Preparing for a holiday can be exciting, but it is also vital that you focus on your health
Preparing for a holiday can be exciting, but it is also vital that you focus on your health.
SameDayDoctor’s Dr Gurpreet K Gill helps you answer some crucial questions before travelling I would really like to get a tan this summer, but I am fully aware I need to protect my skin. What can you suggest?Both UVA and UVB are harmful and can damage and age the skin, as well as increase the risk of skin, cancer. I would advise using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB of at least a factor 15. This should be applied 30 minutes before going in to the sun and reapplied once you are in the sun. Sunglasses with adequate UV protection and a hat with a large brim will also help to protect the skin from harmful UV rays. Should I get my moles checked before my holiday or after I return? Any change in the colour or size of a mole, or if a mole becomes itchy or is bleeding, suggests that a mole needs to be examined in more detail. For people with more moles than others I advise yearly checks, as it may be difficult to see if a mole has changed. Adequate sun protection is always advised, not just when you are on holiday I love being in the sun but it really makes me sweat profusely. Can you recommend any treatments or products?I would advise using an antiperspirant instead of a deodorant, wear loose clothing made from natural fibres and avoid excessive alcohol. If this doesn’t help, you should speak to a GP about other prescribed treatments and procedures that can be offered. Nearly every holiday, one of my children seems to fall ill. Is there anything you can recommend to prevent this?When children become unwell, especially if you are abroad, this can be very worrying for parents. Always check whether any additional travel vaccines are recommended before travelling. If there are any concerns about the quality of water in the area you are visiting, use bottled water and check to see that the seal is intact. This includes water for ice cubes, brushing teeth and washing fruit and salad. Children need to keep hydrated in the sun and also should have adequate sun protection to prevent sunburn. I have just had a baby and we are going to a hot climate for our summer holiday. I am really concerned about the baby being in the sun, what advice can you provide?Young babies under six months of age should be kept out of the sun. If outside in the heat, loose cotton clothing, hats and sunglasses are advised along with a waterproof sunblock for swimming.
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