Dehydration can occur when your body expels more water than it consumes. This can happen to anyone in hot weather, humid weather, when exercising, or even when using a hot tub. While someone can experience dehydration while taking a soak, with a few common-sense practices, this can easily be avoided.
Typically, hot tub temperatures range between 100 to 104 degrees. In order to stay hydrated throughout all hot tub experiences, consider the information below.
Symptoms of Dehydration
The first step towards preventing dehydration is by knowing what causes it and the symptoms. This helps you become aware when it occurs to you, a friend, or a family member.
Those experiencing dehydration will first notice dry mouth, extreme thirst, a lightheadedness, dizziness, or headaches. If mild dehydration is occurring, be sure to instruct the guest to leave the hot tub and drink water immediately. Sports drinks such as Gatorade will work as well. If someone is experiencing severe dehydration symptoms, these can include extreme thirst, sweating, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, or even a fever. If you notice someone with any of these symptoms it is best to immediately seek out medical help.
When you know what to look for you can make sure your guests are always safe in the hot tub. This can be assisted by making sure each bather has a large glass of water both before and after their soak. It is also important to keep an eye on the clock to make sure you do not overdo it in the hot tub. Lastly, if your guests are reluctant to drink water, try serving it with cucumber, lime, frozen berries, or some coconut water.
Tips to Avoid Dehydration in Hot Tubs
When people purchase a hot tub, they often dream about the day they can enjoy a cocktail while taking a soak. However, you should be aware that alcohol can speed up dehydration. One drink is probably fine, but water should follow right after. It is also important to note that it is not safe to bathe and become intoxicated at the same time.
Risks for dehydration increase when your hot tub’s temperature exceeds the max or bathers soak longer than suggested. Be sure to consider the hot tub guidelines for a long soak like turning the temperature down a few degrees. Also, hot tubs should be avoided right after completing a difficult working, running for example. Your body’s temperature will already be pretty high, the hot waters can only help with dehydration at this point.
Lastly, those who are pregnant should always avoid hot tubs. This also includes babies, toddlers, those with a pre-existing medical condition, or those who are on medication, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider.
You are now aware of how to avoid dehydration in a hot tub. Learn more about hot tub benefits by downloading the hot tub buyer’s guide below, or visit us at our London hot tub store.