Stay Hydrated & Stay Healthy

On or Off the field, it's important to stay hydrated.

So busy are we during sports activities or during the regular course of the day that we often forget to hydrate ourselves.  During moderate exercise in the Texas summer heat, that's the last thing you want to do. During intense physical activity, that's the worse thing you want to do.

If we forego water breaks, we could easily experience symptoms of dehydration.  The symptoms can range from dizziness, cramping, and headache to more serious fainting, coma, and even death.  

A multitude of dehydration-related deaths occur each year across the spectrum of highly intensive activities, and are especially prevalent throughout the South and Southwest. Therefore, not taking the necessary steps toward hydration can be a very quick and detrimental matter.  With 60% of the human body made up of water, even a slight dehydration can negatively impact an athlete's performance, putting him or her at risk even that much more.

Aside from helping to protect us from heat exhaustion and over-exertion of the body, proper water (or sports drink) intake also assists in muscle repair and function, as well as overall health.  

Fortunately, coaches and trainers in organized sports are typically ultra-aware of the need to hydrate their athletes.  Many include mandatory "rehydration periods" during practice and during the game. However, it's up to the individual athlete to drink what they need.

As untreated dehydration can quickly result in heatstroke, what are some of the telltale signs that our bodies are lacking sufficient liquid?  A lack of sweating or urination, headaches, fatigue, rapid pulse, nausea, and pale skin are some of the signs of dehydration, among others. 

Remember to keep it safe, keep it cool, and drink lots of water or sport drinks to help keep you at the top of your game.

Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.

Lubbock Sports Medicine

Dr. Kevin Crawford, MD

4110 22nd Place Lubbock, TX 79409

(806) 792-4329