiration
• Decreased sweating
• Decreased urination
• Increased body temperature
• Extreme fatigue  
• Muscle cramps
• Headaches
• Nausea

 
Remember the end point of re-hydration is your urine output. Enjoy your stay in the Sierra's. Be Safe, and Hydrate.

The Team at Gateway Urgent Care