Costa del Sol expat expert talks about how to face dehydration risk as visitors fall ill

Steve, a long-term experienced expat on the Costa del Sol who has lived through some of the strongest heatwaves in Spain and suffered them, wrote to Euro Weekly News to advise other foreigners living on the southern coast of the importance of keeping hydrated. Every year hundreds fall foul of this easy-to-avoid trap but needn’t.

Have you had visitors, family members who have come over to visit and then complained of head or stomach aches after a couple of days? That’s dehydration. There’s so little water in the air here; it is very easy to suffer without noticing. ‘I’ll just have another beer, or cup of tea,’ they say, but that will just make things worse,” he says.

How can I tell if I’m really dehydrated?

Readers will be aware by now of how to keep hydrated. Missed the articles? Check recent back issues of the EWN.

Steve explains, “A multitude of health issues can be resolved by increasing your intake of fluids” (it’s not just a summer issue). Mild dehydration can appear at any time for any one of us. Increasing fluid intake and resting are all that is required. Things could be a little more serious if that doesn’t work.”

Signs to look out for if you think you’re still dehydrated start with urine colour. Ideally the colour of your urine will be pale yellow like straw. Dark yellow or amber-coloured urine are your first telltale signs that something is amiss.”

Older people need extra attention

Steve warns: “Dehydration can develop very quickly with older people. Fluids are really needed at this time of year, but they don’t feel thirsty. Urgent medical attention is needed if an older person appears confused or has fainted.”

Top tip for prevention

Steve concludes, “Drink water regularly throughout the day (don’t wait till you feel thirsty) and keep out of the sun from 12 noon to 5pm. Be safe and enjoy the summer.”