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Know the dangers of dehydration for your urinary health in summer

There are several side effects of dehydration, but did you know it also impacts your urinary health? Read on for tips to prevent dehydration.
Dehydration and urinary infections
Find out if dehydration can increase risk of urinary problems. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
Dr Dilip Dhanpal Published: 24 Apr 2023, 12:00 pm IST
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Dehydration is a common problem that occurs when the body loses more fluids than the intake. The summer months, with the sweltering heat, can lead to dehydration, which can have significant impacts on urological health. The urological system plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s homeostasis by filtering waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. However, when the body is dehydrated, this delicate balance can be disrupted, leading to various urinary problems. Let us know more about the side effects of dehydration.

Dehydration can cause a decrease in urine production, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones and increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Additionally, a lack of fluid intake can cause urine to become concentrated, leading to bladder infections and other urological problems. Therefore, it is important to stay hydrated to ensure the proper functioning of the urological system and avoid these potentially serious complications.

Avoid dehydration in summer
Avoid dehydration in summer. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Side effects of dehydration on urinary health

1. Kidney stones

Dehydration can concentrate the urine, which can lead to the accumulation of unwanted substances and minerals in the body leading to the formation of kidney stones. These stones can cause significant pain and damage to the urinary tract. Know how to identify early signs of kidney stones.

2. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Dehydration can increase the risk of urinary tract infections. When the body is dehydrated, it may not produce enough urine to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, leading to infection.

3. Bladder problems

When the body is dehydrated, the urine becomes concentrated, which can irritate and inflame the bladder. This irritation can lead to a range of symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency and pain during urination. Drinking enough fluids throughout the day can help prevent bladder problems by keeping the urine diluted and reducing irritation in the bladder.

Dehydration can affect urinary bladder
Bladder problems and UTI issues can become common with dehydration. Image courtesy: FreePik

4. Prostate problems

Dehydration can cause a decrease in urine volume, which can lead to problems with the prostate gland. The prostate gland can become enlarged and cause problems with urinary flow.

5. Erectile dysfunction

Dehydration can contribute to erectile dysfunction by reducing blood flow to the penis. When the body is dehydrated, it may not produce enough blood volume to maintain adequate blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. Staying hydrated is essential to prevent this condition.

Dehydration and menstruation

The side effects of dehydration can also be felt on menstruation. During menstruation, the body loses a significant amount of fluids, so it is essential to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration. Dehydration during menstruation can cause the following complications:

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1. Irregular periods

Dehydration can lead to irregular periods, making it difficult to predict when menstruation will occur.

2. Headaches

Dehydration during menstruation can also cause headaches, which can be quite painful.

Dehydration side effects on menstruation
Headache during menstruation may get worse with dehydration. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

3. Mood swings

Dehydration can also cause mood swings, which can lead to irritability and anxiety.

How to prevent and manage dehydration

* Drink plenty of water: Consuming an adequate quantity of water is the best way to prevent dehydration. One needs at least to drink eight glasses of water a day.

* Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can lead to dehydration, so it is best to avoid them during the summer months.

* Eat water-rich foods: Foods such as watermelon, cucumber and tomatoes have high water content and can help prevent dehydration.

* Rehydration: The best way to manage dehydration is by rehydrating the body. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help replenish lost fluids.

* Electrolyte replacement: In cases where dehydration is severe, electrolyte replacement drinks can help replenish lost electrolytes.

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About the Author

Dr Dilip Dhanpal, Senior Consultant Urologist, Uro Oncologist and Transplant Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru ...Read More

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