DOH tells young athletes: Drink lots of water

Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water to avoid suffering from heat stroke, the Department of Health (DOH) advised young athletes participating in this year’s Palarong Pambansa in Antique.

“Because of the very hot weather, we need to drink more water than the eight to 12 glasses. Even if we are not thirsty, we should drink water every 15 minutes,” Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial said.

Manila Medical Center Internal Medicine—Infectious Diseases specialist Dr. Katha Ngo said staying hydrated was the main weapon against heat stroke, especially for athletes.

“We advise them to keep themselves hydrated. Drink lots of water,” Ngo said.

In previous years, there have been incidents of athletes succumbing to heat stroke.

The DOH stressed that the risk of heat stroke—considered a medical emergency—increased during hot and humid conditions, especially during exercise and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Symptoms include fainting; dizziness; weakness; headache; very high fever; rapid heartbeat; convulsion; and unconsciousness.