Get Healthy Carson City: Safe in the sun - How to be healthy when it's hot out

This column addresses topics related to the health of our community.

The weather has warmed up a lot in the last couple weeks. Staying hydrated is an important thing to think about during the hot summer months. Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink water; the human body needs fluids on a regular basis. An adult should drink about two liters of water each day to stay hydrated. Water is the best for rehydration, and you should try to avoid drinks with alcohol and caffeine, since these can cause you to become even more dehydrated.

Dehydration occurs when the body loses water faster than it should, or when fluid is not replenished enough. When it is very hot or if you are very active, be alert for signs of dehydration. Symptoms include a decrease in urination, a dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing up. Pay special attention to young children to ensure that they are drinking enough fluid.

Sometimes it's easy to underestimate the weather and think that you won't become too hot during a walk to the bus stop or a jog around the track. But during most summer days, you should have a source of drinking water on hand when you and your family or friends are taking part in outdoor activities or sports. Even doing work around the house like gardening or mowing the lawn can make you dehydrated. Whatever your outdoor activity, have water on hand to satisfy your thirst and decrease the chances of dehydration.

Another way to make summer more enjoyable is to avoid sunburns. Sunburns are painful, and they can have long-term health consequences, like wrinkles and an increased risk for skin cancer. Prevent sunburn by wearing sunscreen. The best option is to pick a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher, even when it's cloudy outside. To make sure that you are fully protected, you should reapply sunscreen to all exposed skin every 2 hours, and after you swim or sweat. If possible, try to wear long sleeves, long pants, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun, or stay in the shade. Don't forget your lips; wear a lip balm with SPF 15.

For more information about Health Department services, check out our website at www.gethealthycarsoncity.org or visit us at www.facebook.com/cchhs.

CLINICS

WHERE: Carson City Health and Human Services, 900 East Long St., Carson City

CALL: 775-887-2195

GENERAL CLINICS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Wednesday and Friday by appointment

WELL CHILD VISITS: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays

MEN'S CLINIC: 4-6 p.m. Mondays. Call for an appointment.

IMMUNIZATION DAY: 8:30-11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m. Thursdays. No appointment needed.