SWHR Live Online
Fun in the Sun: Tips for Protecting Your Health This Spring Break
March 10, 2008
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Jennifer Wider, M.D., a physician, author, and radio host who specializes in women's health issues, will answer questions about some of the unique health challenges young women face as Spring Break approaches across the nation. From alcohol to excessive sun exposure to STDs, there are many unique health threats to women as they head to the beach or venture out on vacation. Dr. Wider is author of “The Doctor’s Complete College Girls’ Health Guide,” as well as the Society’s biweekly news service, which covers all aspects of women’s health.
New York:
Are there special sun safety concerns if your spring break destination is at a high altitude?
Are there special sun safety concerns if your spring break destination is at a high altitude?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
This is a good question. While everyone needs to be careful out in the sun, extra precaution should be taken if you are visiting areas near the equator or areas that are at high altitudes.
That's because UV rays are stronger near the equator, and at high altitudes-- the air and cloud cover are thinner, allowing more damaging UV rays to get through the atmosphere.
My advice: make sure to use sunscreen with at least a 15 SPF and reapply every 2-3 hours thoughout the day.
This is a good question. While everyone needs to be careful out in the sun, extra precaution should be taken if you are visiting areas near the equator or areas that are at high altitudes.
That's because UV rays are stronger near the equator, and at high altitudes-- the air and cloud cover are thinner, allowing more damaging UV rays to get through the atmosphere.
My advice: make sure to use sunscreen with at least a 15 SPF and reapply every 2-3 hours thoughout the day.
Washington, D.C.:
What are the most common STDs among college students?
What are the most common STDs among college students?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
The most common viral STD is HPV (human papilloma virus) and the most common bacterial STD is chlamydia among college students today.
The most common viral STD is HPV (human papilloma virus) and the most common bacterial STD is chlamydia among college students today.
DC:
Why do you get freckles?
Why do you get freckles?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Freckles are pigmented cells (cells that contain color). They are usually light brown/tan in color. Being out in the sun can cause freckles or make existing ones darker. This is how: the sun damages the skin and freckles (which are abnormal collections of melanin pigment) get produced. They sit on the top layer of our skin.
Freckles are pigmented cells (cells that contain color). They are usually light brown/tan in color. Being out in the sun can cause freckles or make existing ones darker. This is how: the sun damages the skin and freckles (which are abnormal collections of melanin pigment) get produced. They sit on the top layer of our skin.
florida:
I've heard that if you drink salad oil before you start drinking alcohol that it will coat the lining of your stomach with oil and you won't get as drunk -- the alcohol will pass right through you. Is that true? If so, it sounds like a great trick for drinking contests.
I've heard that if you drink salad oil before you start drinking alcohol that it will coat the lining of your stomach with oil and you won't get as drunk -- the alcohol will pass right through you. Is that true? If so, it sounds like a great trick for drinking contests.
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
The idea behind that rumor is that fatty foods stick to the stomach lining longer and in theory would slow down the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream. There aren't many scientific studies to support this, although many people have reported that greasy foods (burger and fries) do the trick!
A much more reliable way to control how drunk you get is to pace yourself and avoid binge-drinking. Chugging salad oil would probably be less than pleasant and binge-drinking isn't safe for you or your body!
The idea behind that rumor is that fatty foods stick to the stomach lining longer and in theory would slow down the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream. There aren't many scientific studies to support this, although many people have reported that greasy foods (burger and fries) do the trick!
A much more reliable way to control how drunk you get is to pace yourself and avoid binge-drinking. Chugging salad oil would probably be less than pleasant and binge-drinking isn't safe for you or your body!
Tampa, Florida:
Okay, serious question here. I'm goth. I'm so white, I'm almost translucent. Tanning is sick. I know a band called "SPF 1000," which is really cool, but I'm sure there's no sunscreen that great. So, what's the highest you can get and at what point is there a diminishing return in the SPF level that's listed on the bottle?
Okay, serious question here. I'm goth. I'm so white, I'm almost translucent. Tanning is sick. I know a band called "SPF 1000," which is really cool, but I'm sure there's no sunscreen that great. So, what's the highest you can get and at what point is there a diminishing return in the SPF level that's listed on the bottle?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
This is a very good question and it has come up many, many times before. Many dermatologists will tell you that the SPF number is less important than how much you apply and how often you apply it. Having said that, anything over 15 is fine and using an ample amount (at least a shot glass full) every 2-3 hours is recommended.
This is a very good question and it has come up many, many times before. Many dermatologists will tell you that the SPF number is less important than how much you apply and how often you apply it. Having said that, anything over 15 is fine and using an ample amount (at least a shot glass full) every 2-3 hours is recommended.
Dallas, Texas:
I've heard you're not supposed to put sunscreen on newborn babies? Is this true and if so, how do you protect them in the sun.
I've heard you're not supposed to put sunscreen on newborn babies? Is this true and if so, how do you protect them in the sun.
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Yes. Most pediatricians generally recommend against sunscreen for newborns under six months.
It's important to keep in mind that infants can burn more easily, so try to keep them out of direct sun because their skin is too thin and more delicate to safely absorb the sunlight.
The bottom line is that parents should make efforts to minimize their newborns sun exposure and cover them as much as possible when going outside.
Here are a few sun safety tips for newly born babies:
· Avoid having baby outdoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
· Purchase an adjustable canopy for carriages or strollers.
· Sunlight filtered through car windows can be harmful so install a window shade in the car to provide shade for baby while driving.
Yes. Most pediatricians generally recommend against sunscreen for newborns under six months.
It's important to keep in mind that infants can burn more easily, so try to keep them out of direct sun because their skin is too thin and more delicate to safely absorb the sunlight.
