WARNING: ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY CAUSED BY IMPROPER HYDRATION HABITS DURING HOT WEATHER

During periods of prolonged hot weather, the body's demand for water increases significantly. However, choosing inappropriate beverages for hydration can have serious health consequences, including the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by prolonged dehydration.

Recently, the Department of Intensive Care, Dialysis and Toxicology at TNH Pho Yen Hospital admitted a 48-year-old female patient presenting with fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, decreased urination, and dark-colored urine.

According to the patient's medical history, she frequently worked outdoors under intense heat, resulting in excessive fluid loss through sweating. Although she attempted to replenish fluids, she mainly consumed carbonated soft drinks and energy drinks instead of plain water. This improper hydration practice over an extended period led to severe dehydration, impaired kidney function, and ultimately acute kidney injury.

Clinical examination and laboratory tests revealed a significant decline in kidney function. The patient was diagnosed with acute kidney injury caused by prolonged dehydration.

Immediately after admission, the patient received aggressive fluid replacement therapy and was closely monitored for blood pressure, urine output, and kidney function indicators. After one week of treatment, her condition improved considerably. Urine output returned nearly to normal, kidney function recovered well, and she was discharged in stable condition.

According to Dr. Luu Thi Thanh Xuan, Specialist Level I and Head of the Intensive Care Department, acute kidney injury caused by dehydration can be completely reversible if detected and treated promptly. However, delayed medical attention or underestimating symptoms may lead to severe kidney damage and, in some cases, emergency dialysis may be required.

Healthcare professionals recommend that during hot weather, the body loses substantial amounts of water and electrolytes through perspiration. Carbonated soft drinks and energy drinks are not suitable choices for rehydration, as they often contain high levels of sugar, caffeine, and additives that may worsen dehydration, place additional stress on the cardiovascular system, and negatively affect overall health when consumed regularly.

For effective hydration, people should prioritize drinking plain water, non-carbonated mineral water, fresh coconut water, or oral rehydration solutions such as Oresol and diluted salted lemonade. These beverages help replenish both fluids and essential minerals lost by the body, especially for individuals who work outdoors or engage in physical activities under hot weather conditions.

If symptoms such as persistent dry mouth, extreme fatigue, dizziness, reduced urination, or dark-colored urine occur, individuals should seek medical attention promptly to prevent potentially serious complications.

With a team of highly experienced healthcare professionals and modern medical equipment, TNH Pho Yen Hospital is always ready to provide emergency care and effective treatment for serious medical conditions, contributing to the protection and improvement of community health.