Stay safe in the Sun
This article is from My Family UK. Relaxing in the sun may seem like paradise to us sun-starved Brits, but overexposure to UV rays in sunlight can lead to painful sunburn and more serious medical problems. Dangers Below are a few things to bear in mind when enjoying the sun. All of these dangers can ruin a holiday and damage your health.
1) Sunburn and skin damage Look out for red, painful skin that is warm to the touch. This may later peel or blister in more severe cases. Overexposure to sunlight also causes skin damage and premature ageing of the skin.
2) Heat exhaustion Rising body temperature and dehydration as a result of exposure to excessive heat can cause heat exhaustion. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, tiredness, loss of appetite, and fever. More serious cases can lead to heatstroke, which may require hospitalisation.
3) Skin cancer The risk of developing skin cancer in later life is also increased by exposure to UV light. Look out for bumps, lesions or skin discolorations that fail to heal and new moles or moles that change appearance. Treatment Take the affected person to a cool place out of the sun and give them plenty of fluids. Cover skin with loose-fitting cotton clothing until the symptoms get better.
Sponge mild sunburn with lukewarm water and use aftersun or calamine lotion to cool and rehydrate the skin. Consult a doctor or ring NHS Direct on 0845 4647 if an infant or small child is burnt, or if more severe symptoms such as a rash, blisters or fever, appear. Prevention Pre-empt the problems above with these tips.
1) Stay in the shade Children have more sensitive skin than adults, so infants and very young children should be kept out of the sun – those with pale skin and hair are also more at risk Avoid being exposed during the hottest part of the day when the sun’s rays are strongest (between 11am and 3pm) Cover up with hats, beach umbrellas, loose-fitting clothing and sunglasses with UV protection
2) Use sun cream Use sun cream with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. The higher the SPF, the more protection it will provide. Try and get a broad spectrum sun cream – as well as SPF, which only tells you about protection against UVB light, also look at protection against UVA light which is indicated by a five star system Make sure you apply enough cream (follow the manufacturer’s instructions) and use a waterproof sun cream if you or your family will be swimming. Apply the cream 15-30 minutes before exposure to the sun and reapply every two hours Watch out for burning even on cloudy days and in cooler climates – the effects of sunburn may be lessened by a cool breeze or swimming
3) Keep hydrated Help your body regulate its temperature and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids – alcohol and caffeinated drinks don’t count Avoid strenuous activity in the heat if you’re not used to it, and adjust slowly to hot temperatures when you go on holiday.
Further Information For further information, and for more great ways to have fun with your family, log on to www.myfamilyuk.com. With a huge collection of articles covering everything from child safety to rainy day activities, you’ll find all the help, guidance and entertainment you need to be a great parent. Go to My Family UK now!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/stay-safe-in-the-sun-995651.html
About the AuthorMy Family UK is a brand new website that is turning the online focus back onto families. We’re dedicated to supporting you and your family live the life you choose to the full, with games, tips, offers and articles on all aspects of parenting. If your family means the world to you, check out www.myfamilyuk.com.
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