Sun safety health tips

Update | Monday, July 13, 2020

With the heat of summer upon us, Nichole Bowman-Glover, Wellness coordinator, reminds us of health safety tips from UnitedHealthcare Services to consider during July and August.

Sunscreen: Your skin can burn even on a cloudy day. Use a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30.

Protecting your skin: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Self-exams can help you identify potential skin cancers early.

Use “ABCDE” to help you remember what to look for: Asymmetry: the shape of one half does not match the other. Border that is irregular. Borders of early melanoma can be uneven, notched or scalloped. Color that is uneven. A variety of colors can be a warning sign. Diameter is larger than the eraser on a pencil. Evolving: The mole has changed in size, shape, elevation, or color.

The eyes have it: Help protect your eyes by wearing UV blocking sunglasses and broad- brimmed hats.

Heat-related illnesses
Heat-related illnesses occur when the body is overheated and cannot properly cool itself. Heat-related illnesses can be life-threatening and can also cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.

Heat exhaustion symptons: heavy sweating, cold, pale, clammy skin, fast or weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tired or weakness, dizziness, headache, fainting. Seek medical help right away if the person is vomiting or if symptoms worsen or last more than an hour.

Heatstroke symptoms: High body temperature of 103 degrees F or higher, hot, red, dry or damp skin, fast/strong pulse, headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, losing consciousness. Call 911 right away! Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Help prevent heat-related illnesses by following these simple rules: stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, stay cool indoors, and never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle. Use the buddy system to watch out for those most at risk, including people over 65, people with chronic conditions, infants and children, outdoor workers, low-income households, and athletes.

 

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