When your body expels more water than what you are consuming, you can quickly become dehydrated. This can happen regardless of your age, but it is more common in hot weather, humid weather, when exercising, or even when in a hot tub. To answer, ‘Can a hot tub dehydrate you?’, it can but there are very simple ways to prevent dehydration. Typically, hot tubs are set somewhere between 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. To help prevent any possible chance at dehydration, continue reading below for more advice.
Symptoms of Dehydration
The first step to keeping yourself safe is by being aware of how to avoid dehydration. You can do this by recognizing the symptoms of dehydration if it does occur to your or another bather.
The first few symptoms of those experiencing dehydration will be dry mouth, thirst, dizziness, headache, or lightheadedness. If you think someone may be experiencing mild dehydration, immediately provide them with water or other hydrating items like Gatorade. If someone is experiencing severe dehydration you can expect extreme thirst, lack of sweating, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, or extreme fever. If you notice anyone with these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
By simply being aware of the symptoms you can make sure you and your guests can hot tub safely. Encourage all bathers to drink some water before and after taking a soak. Plain water can instantly be made more exciting with cucumber, lime, or frozen berries.
Tips to Avoid Dehydration in Hot Tubs
People often picture themselves sitting in a hot tub with a cold cocktail in hand. However, you should be aware that alcohol can contribute to dehydration. When in a hot tub, this process can be accelerated. One drink is probably fine, but be sure to rehydrate with water and never allow anyone to use a hot tub while intoxicated.
Other factors that put you at risk for dehydration include setting the hot tub’s temperature above the maximum or taking a longer soak than suggested. Keep to the side of caution when following the guidelines. If you want to take long soaks, follow the guides advice and bring the temperature down a bit. In addition, stay out of the hot tub after performing a difficult workout, running for example. Your body temperature will already be pretty high and you may increase to dangerous levels.
Lastly, if you are pregnant you should never use a hot tub. It is also best for babies and toddlers to avoid soaks. If someone has a pre-existing medical condition or is taking medication, talk with your healthcare provider before taking a soak.
You are now aware of how to avoid dehydration when taking a soak, discover more benefits of hot tub ownership by downloading this hot tub buyer’s guide.