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How do you like your summer? With lots of sunshine, high temperatures, iced refreshments and Mungo Jerry’s “In The Summertime” on the radio? Possibly. But most certainly not with heat exhaustion, heat strokes, sun burns or rashes, to name just a few of those summertime threats.
But the good news is it doesn’t take much to enjoy summer safely. Just remember a few rules.
Tanning and Sunscreen
Getting that great tan may be desirable for some people, but sunburns are the skin’s reaction to ultraviolet radiation and present a form of skin damage that can, in the worst case, lead to skin cancer. Especially at the beginning of summer, people often tend to underestimate UV radiation. And though the sun’s intensity may not be as strong in Germany as Australia or even Spain, beachgoers should still keep the following in mind: Some people think about sun protection only when they spend a day at the lake, beach or pool. But sun exposure adds up day after day, and it happens every time you are in the sun. Sunglasses, hats and T-shirts can help protect you.
Nowadays, there’s even clothing with UV protection on the market, even swimsuits for children. Using the proper sunscreen is vital. The sun protection factor, or SPF, measures the protection against dangerous UVA and UVB rays in the sunlight. A higher SPF number means more protection.
“When choosing a sunscreen, a good rule of thumb is to choose something that is at least SPF 30,” said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Wendi Wohltmann, a dermatologist at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. “Studies have shown there is not much additional benefit to using sunscreen higher than SPF 50, thus the new labeling guidelines top off at SPF 50+.”
Apply the protection generously and repeatedly, otherwise any protection will wear off.
Heat Rash
Hot, humid weather can lead to a heat rash. This develops when the pores become blocked and perspiration is trapped under the skin. The best way to relieve symptoms is to cool the skin and prevent sweating. Usually, this type of rash goes away on its own. For severe cases, contact your health care provider.
Finally, when temperatures rise, heat rash is especially dangerous for anyone doing any type of manual labour outside, such as gardening or construction.
Drink water every 15 minutes, regardless of your thirst, rest in the shade as much as possible, avoid wearing dark clothing and keep an eye on your fellow worker. Dizziness, weakness, cramps or confusions can be signs of exhaustion or strokes. The U.S. Department of Labor has created a poster with easy guidelines online at www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/3431_wksiteposter_en.pdf.
To read about the myths and truths associated with sunscreen use, check out this story!
