Summer health tips

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What to do if you're sunburnt?

While sunburn is usually short-lived, it's important to avoid because it can increase the chances of developing skin cancer in later life. Below are some tips on how to treat mild sunburn:

• get out of direct sunlight as soon as possible
• cool skin by sponging with cool water or have a cool bath or shower – applying a cold compress to the affected area may also help
• drink plenty of fluids to bring temperature down and prevent dehydration
• apply a water-based cream, emollient or petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) to keep skin cool and moist
• if necessary, take painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
• try to avoid all sunlight, including through windows, by covering up the affected areas of skin until your skin has fully healed

• the sunburn is over a large area
• there is blistering or swelling of the skin
• you have chills or a high temperature of 38C or above, or 37.5C or above in children under five
• there are symptoms of dizziness, headaches and feeling sick (possible heat exhaustion)

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How to cool someone down

Follow these four steps:

1. move them to a cool place
2. get them to lie down and raise their feet slightly
3. get them to drink plenty of water - sports or rehydration drinks are OK
4. cool their skin using a spray, or sponge them with cool water and fan them - cold packs around the armpits or neck are good too

• is no better after 30 minutes
• feels hot and dry
• is not sweating even though they are too hot
• has a temperature that's risen to 40C or above
• has rapid or shortness of breath
• is confused
• has a fit (seizure)
• loses consciousness
• is unresponsive

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Where can I get help?

• NHS 111
• when to call 999 and ambulance services
• A&E departments
• urgent care walk-in services
• pharmacies
• when to see your GP
  

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