Portugal is one of the countries in Europe with the highest number of sunny days per year. In recent years, as global temperatures have risen, the number of deaths due to excessive heat has increased by 53% worldwide in people over 65. Excessive heat is most severe in the elderly and children, the most vulnerable age groups, who allocate a lot of energy regulating their body temperature. Thermal regulation is demanding for the heart, which can simply reach a point of exhaustion.
Therefore, for some age groups, it is essential to avoid sun exposure between 10am and 4pm. Everyone should take care to follow general protection measures, such as wearing a hat, drinking plenty of water and seeking shade. They should also consume water-rich foods such as fruit or salads.
If you have an unusual reaction to the sun, such as red spots, intense itching, irritation and sensitivity, burning sensation and blisters with clear liquid inside, you should seek medical help, as it may be a sun allergy, which currently affects about 10% of the Portuguese population.
At Joaquim Chaves Saúde, you will find an experienced clinical team in several areas, to accompany you if you need medical support. In the case of the Dermatology speciality, it is available at the Clínica Cirúrgica de Carcavelos, the Clínica de Cascais, the Clínica de Entrecampos, the Clínica de Miraflores and the Clínica de Sintra.
Enjoy your holidays, always in safety!