Re: [at-l] Dehydration Questions for 'The Doc-In-The-House'

["W F Thorneloe, MD" <thornel@attglobal.net>]

Well, the basic idea is to get fluids on board. There is a bit much over 
done about Gatorade and similar rehydration supplements, as what your body 
is thirsting for is water (duh).

There can be room for electrolyte solutions, but remember that potassium 
(K) is a primary loss in sweat and urine. You need both, but in renal 
failure, elevated potassium levels can be deadly. Low sodium (Na) levels 
usually only occur in those who binge drink water or have a rare 
abnormality that tricks the kidneys into expecting to be in a desert while 
over-hydrating. Low potassium frequently results in the cramping and 
weakness many hikers have at the end of the day, although calcium can also 
be involved.

You instructor is correct in suggesting that the electrolyte powder be 
diluted. If the heat stroke or heat exhausted person has a partial renal 
failure, potassium may be high. Your body quickly rids itself of excessive 
K by simply vomiting, but also again losing the water that was needed in 
the first place. By only using dilute electrolyte solution, you reduce the 
risk of further complicating an electrolyte disturbance, and get the water 
that is vitally needed.

Basically, water is what you want. Colas are excessively high in 
electrolytes, and the carbonation can add to GI events. Tea and Coffee have 
some color and caffeine, but sugar can be excessive, and still, water is 
what your body is thirsting for. (This would be a good time to remind 
readers of the KISS principle). At least we are beyond the old common 
wisdom of salt tablets. Also, caffeine is a mild diuretic and gut 
stimulant, definitely not what you need if dehydrated.

This fall, watch what teams seem to be sucking down the gatorade and watch 
them start have leg cramps in the 4th quarter. The teams that mix water and 
gatorade tend to last longer in the heat. Personally, I bring Gatorade 
powder and make 2 liters per day, but budget for an additional 6 liters of 
plain water while hiking - as a minimum. Remember to wait to add the 
Gatorade for 20 minutes or so after the iodine.

OrangeBug

At 09:05 PM 5/1/2000, David Hicks wrote:
>I have always relied on plain filtered water, or iodine treated water 
>w/something for flavor when hiking or working in the heat.

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