Staying hydrated and sun-safe is a must in the summer says the Deputy Director of Redcliffe Hospital’s Emergency Department Dr Alan Yan.
Each year the hot summer sun and heat cause life-threatening medical emergencies.
“Last summer, Redcliffe’s Emergency Department treated around 60 people for heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and sunburn,” says Dr Yan.
“By being aware of the risks and taking some extra precautions and extra care this summer, we want everyone to help bring that number down.”
Dr Yan said dehydration was one of the biggest risks in summer, especially for older people and children.
“Dehydration occurs when our bodies lose too much water, and that water doesn't get replaced quickly enough. In the summer heat, it can happen quickly,” says Dr Yan.
“In the early stages, you may feel thirsty and be producing brighter or darker urine than normal with a bit of a headache.
“At that early stage, treatment can be as simple as drinking more water and sitting down and resting somewhere cool.
“When dehydration is not addressed quickly though, things can get much more serious leading to heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke - a life-threatening emergency.”
Dr Yan says for most people avoiding dehydration was as easy as staying out of the heat as much as possible and drinking plenty of water on hot days.
“Water is best. Drinking alcohol, tea, coffee, energy or sugary soft drinks can make you more dehydrated,” he says.
“For children, it's important they're reminded to take regular drink-breaks. For older people, it's best to spend hot summer days in cool places where there's plenty of circulating air."
Dr Yan said if you suspect someone is suffering from a heat-related illness, call triple zero or 13 HEALTH for advice.
There’s more news here
A Warner mum is planning to make a splash and surprise her family with a new pool for Christmas after winning more than $16,000 in the latest Super 66 draw.…
We take a look inside Gold’s Gym at Kippa-Ring, which will open its doors at 9am tomorrow and meet the team. It’s massive, with the latest equipment and fitness options for everyone. …
Moreton Bay Region Weather • 16-5-2022 • Nick Crockford
Last week's torrential rain wrecked Moreton Bay Region events and had many weather gauges filling fast. Here's the rainfall figures for last week.…
Moreton Bay Region Weather • 16-5-2022 • Kylie Knight
Personal hardship disaster assistance has been extended to residents affected by recent severe weather and flooding in the Moreton Bay Regional Council area. Here’s how to apply…
Moreton Bay Region Weather • 15-5-2022 • Ethan Schilling
Heavy rainfall causes disruptions to drivers across the region with multiple road closures…
Moreton Bay Region Weather • 14-5-2022 • Nick Crockford
Roads across the Moreton Bay Region are being impacted by this morning’s rain with many now closed.…
Local News • 5-5-2022 • Ashleigh Howarth
The University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) will today begin a clinical trial of a potential new influenza vaccine ahead of the winter season. Find out what the trial involves here …
Local News • 26-4-2022 • Kylie Knight
Organisers hope more than 400 people will take part in this year’s Walking Off the War Within Brisbane event on the Redcliffe peninsula in May. The walk aims to raise awareness of mental health challenges faced by veterans and emergency services personnel. Find out more…