Dehydration

The extreme heat waves hitting Israel are a significant health risk, especially among sensitive populations. An expert explains how to distinguish between dehydration and heat stroke, how to prevent them, and what treatment is required.

Drinking enough is an important part of protection against dehydration, but it is not always enough. In the Israeli heat, the body loses not only water but also salts, and the feeling of thirst does not always arrive in time. How to identify that the body is starting to dehydrate, who is at increased risk, and what simple habits can help maintain fluid balance?

A pediatrician from the Clalit Health Services Southern District, Dr. Basel Abu Jaafar, notes that during the summer period there is an increase in visits from children with diarrhea and vomiting. How to avoid it? "Plenty of fluids, hand washing, and alertness to signs."

The two felt unwell during a hike; a medical team from the Galilee-Carmel Search and Rescue Unit provided them with initial treatment in the field. After stabilizing their condition, the girls were rescued on foot and transferred for further treatment in a Magen David Adom ambulance.