Cumbrian medical director warns of dehydration dangers

This is particularly our more frail and elderly community.

Dr Adrian Clements is the medical director at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS trust he warned: “We are experiencing unusually warm weather at the moment and that’s good for many people, however for our frail population it’s absolutely critical that they drink plenty of fluids and keep out of the sun.

"Maybe friends and relatives can help by checking in to see if others are ok and help with the use of a fan. We have seen a number of attendances in relation to heat and I think that it really important that people look after themselves in this glorious weather.

“Drinking plenty water is the most effective way for adults to avoid dehydration. If you are sick take little sips often. Infants and small children who are dehydrated shouldn't be given large amounts of water alone however.

"This is because it can dilute the already low level of minerals in their body too much and lead to other problems. Instead, they should be given diluted squash or a rehydration solution (available from pharmacies). You might find a teaspoon or syringe can be helpful for getting fluid into a young child.”

The body is affected even when you lose a small amount of fluid.

If you're dehydrated, drink plenty of fluids such as water, diluted squash or fruit juice. These are much more effective than large amounts of tea or coffee. Fizzy drinks may contain more sugar than you need and may be harder to take in large amounts.

If you're finding it difficult to keep water down because you're vomiting, try drinking small amounts more frequently.

If left untreated, severe dehydration can be serious and cause fits (seizures), brain damage and death.

Infants and small children who are dehydrated shouldn't be given large amounts of water alone as the main replacement fluid.

This is because it can dilute the already low level of minerals in their body too much and lead to other problems.