With more hot weather forecast this week, NHS 24 are offering advice on how to stay safe in the sun as part of their summer health campaign ‘Hello Summer.’
Dr Laura Ryan, a GP and NHS 24’s Medical Director said: ‘We’ve had a few really hot and sunny days in Scotland this summer, which is brilliant for everyone to spend a lot of time outdoors.
‘Unfortunately, the hot weather isn’t good news for everyone, and it’s really important we follow some simple rules to ensure we avoid becoming unwell.
‘When it comes to being safe in the sun, prevention is definitely better than cure. It is best to avoid being in the sun between 12 noon and 3pm if possible. If you need to be outdoors, we advise that everyone, uses a high factor sun protection cream. The best quality lotions block both UVA and UVB rays. Also wear loose-fitting, light-weight clothing that covers your body.
‘If you’re unfortunate to become sunburnt, there’s simple steps to take to lessen the discomfort. The most obvious piece of advice is to avoid being in the sun at all until the redness subsides and don’t burst any blisters. Cool showers or applying cool towels to your body can provide some relief, using moisturiser which contains aloe vera after your shower, or taking painkillers can help with any painful or tight skin. However please check that pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen is safe for you to take.
‘Another weather-related condition which I wish to draw attention to is heat exhaustion or heat stroke.’
Signs or symptoms of heat stroke can include headache, feeling confused or dizzy, rapid pulse or fast breathing, body cramps (in the arms, legs and stomach), sick or vomiting, feeling dehydrated or thirsty, pale, sweaty or clammy skin, a high temperature of 38C or above.
Dr Laura Ryan continued: ‘If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be shaded from the sun and cooled down. Heat exhaustion is not normally serious if the person is treated within 30 minutes and symptoms begin to improve.
‘If there is no improvement in the person’s condition, but they are conscious, alert and responding normally call your local GP during opening hours for further advice. If your GP is closed, call NHS 24 on 111. If you feel their condition is in any way life-threatening, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.
‘I really encourage everyone to visit NHS inform as it has some great advice on how to stay safe in the sun. By being prepared and following these simple tips, I hope more people will be happy and healthy this summer.’
- NHS inform’s guide on sunburn can be found here – nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/injuries/skin-injuries/sunburn/
- For more hints and tips on how to stay healthy this summer – nhsinform.scot/summer
- General advice and information on how to stay healthy can be found at nhsinform.scot.
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