I adore this time of year – the trees are eventually showing their acid green leaves, buds and flowers are in abundance and there is the promise of warm sultry days in the air. It is only fitting therefore that this month’s article serves as a timely reminder for us to begin to prepare for all things summer.
Sun Safety
- Avoid sun exposure during the times of day when there is strong sunlight, typically from 11am – 3pm: 50 -70% of skin cancers are linked to overexposure to UVB and UVA rays. !
- Reduce children's exposure to the sun: 80% of skin damage caused by the sun occurs before the age of 18. !
- Use a very high factor sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays - sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or above with a minimum of 4 stars to denote a broad -spectrum cover. Do not re-use last year’s cream as it does lose its effectiveness. Apply generously (6 full teaspoons for an average adult)15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply again after exercise, swimming or towelling or at least every two hours. !
- Wear protective clothing, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat and use shade!
- Consult your GP or a dermatologist if a skin lesion appears or if you observe any changes in a mole. Stay vigilant and monitor your moles – try using a Mole Checker!
Travel Vaccines and Mosquitos
Prior to travelling anywhere overseas, it is worth checking that your routine UK vaccinations are up to date. Specific travel vaccination is generally only required if you are travelling to areas such as Central and South America, parts of Africa, Asian sub-continent, or Southeast Asia. Seek consultation with your GP or a travel medicine specialist at least twelve weeks before travel.
Anti-malarial tablets may be required for some areas of travel. There are several types of medication available all of which need to be started prior to travel and finished after you have returned. Mosquitoes are also responsible for transmitting other diseases. Use insect repellent containing DEET minimum 30% and cover exposed skin with clothing. If applying during the day, always apply sunscreen first, allow this to absorb and then apply the repellent. Re-apply regularly.
Keep Hydrated
As we don’t have a water storage facility in our body, it must be replaced regularly by water from our diet. Official NHS guidance suggests adults should drink 8-10 200ml glasses of fluid a day and children 6-8 glasses. 70–80% of daily water intake should come from drinks, the remaining 20–30 % should come from food.
Keep cool in extreme heat
Heat exhaustion can cause faintness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and fatigue. If not treated it can lead to heatstroke which can be fatal as the body becomes unable to cool itself. To help prevent this, wear lightweight clothing, avoid direct sunlight, drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals. Seek medical attention immediately if you think you may have heatstroke.
Wear sunglasses
They protect your eyes against the suns UV rays, reduce glare and protect from long-term damage including cataracts, macular degeneration, cancer, photokeratitis (sunburnt eye) and wrinkles! It is important to choose sunglasses that protect your eyes from 99 – 100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Make sure the label says UV400 or 400nm and remember price is not an indication of protection.
"Friends, sun, sand, and sea, that sounds like a summer to me." – Unknown
