Every morning, before beginning his workout in our “home gym” in the basement, Bruce empties the dehumidifier of water. During the summer months, the tank is heavy, full to capacity, and may even have turned off in order not to overflow. However, these mornings, the tank is typically only half full. What better evidence, or better imagery, of the change of seasons and the heat in the house and car. Naturally, that brings with it…dry, dry, dry air, and that air seems to take all of the moisture from us. No wonder I feel like a prune!
This dryness has its effect on our skin, our nasal passages, sinuses, throat and I am certain parts of our bodies, but what it does to an Ileostomate is particularly important…and dangerous. We can dehydrate under many circumstances, but even more so now. Add to that the reality that it is flu season, COVID-19 fright, and other reasons, such as fever, diarrhea, vomiting or lack of interest in drinking, and we are in danger.
My hand and body creams are being lathered frequently; my saline spray for my nose and sinuses is getting a workout; I have lozenges at the ready for my dry throat; I drink throughout the night each time I empty my pouch, and sip hot or cold water all day. It is still not enough. I have added more salt to my diet (I have low, not high blood pressure, so I can do that) so as to retain some fluids and continue to stay alert for the signs of dehydration.
The signs are important for all of us to know since everyone is vulnerable to it. As we age, we naturally have a lower volume of water in our bodies and may take medications or have conditions, such as ileostomy that further increases our risk of dehydration. This means that even minor illnesses, such as bladder or lung infections can cause problems. How many times do we hear, when ill, to increase fluids? We are usually able to drink enough to rehydrate, but if not, medical intervention (intravenous fluids) may be indicated.
Here are some signs to increase your awareness:
- Extreme thirst
- Less frequent urination
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Confusion
(I have been told that Ileostomates may fill their pouch very quickly and then not again due to a rapid loss of fluids.)
Wearing a mask, which is the most important defense we have against Covid-19, can further create issues because we are reticent to lift our masks, so please drink more when home or in your car.
Of course, simply turning on the heat does not have deleterious effects unless you have an underlying medical condition, but it does make for itchy and stretched discomfort of the skin. Keep your body cream handy, Vaseline your lips under your mask, be mindful of your fluid intake, and stay alert for signs you need more. We will be in more than ever this winter, but the spring, and vaccines, are around the corner…never have I been more anxious to see a Robin Red Breast!