There are lot of myths when it comes to summer health and many of them have been around for years. We’re going to debunk some of them and confirm others with our true or false summer quiz. Test your knowledge and see how well you do!
True or False – There’s no such thing as sun poisoning.
True – Although people often refer to severe sunburn as “sun poisoning,” there’s no such thing. Some people develop skin rashes called photodermatosis when they are exposed to intense sunlight. The most common of these typically has red bumps or blisters that itch or burn and sometimes brings on chills, headache, and nausea. About 10% to 20% of the U.S. population develops this condition.
However, heatstroke is very real. Heatstroke is a condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. Heatstroke requires emergency treatment. Untreated heatstroke can quickly damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. The damage worsens the longer treatment is delayed, increasing your risk of serious complications
True or False – Avoid hot showers when you’re sunburned.
True – Heat increases inflammation, stressing your skin further. Cooler water is more soothing. Ice packs, aloe and even common kitchen ingredients like honey, milk and oatmeal can help ease skin inflammation and your misery.
True or False – You should wait at least 30 minutes after eating before swimming.
False – It was once thought that swimming on a full stomach would cause severe muscle cramping and drowning. However, an episode of drowning caused by swimming on a full stomach has never been documented. Neither the American Academy of Pediatrics nor the American Red Cross makes any specific recommendations about waiting any amount of time after eating before taking a swim. As with any exercise after eating, swimming right after a big meal might be uncomfortable, but it won’t cause you to drown.
True or False – Scratching those itchy mosquito bites makes them worse.
True – Even light scratching causes the skin to release more histamine, the allergen that leads to more itching and swelling. Instead, press an ice pack against the bite – it will slow the chemical reaction and soothe itching.
True or False – Swallowing watermelon seeds causes appendicitis.
False – Though our bodies are unable to digest watermelon seeds, they pass through our system just fine. If you’ve swallowed a few, don’t worry – just stay hydrated and continue eating normally.
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