Staying Safe in the Sun

Sunscreen Is Your Daily Armor

If you’re going to spend more than 15 minutes outside, you need to use sunscreen. Cloudy days can still cause damage to your skin. Ultraviolet radiation won’t wait for a sunny forecast, and it penetrates through clouds. Forgetting this can lead to painful sunburns, and repeated problems over a lifetime can have more serious consequences like premature aging or the development of skin cancer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with 30 SPF or greater is best. Apply it liberally about 15 minutes before going outside, then reapply it every two hours. Don’t skip spots like your ears, the back of your neck, or the tops of your feet. 

Dress for Protection, Not Just Style

What you wear can also offer strong protection from UV rays. Tank tops and shorts will keep you cool, but they leave a lot of skin exposed. Try lightweight long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat.  A lot of brands now offer clothing that has built-in UV protection for extra coverage during long outdoor activities. Don’t forget your eyes because UV rays can lead to cataracts and other eye problems. Sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays can help prevent damage to the cornea and retina. Primary care doctors in Greenbelt, MD can help you find sunglasses that will fit your needs if you wear prescription lenses or have other vision issues. For those with heart conditions, you’ll need to find clothing that protects but also helps you stay cool. A heart doctor may suggest a light-colored, breathable fabric that won’t overheat you.

Hydration Isn’t Optional

Hot weather will increase your body’s demand for fluids. If you’re active or outside all afternoon, you’re going to lose water faster than usual through sweat. Drink water consistently throughout the day rather than wait until you’re feeling thirsty. Carry a refillable bottle and sip it often. If you’re going to be heavily active, try an electrolyte drink as well to replace sodium and potassium. Watch out for drinks that will make dehydration worse, like alcohol or caffeine. If you decide to grab a coffee or cold beer, you’ll need to balance it out with extra water. Dehydration can sneak up fast and cause dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and mental confusion. It can also strain your heart. Hydration is extremely important if you’re under the care of a heart doctor. Low fluid levels can cause blood pressure changes and increased heart rate. If you’re on medications for high blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues, ask your doctor about safe fluid intake levels. Some medications can affect how your body holds water, and they can help you develop a plan for hydration that works best for your personal health needs.

Know the Signs of Heat Illness

Spending too long in high temperatures without protection can lead to conditions like heat stroke or heat exhaustion. These are medical emergencies, and knowing the signs can save lives. Heavy sweating, cold or clammy skin, muscle cramps, nausea, and dizziness are symptoms of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is more severe. Look for a body temperature that’s over 103°F, hot skin, slurred speech, mental confusion, or loss of consciousness. If you or someone with you shows these signs, move to a cool place right away. Use cold compresses, remove extra clothing, and call 911 or go to the emergency room if symptoms are severe.

Enjoy Your Summer and Protect Your Health  

Summertime affects everyone differently. If you have underlying conditions or questions about medication or sun exposure, talk to your doctor. If you’re looking for local primary care doctors for yourself or a loved one, reach out to Southern Maryland Medical Group. Our team is here to help you stay well all year long. Contact us if you need to schedule a wellness visit or need answers.