Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Drinking Water Is Even More Important During Winters, According To Doctor

As a harsh cold wave swept across North India, doctors noticed a quiet but worrying trend inside emergency rooms—more people were showing up dehydrated, even though temperatures were at their lowest. Health and Me spoke to Dr. Swadesh Kumar, Cluster Head – Emergency and Trauma Care &amp; Casualty, Gurugram, to understand why <span>winter dehydration</span> is often missed and how it can turn dangerous if ignored.

<h2>When Cold Weather Creates a False Sense of Safety</h2>

Winter is usually associated with hot drinks, cozy layers and fewer reminders to sip <span>water</span>. According to Dr. Kumar, this mindset is exactly where the problem begins. “People assume that because they’re not sweating or feeling thirsty, their body doesn’t need as much water. That’s a misconception,” he explains.

During cold spells, thirst signals are naturally suppressed. At the same time, the body continues to lose fluids through dry air, indoor heating and even breathing. “The loss is gradual and silent, which makes winter dehydration harder to spot,” Dr. Kumar adds.

<h2>A Rise in Winter Emergency Cases</h2>

Hospitals across northern states reported a seasonal increase in dehydration-related complications during the cold wave. These weren’t always dramatic cases. Patients often came in with dizziness, fatigue, confusion or sudden changes in blood pressure.

“In many emergency visits, dehydration wasn’t suspected initially because there was no heat exposure or fever,” says Dr. Kumar. This delay allowed symptoms to worsen before treatment was started.

<h2>How Dehydration Worsens Existing Conditions</h2>

Low fluid intake doesn’t just cause weakness, it can aggravate underlying health problems. When the body is dehydrated, blood becomes thicker, increasing the risk of clot formation. This is particularly dangerous for older adults and people with heart disease.

Kidneys are also affected. Reduced hydration puts extra strain on them, sometimes leading to acute kidney injury. “We see patients with palpitations, fainting spells and extreme weakness, only to later realize dehydration is the root cause,” Dr. Kumar notes.

<h2>Respiratory Infections Add to the Risk</h2>

Winter illnesses further complicate the situation. Fever, rapid breathing and certain medications increase fluid loss. Yet many people intentionally avoid drinking water to reduce bathroom visits in the cold.

“This combination is especially risky for children and the elderly,” Dr. Kumar says. Children depend on caregivers for hydration reminders, while older adults naturally feel less thirsty. Both groups can slip into dehydration quickly during winter infections.

<h2>Indoor Heating: The Hidden Culprit</h2>

Room heaters and blowers dry out indoor air, leading to unnoticed moisture loss through the skin and breath. People spending long hours indoors often underestimate this effect.

Early signs like dry lips, headaches and muscle cramps are commonly ignored. By the time medical help is sought, dehydration may already have disrupted blood pressure or electrolyte balance.

<h2>Subtle Warning Signs Often Missed</h2>

Unlike summer dehydration, winter dehydration doesn’t come with intense thirst. Dark urine, reduced urination, constant tiredness and mild confusion are frequent clues but are often blamed on cold weather or poor sleep.

“In severe cases, dehydration can contribute to sudden falls, worsening chronic illnesses and emergency admissions,” Dr. Kumar warns.

<h2>Simple Habits Can Prevent Serious Risk</h2>

Doctors advise treating hydration as a routine, not a response to thirst. Warm water, soups, stews and herbal drinks are practical winter options. Fruits with high water content also help, even when appetite is low.

“Monitor urine color, limit excess caffeine and be extra careful if you have a chronic condition,” Dr. Kumar advises.

The cold wave is a reminder that dehydration isn’t just a summer problem. Even in winter, the body needs adequate water to function, and ignoring that need can quietly turn into a medical emergency.

Health Conditions A-Z

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seasonal health

nutrition

water

drinking water in winter

winter health

winter dehydration

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As a harsh cold wave swept across North India, doctors noticed a quiet but worrying trend inside emergency rooms—more people were showing up dehydrated, even though temperatures were at their lowest. Health and Me spoke to Dr. Swadesh Kumar, Cluster Head – Emergency and Trauma Care & Casualty, Gurugram, to understand why winter dehydration is often missed and how it can turn dangerous if ignored.When Cold Weather Creates a False Sense of SafetyWinter is usually associated with hot drinks, cozy layers and fewer reminders to sip water. According to Dr. Kumar, this mindset is exactly where the problem begins. “People assume that because they’re not sweating or feeling thirsty, their body doesn’t need as much water. That’s a misconception,” he explains.During cold spells, thirst signals are naturally suppressed. At the same time, the body continues to lose fluids through dry air, indoor heating and even breathing. “The loss is gradual and silent, which makes winter dehydration harder to spot,” Dr. Kumar adds.A Rise in Winter Emergency CasesHospitals across northern states reported a seasonal increase in dehydration-related complications during the cold wave. These weren’t always dramatic cases. Patients often came in with dizziness, fatigue, confusion or sudden changes in blood pressure.“In many emergency visits, dehydration wasn’t suspected initially because there was no heat exposure or fever,” says Dr. Kumar. This delay allowed symptoms to worsen before treatment was started.How Dehydration Worsens Existing ConditionsLow fluid intake doesn’t just cause weakness, it can aggravate underlying health problems. When the body is dehydrated, blood becomes thicker, increasing the risk of clot formation. This is particularly dangerous for older adults and people with heart disease.Kidneys are also affected. Reduced hydration puts extra strain on them, sometimes leading to acute kidney injury. “We see patients with palpitations, fainting spells and extreme weakness, only to later realize dehydration is the root cause,” Dr. Kumar notes.Respiratory Infections Add to the RiskWinter illnesses further complicate the situation. Fever, rapid breathing and certain medications increase fluid loss. Yet many people intentionally avoid drinking water to reduce bathroom visits in the cold.“This combination is especially risky for children and the elderly,” Dr. Kumar says. Children depend on caregivers for hydration reminders, while older adults naturally feel less thirsty. Both groups can slip into dehydration quickly during winter infections.Indoor Heating: The Hidden CulpritRoom heaters and blowers dry out indoor air, leading to unnoticed moisture loss through the skin and breath. People spending long hours indoors often underestimate this effect.Early signs like dry lips, headaches and muscle cramps are commonly ignored. By the time medical help is sought, dehydration may already have disrupted blood pressure or electrolyte balance.Subtle Warning Signs Often MissedUnlike summer dehydration, winter dehydration doesn’t come with intense thirst. Dark urine, reduced urination, constant tiredness and mild confusion are frequent clues but are often blamed on cold weather or poor sleep.“In severe cases, dehydration can contribute to sudden falls, worsening chronic illnesses and emergency admissions,” Dr. Kumar warns.Simple Habits Can Prevent Serious RiskDoctors advise treating hydration as a routine, not a response to thirst. Warm water, soups, stews and herbal drinks are practical winter options. Fruits with high water content also help, even when appetite is low.“Monitor urine color, limit excess caffeine and be extra careful if you have a chronic condition,” Dr. Kumar advises.The cold wave is a reminder that dehydration isn’t just a summer problem. Even in winter, the body needs adequate water to function, and ignoring that need can quietly turn into a medical emergency.