Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses
As the mercury rises, it's essential to know how hot weather affects the body. When temperatures soar, the body's blood vessels open up, leading to a drop in blood pressure. This can cause mild symptoms like an itchy heat rash or swollen feet. However, if the body loses too much fluid and salt, it can lead to heat exhaustion. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
What are UV Levels and How Can You Protect Yourself?
UV radiation is essential for our wellbeing, but excessive exposure can cause skin cancer and eye problems. During periods of extreme heat, UV levels are expected to be high. To protect yourself, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. "Every exposure to UV, especially every sunburn, increases our risk of skin cancer," warns Prof. Dorothy Bennett from St. George's, University of London.
Breakthroughs in Mental Health Treatment
In a significant development, Definium Therapeutics announced that its LSD therapy helped patients with major depression in its first Phase 3 trial. This brings the psychedelic drug closer to potential approval. Meanwhile, the FDA has reversed its decision on Regenxbio's experimental gene therapy for a rare childhood brain disorder, offering new hope for families affected by this condition.
Key Facts
- What: Breakthroughs in LSD therapy and gene therapy for mental health conditions
- Impact: Potential new treatments for major depression and rare childhood disorders
What to Do If You Think Someone Has Heat Exhaustion or Heatstroke
Heat exhaustion is not usually serious, but heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect someone has heat exhaustion or heatstroke, move them to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and provide cool water. If the person is unconscious or shows signs of heatstroke, call emergency services immediately.
What Experts Say
"Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can affect anyone, but some people are more vulnerable, such as older adults, young children, and people with long-term health conditions." — Michelle Roberts, Digital Health Editor
What Comes Next
As the heatwave continues, it's essential to stay informed about heat-related illnesses and take necessary precautions. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in mental health treatment offer new hope for those affected by depression and rare disorders. Stay tuned for further updates on these developments.
Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses
As the mercury rises, it's essential to know how hot weather affects the body. When temperatures soar, the body's blood vessels open up, leading to a drop in blood pressure. This can cause mild symptoms like an itchy heat rash or swollen feet. However, if the body loses too much fluid and salt, it can lead to heat exhaustion. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
What are UV Levels and How Can You Protect Yourself?
UV radiation is essential for our wellbeing, but excessive exposure can cause skin cancer and eye problems. During periods of extreme heat, UV levels are expected to be high. To protect yourself, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. "Every exposure to UV, especially every sunburn, increases our risk of skin cancer," warns Prof. Dorothy Bennett from St. George's, University of London.
Breakthroughs in Mental Health Treatment
In a significant development, Definium Therapeutics announced that its LSD therapy helped patients with major depression in its first Phase 3 trial. This brings the psychedelic drug closer to potential approval. Meanwhile, the FDA has reversed its decision on Regenxbio's experimental gene therapy for a rare childhood brain disorder, offering new hope for families affected by this condition.
Key Facts
- What: Breakthroughs in LSD therapy and gene therapy for mental health conditions
- Impact: Potential new treatments for major depression and rare childhood disorders
What to Do If You Think Someone Has Heat Exhaustion or Heatstroke
Heat exhaustion is not usually serious, but heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect someone has heat exhaustion or heatstroke, move them to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and provide cool water. If the person is unconscious or shows signs of heatstroke, call emergency services immediately.
What Experts Say
"Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can affect anyone, but some people are more vulnerable, such as older adults, young children, and people with long-term health conditions." — Michelle Roberts, Digital Health Editor
What Comes Next
As the heatwave continues, it's essential to stay informed about heat-related illnesses and take necessary precautions. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in mental health treatment offer new hope for those affected by depression and rare disorders. Stay tuned for further updates on these developments.