• Children's Center

    Housecall: Sunburn — now what?

an overhead photo of a man's sunburned lower legs and feet in flip-flops, on the beach

THIS WEEK'S TOP TOPICS
Sunburn: First aid 
Did you know that you can get sunburned on cloudy days — not just when it's sunny? And, once sunburn occurs, you can't do much to limit damage to your skin. You may be able to reduce your pain and discomfort, though, with these self-care tips. And you need to know when to seek medical care. Learn more about first aid for sunburn.

Don't bring food poisoning to your cookout
You've got charcoal for the grill and condiments for the burgers, but there are a few other preparations you need to consider before your cookout. At what temperature should you cook meat? And how do you defrost foods safely? Food poisoning is caused by eating contaminated food. Contamination can occur if food is handled or cooked incorrectly. Here's how to make sure your cookout is safe and healthy.

EXPERT ANSWERS
What is chikungunya fever, and should I be worried?
Chikungunya (chik-un-GUN-yuh) is a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes. It causes the sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain. Other signs and symptoms may include fatigue, muscle pain, headache and rash.  No vaccine exists to prevent chikungunya fever, and there's no effective antiviral treatment. Learn more from Dr. Scott Litin, a Mayo Clinic internal medicine specialist.

Which is better for weight loss cutting calories or increasing exercise?
The key to weight loss is to consume fewer calories than you burn. For most people, it's possible to lower calorie intake to a greater degree than it is to burn more calories through increased exercise. But exercise also is important because it can help you maintain your weight loss. Learn more from Dr. Donald Hensrud, a Mayo Clinic preventive medicine specialist and director of the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Video: 'Hamstring Curl With Resistance Tubing'
Delirium
Lifestyle strategies for pain management

HEALTHY RECIPES
Apple-fennel slaw
Spiced melon salad

Smoked Gouda poblano turkey burger

Tasty apple pie

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Don't let your tots burn
When you head outside for family fun, be sure to protect small children from burns. Keep sunblock handy and reapply often. Keep little ones away from grills, fire pits and campfires. Don't let children play with or near fireworks or sparklers. Check children's car seats for hot straps or buckles. These can heat up quickly in a car parked in direct sunlight.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org. 

Receive a free e-subscription to Housecall and other health newsletters.