DOH: Take precautions vs heat rash, sunburn during summer

The Department of Health (DOH) urged the public to take precautions against common skin ailments during summer like heat rash and sunburn. In an interview on Balitanghali, DOH-National Epidemiology Center Director Dr. Eric Tayag said heat rash (or bungang araw) is a common skin ailment during summer. Heat rash occurs one sweats excessively and sweat ducts become clogged, according to the medical reference book Merck. The trapped sweat beneath the skin's surface causes rashes or mild inflamation. Heat rashes are common among young children who play under the sun's heat, Tayag said.
To treat heat rash, he recommended mixing powder with starch and applying it on the affected area. Calamine lotion may also be applied, he said. Sunburn Filipinos, especially those who are in the beach, should also avoid getting sunburn, Tayag said. Sunburn is a result of over-exposure to the sun's rays, which results in painful reddened skin. Severe sunburn may cause swelling and blisters, according to Merck. Tayag advised the use of sunblock lotion with high sun protection factor (SPF), which indicates the effectiveness of its protection. The higher SPF, the better, he said. "Apply (sunblock) liberally 30 minutes before (sun exposure), then re-apply 30 minutes after to get the maximum effect," Tayag said. Petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel may also be used to soothe sunburnt skin, he added. Heat stroke To avoid heat rash, sunburn, and other heat-related ailments like dehydration and heat stroke, the DOH advised the following: