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In the summer, a slight dehydration might bring on headaches, diminish mental alertness and cause an increase in weariness.
News18
Neurologists are warning that with summer temperatures being on a constant rise and heatwave-like conditions continuing in parts of the country, the danger of dehydration is increasing, and so is the effect on brain health. The brain relies on appropriate hydration to keep mood, memory, focus and nerve activity in check.
A slight dehydration might bring on headaches, diminish mental alertness and cause an increase in weariness. Some everyday practices could unwittingly increase dehydration and put stress on the nervous system in excessive temperatures. Here are some lifestyle mistakes that Dr Kunal Bahrani, Chairman & Group Director – Neurology at Yatharth Hospitals, believe is a sure way to damage your brain health in the summer.
Drinking soda/coffee instead of water
One of the most prevalent blunders is substituting water with caffeinated or sweetened drinks. Many people feel rejuvenated by drinking a lot of coffee, tea, soft drinks or energy drinks throughout a hard day at work. But too much coffee might lead to more fluid loss through frequent urination and may exacerbate dehydration. Dehydration is said to cause a reduction in blood flow and oxygen to the brain which can result in dizziness, poor attention, irritability and migraines, say neurologists. Combining energy drinks and heat exposure may also raise heart rate and amplify physical fatigue.
Working out in extreme heat
Another huge worry is working out during high heat hours. Outdoor running, high-intensity workouts and long afternoon gym sessions are among the fitness trends that can swiftly elevate your body temperature. When you sweat profusely without replacing electrolytes, the balance of sodium and potassium, which contribute to the healthy functioning of nerves and muscles, is affected. Neurologists say that overheating can cause confusion, muscle cramps, fainting and, in extreme cases, heatstroke that directly damages the brain. People with epilepsy, migraine disorders or blood pressure issues are thought to be especially sensitive in intense temperatures.
Being dehydrated unknowingly
Ignoring early indicators of dehydration is another dangerous practice. Many ignore symptoms like dry mouth, headaches, feeling unusually weary, problems concentrating or dizziness as just being tired or stressed. These are often the earliest neurological signs of fluid imbalance in the body, doctors say. If left untreated, dehydration can cause serious weakness, confusion and even momentary loss of consciousness. People working in offices, students and people spending long hours in air-conditioned environs are also at danger. This is due to the fact that cold settings indoors can lessen the sense of thirst and water intake can be inadequate.
Not sleeping enough
Summer sleep patterns are also impacting hydration and cognitive health. High temperatures at night may interfere with sleep quality and prevent the body from recovering from heat stress. Sleep deprivation and dehydration can impact cognitive performance, lead to mood changes and cause anxiety or migraine episodes to flare up. Neurologists say it’s important to ensure good sleep to keep brain activity healthy, especially during extreme weather.
Missing meals
Some people deliberately avoid heavy meals in hot weather while some crash-diet to lose weight. Poor food intake, however, lowers the body’s electrolytes and its capacity to maintain water balance. Minerals and fluids are obtained from fruits, vegetables and well-balanced meals in order for the brain and nerves to work properly.
Not drinking enough water
Experts say you should be drinking water throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty. You can also stay hydrated by eating foods that are rich in water such as watermelon, cucumber and oranges. Neurologists also recommend avoiding extra caffeine, avoiding the outdoors during the height of the afternoon heat, and detecting the early signs of dehydration before they become hazardous. As global temperatures climb, it is more crucial than ever to stay hydrated, not just for physical fitness, but for long term brain health and neurological safety.
About the Author
Abigail Banerji is a Senior Sub Editor with News18’s English desk. She brings 6 years of experience across both print and digital newsrooms, spanning editorial planning, reportage, copy editing, conte…Read More
