David Rzeszutko, MD, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Physician with Michigan Medical, P.C. (mmpc), encourages you to keep your family safe in the sun and pool this Summer by following these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Sun Safety
http://www.aap.org/family/protectsun.htm
Babies under 6 months:
· Avoiding sun exposure and dressing infants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and brimmed hats that shade the neck are still the top recommendations from the AAP to prevent sunburn. However when adequate clothing and shade are not available, parents can apply a minimal amount of suncreen with at least 15 SPF to small areas, such as the infant's face and the back of the hands.
For Young Children:
· Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, and use sunscreen even on cloudy days. The SPF should be at least 15.
For Older Children:
· The first, and best, line of defense against the sun is covering up. Wear a hat with a three inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses (look for sunglasses that block 99-100% of ultraviolet rays), and cotton clothing with a tight weave.
· Stay in the shade whenever possible, and limit sun exposure during the peak intensity hours - between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
· Use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or greater. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen - about one ounce per sitting for a young adult.
· Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
· Use extra caution near water and sand, as they reflect UV rays and may result in sunburn more quickly.
Heat Stress in Exercising Children
· The intensity of activities that last 15 minutes or more should be reduced whenever high heat and humidity reach critical levels.
· At the beginning of a strenuous exercise program or after traveling to a warmer climate, the intensity and duration of exercise should be limited initially and then gradually increased during a period of 10 to 14 days to accomplish acclimatization to the heat.
· Before prolonged physical activity, the child should be well-hydrated. During the activity, periodic drinking should be enforced, for example, each 20 minutes, 5 oz of cold tap water or a flavored sports drink for a child weighing 90 lbs, and 9 oz for an adolescent weighing 130 lbs, even if the child does not feel thirsty.
· Clothing should be light-colored and lightweight and limited to one layer of absorbent material to facilitate evaporation of sweat. Sweat-saturated garments should be replaced by dry garments.
· Practices and games played in the heat should be shortened and more frequent water/hydration breaks should be instituted.
Pool Safety
· Install a fence at least four-feet high around all four sides of the pool. The fence should not have openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through.
· Make sure pool gates open out from the pool, and self-close and self-latch at a height children can't reach.
· Never leave children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment.
· Keep rescue equipment (a shepherd's hook - a long pole with a hook on the end - and life preserver) and a portable telephone near the pool.
· Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as "floaties." They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children a false sense of security.
· Children may not be developmentally ready for swim lessons until after their fourth birthday. Swim programs for children under 4 should not be seen as a way to decrease the risk of drowning.
· Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm's length, providing "touch supervision."
“Common sense is important when it comes to fun in the sun,” says Dr. Ruzeszutko. “By following the above tips, you can prevent potential health problems for your children.” To learn more, visit us on the web at www.mmpc.com.
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
About mmpc
Michigan Medical, P.C. is the largest physician owned, multi-specialty group in Michigan. Currently, mmpc has over 300 health care providers in 30 locations across West Michigan in more than 30 specialties. By putting patients first, mmpc is committed to offering the highest standard of healthcare for you and your family. We walk our talk when it comes to valuing our patients by providing excellent medical care in our professional, welcoming facilities across West Michigan. Comprehensive, confidential care, exceptional physicians, and patient satisfaction are hallmarks of mmpc's success. To learn more about mmpc and the services we provide, please visit the web site, at www.mmpc.com.
