6/8/00

Summer Health Alert

Most of us look forward to the warm summer weather. But if care is not taken, too much fun in the sun can result in health problems, especially during very hot weather. Two concerns that can be minimized by taking appropriate precautions are over-exposure to the sun and heat stress.

Over-exposure to the sun’s ultra-violet rays can contribute to the development of skin cancer and to the formation of cataracts in the eyes. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause damage. Summertime activities such as swimming, fishing, boating water skiing, and sunbathing take place on or near water and sand. Both of these reflect the harmful rays and actually increase the level of exposure beyond that from the direct rays of the sun itself. The effects of too much sun are both immediate and long range; besides sunburn and blisters, overexposure can cause wrinkling and aging of skin, eye damage, skin cancer and may even injure the immune system. Because so many effects are experienced over time, it is especially important to protect children from ultra violet rays in order to reduce their risk of adverse effects later on.

The American Academy of Dermatology and the Skin Cancer foundation, along with doctors from Prevent Blindness America, the American Optometric Association, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommend the following measures to reduce the risks from the sun’s rays:

· Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen every two hours;

· Minimize the amount of time spent in the sun during mid day, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.;

· Wear clothing that covers the body and shades the neck and face;

· Wear sunglasses that absorb 99 to 100 percent of the full UV spectrum in bright sun outdoors. (Read labels carefully—many sunglasses claim to “block harmful UV rays” but fail to state the amount);

· When sunglasses are not a realistic option (such as with children playing outdoors in the snow), wear a hat with a wide brim to help protect the face.

Even for people who do not spend a lot of time in the sun, they along with everyone else can be affected by another summertime health risk—heat stress. Temperatures over 90°F can put a strain on the heart and blood vessels, causing a condition known as heat stress. Older adults and persons with certain medical problems are particularly susceptible to heat stress, which can be fatal if not treated properly.

Symptoms associated with heat stress include dizziness, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, breathing problems, chest pain, severe cramps, exhaustion, rapid heartbeat, changes in mental state, and hot, dry skin with no sweating. If any of these symptoms are experienced, medical attention is advised.

Older adults and others who are at risk of suffering from heat stress can reduce or avoid heat-related problems by taking steps to keep cool. Physical activities during the hottest part of the day should be limited. Clothing that is light-weight, light colored, and loose-fitting is best. When outdoors, a wide-brimmed sun hat is recommended; remember to stay in the shade as much as possible.

Staying in a cool room is best; using a fan to circulate the air during the day and to draw in cooler air at night is helpful if air-conditioning is not available. If there is no fan or air conditioner in the home, cool showers, swimming, and sponging with cool water can be helpful. Senior centers, public libraries, shopping centers, movie theaters, and restaurants are usually air-conditioned and can provide a break from the heat.

It is important to drink plenty of liquids such as water and fruit juices; beverages containing alcohol or caffeine should be avoided. Meals should be light and nutritious, and necessary cooking should be done early in the day when it is cooler.

The Central CT Health District has brochures available about skin cancer and the UV index, as well as heat stress. To obtain a copy or additional information, contact the health district at 721-2822.