Can dehydration contribute to a workplace injury?

Dehydration occurs when the body loses excess fluid and does not replace it within the system. Few people realize the importance of their daily water consumption, and depending on your gender and weight, you could need as much as 100 ounces of water a day.

Dangerous things can happen to the body when it does not get enough water. Many individuals work in strenuous job conditions, with repeated vigorous movements and humid environments, that increase their likelihood of developing and suffering from accidents.

Symptoms of dehydration

Being thirsty is not the most reliable symptom of needing more water. The symptoms also vary by age. In adults, the following symptoms will often progress from mild to more severe as the dehydration progresses:

• Dizziness
• Extreme thirst
• Dark-colored and less frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Confusion

Dealing with dehydration

Mild dehydration requires increasing your fluid intake, which is possible without medical assistance. However, more severe dehydration symptoms require medical intervention. The longer it progresses, dehydration can cause an individual to pass out, become disoriented, or it could lead to a seizure. This can cause severe problems at the workplace, particularly if you work with machinery, deal with height, or have another job requiring safety precautions.

To prevent workplace injury due to dehydration, it is important to drink water and other fluids consistently throughout the day and fill your diet with foods that are high in water to help supplement your water intake.

Workplace accidents can lead to debilitating injuries that cause financial havoc on your family. Protect yourself by being more conscious of your water intake.