As weather forecasters predict a spell of hot weather across Lanarkshire over the weekend, health experts are advising people to remember to take care in the sun.

Doctors in Lanarkshire are advising people to remember to take care in the sun, particularly the very young, the very old and those with chronic diseases. It is not just sun-burn, dehydration and hay fever which people need to be mindful of but the hot weather can affect people with respiratory problems, particularly the elderly.

Doctors are also asking people to access their local health services appropriately ensuring everyone gets the right care in the right place for their ailments and are being seen and treated as quickly as possible.

Dr Jane Burns, NHS Lanarkshire’s medical director is also asking people to look after their skin in the sun.

Dr Burns said: “The next few days are predicted to be very warm, so it’s understandable that people want to spend time outside.  It has been a very challenging 18 months and we want everyone to enjoy the good weather but people need to be sensible and take precautions.

“A number of people in Lanarkshire are fair skinned and need to take steps to ensure their skin is protected by wearing sun-cream.  Children are especially vulnerable and care should be taken to ensure they are covered up adequately. Babies, in particular, need to be covered up. With both sun-creams and clothing that offers their skin protection.”

Dr Burns is also stressing the importance of accessing the right healthcare service if you have been overexposed to the sun.

Dr Burns added: “There is a wealth of information on the NHS Inform website at https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/injuries/skin-injuries/sunburn on treating sun burn and if you are dehydrated.  Anyone who feel they need to seek medical attention should call NHS24 on 111 and they will direct you to appropriate service whether that be your local pharmacy, the GP out of hours service or a local minor injuries unit.”

By following these few simple rules people can stay sun-burn free and hydrated:

• limit your time in the midday sun and use shade wisely;
• wear protective clothing;
• a hat with a wide brim offers good sun protection for your eyes, ears, face and the back of your neck;
• use a sun-cream with adequate protection for your skin type
• drink plenty of water to replenish the fluids lost in the heat.