Hydration is important, especially in the desert. When it is extremely dry here, in May and June, we lose a lot of moisture simply by breathing. We expire air that has a humidity level close to 100%, and inhale very dry air. Although the dew point is higher now during the monsoon (June 15th – September 30th), dehydration is more common than people realize.
Signs and symptoms of dehydration:
- Thirst
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Dark yellow or amber urine
Tips for prevention:
- Water is the best beverage to consume.
- Drink water throughout the day, not just at meals.
- Don’t wait until you’re thirsty- that’s a symptom of early dehydration.
- Caffeine or alcohol containing beverages increase urination which contributes to dehydration.
Drink 8oz of water for every cocktail, beer or wine consumed. - Drink water before, during and after exercise.
- Remind guests visiting from a moister environment to drink more water than they normally do.
- Remember, as with most conditions, prevention is much easier than treatment.
Speaking of hot summer weather, did you know the term “Dog Days” originates from ancient Greece?
It refers to the time of year when Sirius, the brightest star in the sky, would rise with the sun- from July 24th – August 24th. Sirius is the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (large dog), and is referred to as the Dog Star. The ancient Greeks and Romans mistakenly believed the increased heat in August was due to the heat from Sirius combined with the sun’s heat.
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and maintaining adequate hydration is essential for your skin’s health and appearance. Under hydrated skin can lead to rashes, itching, redness and irritation by decreasing its barrier function. For added skin hydration consider Hydrating Complex from SkinMedica.