Dehydration and the Cardiovascular System – Stay Hydrated to Stay Healthy

Dehydration happens when your body puts out more fluid than you are able to take in. This water loss can happen though sweating, urination, fever, diarrhea, and illness. Though children, the elderly, and athletes are most at risk, anyone can dehydrate.

Risks that come with dehydration

Elevated Heart Rate – When you are dehydrated you blood volume decreases. Vascular walls do not expand as they should. Receptors relay this to the brain which boosts the heart rate to compensate making your heart work harder.

Blood Pressure – While it may seem counterintuitive dehydration increases blood pressure. This is partly due to an elevated retention of sodium. Blood becomes thicker and more difficult to circulate. The body compensates by squeezing the vessels to help move it along.

Decreased Cardiac Output – This is the output of blood volume that the heart pumps per beat. When you are dehydrated this output drops significantly. This makes your heart less efficient.

Orthostatic Hypotension – This condition occurs when you go from a sitting to standing position. Dizziness, fainting, and feeling lightheaded are common complaints.

Other symptoms to watch out for that may indicate you are becoming dehydrated.

• Thirst
• Dry skin
• Dry chapped lips
• Itchy eyes
• Frequent Urination but only small amounts – dark or strong-smelling urine
• Fatigue

How to combat dehydration at home

• Drink water frequently and before you are thirsty. By the time you feel thirst you are already low on water.
• Don’t skip meals
• Eat healthy fats
• Avoid high protein drinks
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid caffeine
• Drink beverages with electrolytes
• Get enough sleep
• Visit your doctor if chronic dehydration becomes an issue. Your diet or medications may need to be changed.

Ready to get a full handle on your health?
We would love to see you in our office. The professional staff at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates of Tampa Bay, Florida invites you to give us a call and schedule your consultation today at 813-975-2800.