Image provided by: University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR
About Oregon daily emerald. (Eugene, Or.) 1920-2012 | View Entire Issue (June 2, 1982)
WELL NOW... A Health Newsletter Published By The Student Health Center School is out for Summer! ZZ THE SUN, SUNBURN, SUNSTROKE Sumner 1s fast approachinq us 1n Eugene, with less rainy days and much more sunshine. Special attention to the sun and Its effects are Impor tant at this time of year. The most comnon problem caused by the sun 1s sunburn. In mild cases, the skin 1s red and ten der. In more serious cases, the skin swells and blisters. To prevent sunburn, stay out in 1t Initially for only 10-15 minutes and gradually Increase vour exposure. This apolles to sunlamps as well as the sun, since sunlamps can cause ex tensive and painful bum 1f prooer caution 1s not exercised. Suntan lotions have varying effects. Some will screen the sun's rays; some lubricate the skin to prevent drvlng; some stain or "bronze" the skin; and some may cause alleralc reactions. The best sunscreens (that oermit tanning and ore vent bumlnq) contain PABA (pa rami no benzoic acid). Continued exposure to the sun can result 1n aged sk1n-sk1n that 1s leathery, wrinkled, in elastic. dry, and chapped. It may also cause skin cancer. If any sores don't heal, or any lesions appear, see a doctor. Heat exhaustion is caused by a salt imbalance and dehydration. The skin is cold and clammy, and the person may complain of nausea and head ache. Move the person into cooler surroundings and make sure that the head and shoulders are lower than the rest of the body. Si os of water should be given. Get the person to a doctor as soon as possible. Sunstroke (heatstroke) is more serious than heat exhaustion and is characterized by high fever, dry and flushed skin, dizziness, rapid pulse, headache, and in severe cases, uncon sciousness. Move the person into cooler surround ings, have him/her He on his/her back with head and shoulders slightly raised, and sponge him/ her with cool water to reduce body temperature. Get medical attention. Sunstroke and heat exhaustion can be preven ted by stayinq out of the heat as much as possi ble,limiting hard physical exertion during the hot periods of the day, wearing light, loose clothing, and drinking plenty of water.
