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A SUMMER PRIMER: A MEDICAL CHECKLIST FOR A HEALTHIER SEASON by Ihor Magun, M.D., F.A.C.P. Sun exposure: The main recommendation is to limit your sun exposure, especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Less tan is best. Tanning leads to premature aging and wrinkles, and studies show it can interfere with the immune system. Make it a habit to use sunscreen whenever you go outdoors, not only at the beach. You must remember to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days. If boating, be careful of sun reflection from the water and exercise caution on windy days. Sun plus wind can cause an uncom fortable bum. SPF (sun protector factor) filters 92% of ultraviolet В waves that damage skin. The higher the SPF, the more protection is offered. SPF should be no less than 15. With SPF 15 protection, an individual who gets sunburned in 10 minutes will be protected from sunburn for approximately 150 minutes. Sunscreen should be applied about a half hour before going outside for optimal absorption and efficiency. Lips should be protected with an SPF lib balm. Reapply sunscreen after sweating or prolonged bathing. Clothing: Light colored, long sleeved cotton clothing also provides us with comfortable sun protection and "sun protective clothing" is currently available. It is somewhat costly, but worth the investment. Regular clothing provides an SPF of about 6.5; sun protective clothing provides an SPF of 30. Hats provide an SPF of 3-6. Be aware that children are more at risk from sunburn than adults. Research has substantiated that sunburn in children doubles the lifetime risk of skin cancer. Sunglasses: Eye protection from the sun is also important. The sun can damage the cornea and lead to cataract formation. Make certain that sunglasses have 100% ultraviolet radiation protection. Merely colored lenses do not provide any protection. Sunburn: If, despite all precautions, you should get a sunburn, creams containing aloe can be soothing. Short, lukewarm baths or showers are helpful, and aspirin or ibuprofin can help with pain control. Most sunburns are classified as first degree bums. If there is any evidence of a greater degree of skin damage, pain or infection, prompt medical attention should be sought. Skin lesions: Working in a garden or walking through a field can produce a skin rash. Such rashes are usually red in color and can be accompanied by blisters. It is important to wash the affected area well, and subsequently, to dry it well. Avoid scratching at all costs as this leads to infection and spreading of the rash. Over the counter calamine/caladryl lotion is helpful. Oral antihistamines, such as benadryl, help diminish the itch. If all these fail, steroid-based tablets or creams may become necessary. These can be prescribed by your physician. Athlete's foot: Although this common condition can occur at any time of the year, it may be more noticeable and more prevalent during the summer months. Athlete's foot can affect anyone, and can cause itching, burning, and pain. The symptoms are redness, scaling, cracks or blistered skin. Some individuals are more vulnerable to this condition than others. Simple rules for prevention apply. Keep your feet covered by wearing appropriate footwear at the beach and in locker rooms. Wash and dry your feet well. The fungus that causes athlete's foot enjoys a wet, moist, environment. Com starch powder and a variety of over the counter foot powders can be helpful. Protect yourself and go out there and enjoy! And don't forget to throw in several good helpings of fresh fruits and vegetables. They are in season and a tasty way to keep you healthy. Н А Ш Е Ж И Т Т Я ”, Л И П Е Н Ь -С Е Р П Е Н Ь 2003 17
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