STAY HEALTHY IN THE HEAT!

HAVE FUN IN THE SUN WHILE KEEPING SAFE

While sunny days are fun, rising temperatures and humidity levels can play havoc with your health. You can still enjoy the warm weather, just listen to your body’s cues.

SUNBURN

The Cancer Council estimates two in three Aussies will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they’re 70 – and serious sunburns increase your chances of developing it.

Sunburn can occur in less than 15 minutes and symptoms include redness, skin that feels hot to the touch, pain or itching, swelling and blisters.

SOLUTION: Reduce risk of sunburn by being smart when out in the sun. “Use a combination of protective measures, including wearing protective clothing, sunglasses and a hat, applying a broadspectrum sunscreen [SPF 30+], and seeking shade,” GP Dr Magdalena Simonis says. If you do get too much sun, try rehydrating, moisturising and oral pain relief if needed.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when your body temperature rises above 40.5°C. While it can affect anyone, young children, the elderly and the sick or overweight are most at risk.

“People on medications, such as blood-pressure tablets, are also at risk,” Dr Simonis adds. “Drinking alcohol in the sun [also] increases chances of dehydration and heat stroke.”

Warning signs include paleness, sweating, headache, cramps, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and fainting.

SOLUTION: “Drink water, wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and take extra precautions with medicines,” advises Dr Simonis. If someone’s showing signs of heat exhaustion, cool them down by removing outer clothing and wet their skin with water or damp cloths. Increase fluid intake if they’re fully conscious and seek medical help if there’s no significant improvement.

HEAT RASHES

This occurs when moisture becomes trapped under skin, resulting in itchy spots and skin infections, such as folliculitis. “It’s mostly due to rubbing and bacteria build-up, but can also be due to fungal infections,” says Dr Simonis.

SOLUTION: Keep the area clean and dry, and apply calamine lotion or a steroid cream. “Good skin hygiene, loose-fitting clothing and proper shaving techniques [can help prevent folliculitis],” assures Dr Simonis.