Vic: Heat, celebrations, prompt dehydration warning

AAP General News (Australia)
12-16-2003
Vic: Heat, celebrations, prompt dehydration warning

MELBOURNE, Dec 16 AAP - Soaring summer temperatures and the onset of festive celebrations
have prompted a dehydration warning from Victoria's chief health officer.

With temperatures in Melbourne forecast to reach 37 degrees celsius today, the state's
chief health officer Robert Hall said it was a timely reminder of the need to drink plenty
of fluids.

"Adults should consume about 2.5 litres of fluid a day, and even more in hot summer
months," Dr Hall said.

He said fluid intake should be made up mostly of water, and mild diuretics such as
tea, coffee and alcohol should be drunk in moderation.

Dr Hall said children should also be encouraged to drink water, with infants and the
elderly particularly sensitive to dehydration.

"Left untreated, dehydration can result in shock and even death," Dr Hall said.

He said dehydration symptoms could include increased heart rate, darker yellow urine,
decreased amount of urine, lack of tears, poor skin tone, sunken eyes, weakness, severe
lethargy, dizziness, muscle cramps, intense thirst, confusion and unconsciousness.

AAP clm/rs

KEYWORD: DEHYDRATION

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