Mercury's Rising

MERCURY'S RISING

Ahhh…Summer in the desert. For many people, summer means family vacations, pool parties, and fireworks. For Las Vegans, it means scorching steering wheels, high electric bills from the A/C, and visitors who had heard the rumors, but can’t believe that it actually gets this hot here. It’s the desert; we get a little extra love from the sun. Sometimes a little too much love. The mercury is headed north again this week, which is why Steinberg Diagnostic reminds you to stay healthy, hydrated, and safe. Here are some tips for the summer months:1.Stay hydratedIt’s simple. Our perspiration increases as the temperatures increase. Our body loses water daily through the skin, intestines, lungs, and urine. And with all the playing done in the summer, your body can expect increased water loss from the physical activity. It’s important to replace this water loss with adequate hydration. What does that mean for us? The Institute of Medicine reports that an adequate intake for men is about 13 cups of total beverages a day and about 9 cups for women. Of course, these determinations vary by weight and level of physical activity, but the most important lesson here is to keep a full water bottle close by.2. Put on that sunblockGrowing up, I had so many friends give every excuse not to put on sunscreen: “I don’t need it.” “I just don’t like the feeling of it.” “It’s so sticky.” Let me tell you why I put it on. Skin Cancer. It’s the most common form of cancer in the United States. The good news is that it is the most preventable. Damage from the sun’s UV Rays is its leading cause and all you have to do to keep yourself protected is follow the example of this little guy:

[Img Source: http://posterjackcanada.wordpress.com]

3. Keep an eye out for loved onesIn my book, we’re already champs for tolerating this Vegas sun, but remember that some of us are more susceptible to the dangers of excessive temperatures. Seniors, children, and pets are of particular concern. The Southern Nevada Health District offers an extensive list of warning signs and treatment for heat-related illnesses and we urge you to take a look so you can keep you and your loved ones happy and healthy this Summer.