Page 4 - Ochsner Philanthropy Magazine - Issue 2
P. 4
KNOW THESE WARNING SIGNS
Signs you may be experiencing heat exhaustion include fatigue, fever, muscle cramps, nausea or dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, call a doctor immediately. Source: National Institutes of Health
Beat the
Heat
THE DOCTOR RECOMMENDS
Bethaney Vincent, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist at Ochsner Health Center — Covington, offers this savvy advice for summertime skin safety:
➜ Avoid the sun at midday, between the hours of 10 a.m. and
2 p.m.
➜ Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects from both
UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of 30 or higher.
➜ Two ounces of sunscreen is the recommended amount to
cover exposed areas of the body; reapply regularly and
liberally if swimming or sweating excessively.
➜ Drink plenty of fluids. Remember, by the time thirst sets
in, you may already be dehydrated.
FIVE STEPS FOR TREATING A SUNBURN:
1. Get out of the sun immediately!
2. Take a cool shower, then slather on a moisturizing lotion.
The hydration may limit skin damage.
3. Burns draw moisture away from the rest of the body. Avoid
dehydration by drinking lots of fluids.
4. Taking ibuprofen or another anti-inflammatory can ease
discomfort while also relieving swelling and redness.
5. If a blistered sunburn covers more than 20 percent of the
body or you begin experiencing chills or fever, seek medical
attention.
Source: Skin Cancer Foundation
Summer is a great time to head outdoors, but excessive heat can also carry risks. Follow these tips to enjoy the sun safely, stay hydrated and avoid exhaustion.
TRUE OR FALSE? / TEST YOUR SUN SMARTS!
I don’t need sunscreen if it’s cloudy outside.
False. Even with gray skies, up to 40 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation still reaches Earth.
Most sun damage occurs during childhood, so it’s too late to protect myself.
False. A recent study found that only 25 percent of lifetime sun exposure occurs before the age of 18. In fact, men over 40 spend the most time outdoors and get the highest doses of UV rays.
Even though they’re fluids, coffee, soda and other caffeinated beverages can actually increase dehydration.
True. Drinks that contain caffeine dehydrate you faster. Stick to water or sports drinks.
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