The subject of „dizziness“ and unsteadiness on one's feet comes up again and again in my practice, particularly with older people. A small episode from this week.
A few days ago an elderly patient came to me completely drenched in sweat, dutifully attending her six-monthly Health check-up appointment. When I asked her how she was feeling, she simply replied:
„Well, I feel quite giddy…“
I asked her whether she had drunk any water yet that day. „No“ – apart from a cup of espresso she had actually forgotten about it entirely. By then it was 10:30 in the morning and the thermometer showed 29 degrees…
Why we need so much fluid in summer in particular
At these temperatures our body needs considerably more fluid – on hot days 3 to 4 litres can make good sense. Water is best suited: with a little ginger, lemon or peppermint, as tea or plain. What matters is that we drink regularly at all.
What can happen if you drink too little
If we drink too little, the blood becomes „thicker“ and more viscous – the heart has to work harder to pump it around the body. Experts point out that a pronounced lack of fluid can put strain on the circulation. An adequate intake is therefore genuinely important in the warmer season.
Don't forget electrolytes
Through sweating we also lose electrolytes – finely distributed minerals that perform many tasks in the body: among other things they ensure that muscles do not cramp so easily and that signals are passed along the nerves. If they are lacking, that too can contribute to dizziness.
A simple tip from the home-remedy kitchen: drink enough water as required and occasionally half a glass of pickle brine (from gherkins). It contains plenty of electrolytes and is even mentioned by some doctors as a small immediate remedy. For anyone wishing to support their mineral and micronutrient balance in a targeted way, a Infusion therapy be worth considering.
Particular caution with medication
For many people – and older people in particular – there is another factor: for anyone taking medication regularly, its effect can change if fluid intake is too low. When in doubt, a conversation with the treating doctor is worthwhile here.
My advice for the summer
Let us all drink enough water – ideally not ice-cold and not too heavily carbonated. But honestly, that is secondary: sparkling or still, warm or cool – simply water. And please let us pay particular attention to older and unwell people, so that they drink enough.
That way this summer can be enjoyed again too. Stay well!
Yours
Marcus Stötzer
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About the author: Marcus Stötzer
Non-medical practitioner · Naturheilpraxis Stötzer Wiesbaden
Areas of focus: infusion therapy, acupuncture according to Boel, oxyvenation, colon hydrotherapy and vital nutrient medicine. Marcus has been supporting his patients for years with a holistic view of the body, energy balance and quality of life.
