Some simple advice on a healthy summer holiday!

You can always talk to us to ask advice, either come in to see us or telephone on 01904 721 541 or email us at info@thepriorypharmacy.co.uk

Always pack a first aid kit. This should contain vital regular medication plus essentials to deal with illnesses that may be encountered while away.

• Travel/motion sickness – prevents sickness caused by travelling by car, air or sea.
• Diarrhoea – tablets to treat diarrhoea plus rehydration powder to prevent dehydration.
• Indigestion – a different diet may result in indigestion / heartburn. These can easily be treated with medication in tablet or liquid form.
• Pain relievers - Aspirin, Paracetamol, or ibuprofen can be used to relieve headache, muscle pain, toothache and other pains.
• Insect bites – antihistamine creams are effective at controlling the itching of insect bites or stings.
• Range of plasters, antiseptic creams and bandages

Summer holiday health tips

•  Drink plenty of water, especially when out in the sun

•  Wear high factor sun cream and apply regularly

•  Don't stay in the sun for long periods

•  Moisturise your skin each night with after sun

What Sun Protection Factor should our family be using this summer?

Using the correct sun protection factor (SPF) is vitally important to provide the right protection to your family's skin. The table below provides a good indication of the range of factors you should be using depending on your destination and skin colour.

What general tips can you give with regards to keeping safe in the sun?

•  Avoid the sun from 12-2pm ( 3pm in the tropics)

•  Adults should wear a brimmed hat, long sleeved shirts & sunglasses. Children should wear long sleeved shirts, hats and high-factor waterproof sunscreen.

•  Never lie in the sun to dry off after swimming, the skin will burn in a matter of minutes.

•  High altitude climbers etc. should wear a hat with a neck cover and sunglasses with nose shields and blinker side pieces.

•  Wear cotton fabrics next to the skin, they are cooler. Avoid loose weave fabrics that allow penetration of the sun's rays.

•  Always drink plenty of water when you are out in the sun.

What are the effects of sunstroke?

Sunstroke/heatstroke is caused by prolonged exposure to hot temperatures. It can become serious if not treated. Cool the person down, ensure they drink plenty of water, and seek medical advice.

What is prickly heat, and what is the best treatment for it?

Prickly heat is a very itchy red skin rash, causing a prickling or burning feeling. It may occur when you sweat a lot in hot or humid weather. The skin becomes inflamed with a spotty rash that may blister. The following will treat the symptoms of prickly heat.

•  Calamine lotion and natural oatmeal based creams can be soothing.

•  Anti-histamine creams or tablets will relieve the itch.

•  If rash persists, a mild steroid cream may soothe the irritation. Always read the instructions.

What is the best treatment of Sunburn?

•  Get the person out of the sun.

•  Cool the skin where possible with cold running water, a cold shower or immersion in a cool to luke warm bath.

•  Avoid direct pressure to the burnt area.

•  Give pain killers.

•  Apply calamine lotion, witch hazel or after sun lotion. After sun is very effective at cooling, calming and moisturising the skin, it will also help to prevent peeling.

Remember: Sunburn is always preventable.

How can I best avoid jet lag?

On the Flight

•  Adapt to local time as soon as you get on the plane

•  Eat at same time as your destination but avoid over eating/drinking

•  Drink plenty of water

Try to sleep/nap on the plane – This is especially important if it is going to be daytime when you arrive

When You Arrive

•  Get into a routine quickly

•  Do some light exercise

•  Drink plenty of fluids including some re-hydration sachets

•  Try to get some natural light

•  Avoid s lee ping until bedtime – No napping

Do not drink caffeine, alcohol or smoke 3 hours before going to bed.