Dr. Ahmed Al-Mutairi: Regular water consumption reduces the risk of blood clots during travel
Dr. Wala’a Hafez: With rising temperatures and increased travel activity during holidays and weekends, maintaining adequate hydration becomes one of the most important factors protecting travelers from fatigue and health complications. Dehydration does not only cause thirst; it can lead to headaches, dizziness, concentration disorders, and heat stress, and in some cases, may develop into serious complications requiring medical intervention. In this interview, we discuss with Dr. Ahmad Majid Al-Mutairi, Head of the Public Health and Preventive Medicine Department in the Farwaniya Health Region, the importance of water during travel, the most common mistakes travelers make, and how to maintain fluid balance in various conditions. Travel is often associated with changes in daily routines, long hours of transit, exposure to different temperatures, and a lack of attention to thirst due to preoccupation with the journey. All these factors increase the likelihood of the body losing fluids without adequate replacement.
Dr. Al-Mutairi told Al-Qabas: “Good hydration during travel is not a luxury, but a simple and effective preventive measure against many health problems that can ruin a trip. Thirst is not always a sufficient indicator of the need for water, as it is a relatively late sign of the onset of dehydration.”
**The Importance of Water During Travel**
Dr. Al-Mutairi clarified that during trips, especially long ones or those to hot regions, the body is exposed to factors that increase fluid loss, such as:
• Prolonged sitting.
• Sweating due to heat.
• Dry air inside airplanes.
• Frequent walking and carrying luggage.
• Consuming coffee and caffeinated beverages.
All these factors make the body more susceptible to dehydration; therefore, travelers need to continuously replenish fluids, even if they do not feel thirsty. Dr. Al-Mutairi advised the necessity of drinking adequate amounts of water regularly, even without feeling thirsty.
**Early Signs of Dehydration**
Dr. Al-Mutairi emphasized that maintaining hydration by drinking sufficient water is one of the most important elements of health for the body during travel, especially with the environmental and climatic changes travelers may encounter. Water is not just a means to quench thirst, but a fundamental element for maintaining vital bodily functions, boosting immunity, and preventing many travel-related illnesses. Early signs of dehydration include:
1. Dry mouth and lips.
2. Headaches.
3. Fatigue and exhaustion.
Therefore, it is recommended to drink water regularly during travel, even if one does not feel thirsty, particularly for the elderly and children.
**Special Cases**
He noted that certain groups are more prone to dehydration complications during travel, including:
• Infants and young children.
• The elderly.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Diabetics.
• Patients with kidney diseases.
• Individuals taking diuretics.
• Travelers to hot and humid regions.
Therefore, attention to hydration must be continuous. Additionally, individuals with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and kidney disease, require special monitoring of fluid balance.
**Air Travel**
Dr. Al-Mutairi explained how air travel affects body hydration, stating: “The air inside airplanes is characterized by low humidity levels, which increases fluid loss through respiration and skin.” He therefore advised drinking water before, during, and after the flight, while reducing the intake of diuretic beverages. He pointed out that water needs vary depending on the travel destination. Travel to desert or hot regions requires larger fluid quantities compared to moderate climates. Furthermore, engaging in outdoor activities, such as walking and mountain hiking, increases the need for water. He said: “There is no single quantity that suits everyone, as it varies according to age, weight, physical activity, and weather. However, the general rule is to drink water regularly and maintain a relatively light urine color.”
**Long Car Journeys**
Regarding hydration during long car trips, the following measures are recommended:
1. Carry a personal water bottle.
2. Drink small amounts frequently.
3. Avoid waiting until you feel thirsty.
4. Stop periodically to rest.
**Juices or Soft Drinks**
Dr. Al-Mutairi confirmed that water remains the best option. Sugary drinks may increase fluid loss or add high calories without achieving optimal hydration. Regarding coffee and tea, he mentioned that they can be consumed in moderation, but should not be considered a complete substitute for water, especially when consumed in excess during travel.
**Risks of Ignoring Water Intake**
Dr. Al-Mutairi emphasized that ignoring water intake during trips may lead to:
• Reduced concentration and attention.
• Headaches and fatigue.
• Muscle cramps.
• Heat stress.
• Increased risk of accidents while driving.
This is particularly true for children, as their bodies lose fluids faster and they may not clearly express their thirst. Therefore, water should be offered to them frequently. As for the elderly, their ability to feel thirst decreases with age, making them more susceptible to dehydration even without obvious symptoms initially.
**Dehydration and Gastrointestinal Disorders**
Dr. Al-Mutairi pointed out that dehydration may increase the likelihood of constipation and affect digestive efficiency, while diarrhea resulting from certain infections can significantly exacerbate fluid loss. He said: “We always advise travelers to wash fruits and vegetables with safe water and avoid drinking tap water. Some cases of traveler’s diarrhea and food poisoning are due to water contamination.”
**Water and Blood Clots During Travel**
Dr. Al-Mutairi emphasized that maintaining hydration helps keep blood less viscous, and with regular movement and leg stretching, the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis during long travels is reduced. He said: “Water is not just a beverage during travel, but a means of body protection, a safeguard against fatigue and dehydration, and a guarantee of a more comfortable and safe journey.”
**Risks of Unsafe Water**
He noted that in some countries, water sources may be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites, increasing the risk of diarrhea or food poisoning. Therefore, one should avoid drinking tap water in unreliable areas and rely on bottled or boiled water. He said: “Be cautious with ice in some places if the water source is unknown.”
**Warning**
Dr. Al-Mutairi warned that not all water is suitable for drinking or safe for consumption. Water is an essential, indispensable element during travel, but it is crucial to choose a reliable water source, as maintaining body hydration prevents many health problems and helps enjoy a safe and comfortable trip. He also warned that excessive water consumption within a short period can lead to low blood sodium levels, a rare but potentially dangerous condition. Therefore, he stressed the importance of achieving balance and avoiding excessive water intake, advising the consumption of small, frequent amounts throughout the day rather than drinking a large quantity at once.
**Health Tips for Travelers**
Dr. Ahmad Al-Mutairi provided several important tips and guidelines for travelers, as follows:
1. Aim to drink 2–3 liters of water daily, depending on activity and weather.
2. Use tightly sealed bottled water and verify its source.
3. Avoid ice in drinks if you are unsure of the water source.
4. Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water or peel them before eating.
5. Carry water purifiers or filters for long trips or remote areas.
6. Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing.
7. Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.
8. Increase fluid intake in hot weather or during long walks.
9. Consume water-rich fruits, such as watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers.
10. If the trip is long by air, drink water regularly, as airplane air is dry.
