Your ultimate SUMMER HEALTH guide
HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN THE TEMPERATURE RISES
There’s a lot to love about summer but it’s also the season of heatwaves, stingers and sleepless nights – so it pays to have a game plan. “The heat can really zap your energy, and then you toss and turn in bed when it’s still 30 degrees at 10pm,” says GP Dr Michela Sorensen. “If you don’t have aircon put a large bowl of ice in front of a fan – it will blow the cool air from the melting ice around the room.”
HOW DO I DEAL WITH ITCHY HEAT RASH?
“Wear light clothing made from breathable fabric like pure cotton and change your clothes when you do get hot and sweaty. Cool showers and gentle exfoliation of your skin can help with prevention. If heat rash is already troubling you, try antibacterial soaps as well as calamine lotion or mild cortisone creams,” says Dr Sorensen.
BE BEACH SAFE
Follow these tips from Surf Lifesaving Australia operations manager Keiran Stone, for how to treat: BLUEBOTTLE JELLYFISH STINGS “Wash off any remaining tentacles or pick them off with your fingers. They can’t usually sting through the tough skin on your fingers! Immerse the sting in hot water and if the pain isn’t relieved or you can’t immerse, then apply cold packs of wrapped ice. Seek medical aid if the condition deteriorates.” HEATSTROKE
“Heat stroke is when the body’s internal core temperature is above 40C. Signs can include: fatigue, headaches, rapid pulse, staggering, flushed hot skin and irrational or aggressive behaviour. It can be extremely dangerous so call 000 and cool the person down by any means possible – get in the shade, remove clothing, apply ice packs to the neck, groin and armpits, drink a sports (electrolyte drink) or water.”
SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT LYME DISEASE?
“The concept of chronic Lyme disease is controversial and not widely accepted by medical practitioners,” says Dr Sorensen. “However there are several illnesses that can be spread by Australian ticks, so it is important to take prevention measures. Wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors in tick-prone areas, spray clothing and hats with an insect repellent that contains DEET. Always thoroughly check yourself, family members and pets for ticks when returning home.”
MY FEET GET SO SWEATY IN SUMMER! HELP
“Correct footwear choice is really important – plastic or patent shoes increase perspiration so choose shoes with breathable lining such as canvas or leather to reduce sweating,” says Dr Sorensen.