Why winter dehydration can be more dangerous than summer

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- When summer arrives, reminders to “drink water” and “stay hydrated” are everywhere. But health experts say hydration shouldn’t be seasonal and winter may actually put people at greater risk for dehydration.

“Summertime, that’s what we associate with dehydration everybody’s sweating more,” said Dr. Jordan Maxwell with Texas Tech Health El Paso. “But in the winter, it can definitely be kind of hidden.”

Maxwell said cold winter air holds less moisture, which dries out the skin and respiratory system. Indoor heating can make the problem worse.

“When people are indoors with their heater on, that also decreases the humidity in their homes,” Maxwell said. “That drier air allows more water to be evaporated off the skin.”

Because the effects are subtle, dehydration often goes unnoticed. Common signs include fatigue, sunken eyes and using the bathroom less frequently.

Maxwell said children and older adults are especially vulnerable to dehydration.

“One reason children are more susceptible is because they have a larger body surface area compared to their total body mass,” he said.

To prevent dehydration, Maxwell recommends carrying a water bottle and drinking consistently throughout the day.

“One of the best things you can do is just sip on water throughout the day,” he said.

Maxwell also recommends speaking with a doctor to determine how much water is right for each individual.