Marine
Dangers
Sunburn
Skin
cancer is on the rise and is more important than ever, particularly
in kids. People should use suntan lotion that is effective against
UVA and UVB radiation, and also has high Skin Protective
Factor (SPF) rating.
Sunburn
consists of 2 phases. The first phase is the thermal damage which
is then followed by the inflammatory phase as the body produces
chemicals that cause pain, redness, and swelling. Sunburn can be
relieved with cool compresses, aloe vera, and aspirin.
Hats
and lip balms are
also essential.
Sunscreen
is most effective
if put on at least 30 minutes prior to sun exposure (it takes time
for sunscreen to chemically bond properly).
Clothing
also has SPF.
Clothing with tight weaves have the best protection, but all clothing
loses its sunscreen ability when wet, as the water opens up the
stitches.
Newer
lines of clothing have been developed that have enhanced SPF protection
yet are light and comfortable.
Drowning
Drowning
still occurs at pools, beaches and in foreign countries and is a
major cause of death in Children and Young Adults. Many drownings
can be prevented. Learning to swim at an early age helps. Small
children should always be supervised. Parents may assume that lifeguards
will look after their children, but this is something they cannot
do. Lifeguards and other safety workers should be respected and
obeyed. Off-duty medical people should identify themselves in case
of an emergency. Even someone who has apparently survived a near
drowning experience should be closely examined at a medical
facility as that may have delayed problems.
Jelly
Fish
Jelly
Fish actually kill more people than sharks. Serious allergic reactions
occur when the cysts of jelly fish erupt, stinging people, causing
venom release. If stung, was off the remaining tentacles. Vinegar
can also be used. It is important to not use fresh water (this causes
the poison sacs to explode). Some jelly fish venoms require anti-venom
treatment. At present, the best way to deal with jelly fish is to
avoid them.
Sea
Bathers Eruptions
A
rash will develop usually over areas covered by a bathing suit from
contact with stinging jelly fish larvae. The nuisance is self-limited
and is treated symptomatically.
Sharks
Sharks
are over-exaggerated as a threat, yet they still remain a risk.
Be
knowledge of where they are and prevent swimming or diving.
Swimming
with dogs or horses can attract sharks because of the noise of these
animals.
If
you see a shark, quietly and slowly leave the water and avoid splashing.
If confrontation
is unavoidable, place yourself behind an object (i.e. air cylinder).
Blowing air bubbles may be enough to repel a shark. If possible
a punch to the snout will also work!
Touching
sharkskin may cause abrasive wounds.
Blood
and bodily fluids attract
sharks include urine and feces. Contrary to popular belief menstruating
women do not attract sharks. Speared fish can also over-stimulate
sharks into a “feeding frenzy”.
Certain
behaviours such as splashing, being outlined (from below) next to
a boat, and open wounds, can attract sharks and make them confuse
you with prey. Menstruating women do not attract sharks.
About
Us…
The
Skylark Medical Clinic specializes in Sports and Travel medicine.
The director of our clinic is Dr. Gary Podolsky who has worked on
Carnival Cruise Lines as Chief Medical Officer and is the past director
of the Grand Beach Medical Clinic.
Don't
get sick on your next trip…
Call
and make your appointment today!!
Skylark
Medical Clinic
264
Tache Avenue
Winnipeg,
MB R2H 1Z9
Ph:
453-9107 Fax: 453-9115
Website:
www.skylarkmedicalclinic.com
Copywrite
Skylark Medical Clinic 2003. May be copied for
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