Your body can get dehydrated when it’s expelling more water than it’s consumed. This can happen to anyone, no matter how old you are. It can happen any time, but it’s more common if you’re exercising if the weather is hot and humid, or even if you’re in a hot tub. Hot tubs are usually set anywhere between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit, so yes, hot tubs can dehydrate you if you do not follow the recommended safety guidelines. You can prevent this from happening with some simple steps as outlined below.
Symptoms of Dehydration
One of the most important steps in keeping yourself safe from dehydration is knowing the symptoms.
The first symptoms are dry mouth, thirstiness, headache and feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. Symptoms of more severe dehydration are more extreme thirstiness, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, fever, and a lack of sweat.
Mild symptoms of dehydration can be treated by drinking some water, or a hydration drink, such as Gatorade. If you or another hot tub user has symptoms of severe dehydration, then seek immediate medical attention.
You and other bathers should drink water before and after soaking in the hot tub. If you want a more exciting drink, try infusing some fruit like lime, cucumbers, or berries into the water. It’s hydrating and delicious.
Tips To Avoid Dehydration In A Hot Tub
Follow these common sense tips and you will be sure to avoid become dehydrated when using your hot tub.
Limit Alcohol Intake
If you picture yourself in a hot tub, did you imagine sitting back, relaxing, with an ice-cold cocktail in your hand? One drink is probably fine, but you should be aware that alcohol can add to dehydration, and that can be accelerated even more in a hot tub. If you are having a drink in your hot tub, make sure you drink plenty of water as well. Also make sure you, or anyone else, doesn’t use the tub while intoxicated.
Temperature
It’s possible to become dehydrated if you’ve set the hot tub temperature above the maximum, or if you spent longer in the tub than you should. Follow the guidelines for safe hot tub use. If you want to spend more time in the tub, you’ll need to lower the temperature a little.
Workouts
If you’ve been performing intensive exercise routines, then you should probably avoid the hot tub. When your body temperature comes back down, you can get in the tub, but until then, find a way to cool off.
When You Shouldn’t Use A Hot Tub
If you’re pregnant, then you should stay out of the tub. You should also keep babies, and young children out of the tub. People with pre-existing medical conditions, or who are taking medication should check with their healthcare providers before soaking in a hot tub.
When it comes to using hot tubs, stay safe, use common sense and have fun!