Overview
- Reports published January 15 by multiple outlets and provincial health authorities stress that mild, sustained fluid loss in hot weather commonly goes unnoticed.
- Early signs flagged by specialists include dark-colored urine, dry mouth or lips, persistent fatigue and sometimes mild, recurrent headaches.
- Thirst is not a reliable gauge of hydration, said cardiologist Dr. Carolina Arriva, who advises drinking water regularly rather than waiting to feel thirsty.
- Children, older adults and people who work or spend long hours outdoors face higher risk and require more frequent, supervised fluid intake.
- Preventive guidance includes increasing fluids on very hot days or with activity, checking urine color, choosing low-sodium water, and recognizing heat-illness steps such as cooling the person and seeking emergency care without giving liquids if they are unconscious or confused.