Not Just Sunscreen Usage, Ministry of Health Suggests This to Protect the Body from Heatwave

Dream - The use of sunscreen is not the only way to protect yourself from the dangers of abnormal hot weather or heatwaves. This method can only protect the skin from the dangers of sun exposure, while your body also needs protection to avoid other negative effects.

Perhaps, Dream friends have experienced the negative effects of excessive heat that have occurred recently without realizing it. According to the post from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, excessive heat can cause symptoms that need to be watched out for, such as the following:

• Excessive sweating
• Skin feels hot and dry
• Pale skin
• Feeling palpitations or a faster heartbeat
• Cramps in the legs or abdomen
• Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness
• Small amount of urine and dark yellow color

Preventing the Effects of Heatwave

The Ministry of Health recommends immediately cooling the body with a sponge or wet cloth on the wrists, neck, or other body folds, and drinking plenty of water if experiencing these symptoms. Dream friends also need to consult a doctor if these symptoms do not subside.

Apart from these symptoms, the Ministry of Health suggests several tips to avoid the negative effects of heatwave attacks that can be experienced by the body. Here are some of them:

Drink More Water

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Drink more often than usual. "Don't wait until you're thirsty," explains the post. This is to prevent excessive dehydration that can be experienced due to exposure to hot weather while doing activities indoors or outdoors.

Avoid Certain Drinks

Minimize consumption of caffeinated, energy, alcoholic, or high-sugar drinks. These types of drinks can make you even thirstier and dehydrated.

Protecting the Body from Sun Exposure

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Use a hat or umbrella even if you have already applied sunscreen. This is because the use of sunscreen can be less effective during activities, especially if you sweat, have moist skin, and apply too little sunscreen.

Wear Loose Clothing

Choose lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Make sure your clothes are really comfortable when doing activities outside to avoid excessive heat attacks. Also, avoid wearing dark-colored clothes that can absorb heat.

Take Shelter

As much as possible, seek shelter between 11 am and 3 pm to minimize the negative effects of excessive heat and sun exposure.

Do Not Leave Anything in the Vehicle

Avoid leaving anything in a parked vehicle even if the windows or doors are open. Sunlight entering through the glass can feel hotter than usual, which can be dangerous for yourself or your belongings.

Use Sunscreen

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Use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 on exposed skin. Apply every 2-4 hours with 2 finger lengths to maximize protection.

Bring a Spray Bottle of Water

Provide a cold water spray bottle in the vehicle when traveling to alleviate the negative effects of sun exposure and hot weather, such as skin that feels burning.