The bottom line is that parents should make efforts to minimize their newborns sun exposure and cover them as much as possible when going outside.
Here are a few sun safety tips for newly born babies:
· Avoid having baby outdoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
· Purchase an adjustable canopy for carriages or strollers.
· Sunlight filtered through car windows can be harmful so install a window shade in the car to provide shade for baby while driving.
fairfax, va:
For skin cancer and wrinkles, does it matter if you tan outside in the sun or inside from a tanning bed?
For skin cancer and wrinkles, does it matter if you tan outside in the sun or inside from a tanning bed?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
When it comes to wrinkles and skin cancer, excessive exposure can be harmful from both sources. But indoor tanning mimics natural sunlight, and the tanning salon is more efficient and you get the exposure faster. Excessive tanning in a salon has been linked to both wrinkles and an increased risk in all types of skin cancer.
When it comes to wrinkles and skin cancer, excessive exposure can be harmful from both sources. But indoor tanning mimics natural sunlight, and the tanning salon is more efficient and you get the exposure faster. Excessive tanning in a salon has been linked to both wrinkles and an increased risk in all types of skin cancer.
SAN DIEGO:
Does smoking make you more vulnerable to sun damage?
Does smoking make you more vulnerable to sun damage?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
There is some convincing evidence that smoking is a risk factor in developing skin cancer, most specifically squamous cell carcinoma.
There is some convincing evidence that smoking is a risk factor in developing skin cancer, most specifically squamous cell carcinoma.
texas:
Why are women more vulnerable than men to contracting STDs?
Why are women more vulnerable than men to contracting STDs?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
STDs disproportionately impact women for several reasons. One is anatomical, the transmission of disease is more efficient from man to woman than vice-versa, based on surface area and the fact that fluid is being expelled from man to woman during intercourse. Another reason is that STDs are often asymptomatic in women, making them difficult to diagnose and treat.
STDs disproportionately impact women for several reasons. One is anatomical, the transmission of disease is more efficient from man to woman than vice-versa, based on surface area and the fact that fluid is being expelled from man to woman during intercourse. Another reason is that STDs are often asymptomatic in women, making them difficult to diagnose and treat.
Moderator:
STDs can have wide ranging health consequences, so if you are sexually active, it is important to practice safe sex. You should also seek regular health screenings.
If you have an STD and need counseling or if you are concerned about your sexual health, but are afraid to talk to your doctor or local health clinic workers, consider calling these hotlines:
CDC National STD Hotline -- 1.800.227.8922 (24/7)
National Herpes Hotline -- 919.361.8488 (9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (EST), Monday-Friday)
National HPV and Cervical Cancer Prevention Hotline -- 919.361.4848 (2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (EST), Monday-Friday)
STDs can have wide ranging health consequences, so if you are sexually active, it is important to practice safe sex. You should also seek regular health screenings.
If you have an STD and need counseling or if you are concerned about your sexual health, but are afraid to talk to your doctor or local health clinic workers, consider calling these hotlines:
CDC National STD Hotline -- 1.800.227.8922 (24/7)
National Herpes Hotline -- 919.361.8488 (9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (EST), Monday-Friday)
National HPV and Cervical Cancer Prevention Hotline -- 919.361.4848 (2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. (EST), Monday-Friday)
Chicago, IL:
Other than making stupid judgement errors, is there anything about alcohol that makes your body more susceptible to contracting a sexually transmitted disease?
Other than making stupid judgement errors, is there anything about alcohol that makes your body more susceptible to contracting a sexually transmitted disease?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Not from a biological standpoint, but in addition to poor judgment, alcohol can lower a person's inhibitions, placing him/her at risk for engaging in unprotected sex.
Not from a biological standpoint, but in addition to poor judgment, alcohol can lower a person's inhibitions, placing him/her at risk for engaging in unprotected sex.
annonymous:
I've read that smoking makes you more likely to get cervical cancer. How is that?
I've read that smoking makes you more likely to get cervical cancer. How is that?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
The underlying mechanism that connects cigarettes to cervical cancer is not known. However, many studies show that tobacco use raises the risk of precancerous changes in the cervix and cervical cancer, itself. Yet another good reason to quit!
The underlying mechanism that connects cigarettes to cervical cancer is not known. However, many studies show that tobacco use raises the risk of precancerous changes in the cervix and cervical cancer, itself. Yet another good reason to quit!
Providence, RI:
A new study has found that drinking at a fraternity, sorority or campus residence increases the likelihood of aggression, and that attending parties can especially increase aggression for women. Can you comment on this? The study is in the March issue of "Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research."
A new study has found that drinking at a fraternity, sorority or campus residence increases the likelihood of aggression, and that attending parties can especially increase aggression for women. Can you comment on this? The study is in the March issue of "Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research."
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
It has long been established that consuming alcohol can lower a person's inhibitions and promote poor decision making. But the results of this study had some additional important messages. One was that the risk of alcohol-related violence is usually linked to a combination of intoxication and certain social situations (group settings like fraternities and sororities). When people are under the influence of alcohol, they are less able to resolve conflicts in peaceful manner, according to the study. According to the study, programs set up to reduce alcohol-related aggression should focus on: reducing conflict and stress in drinking situations and actually moderating the amount people drink. In addition, programs that focus on preventing partner violence and other relationship-related conflicts may be highly effective in controlling aggression.
It has long been established that consuming alcohol can lower a person's inhibitions and promote poor decision making. But the results of this study had some additional important messages. One was that the risk of alcohol-related violence is usually linked to a combination of intoxication and certain social situations (group settings like fraternities and sororities). When people are under the influence of alcohol, they are less able to resolve conflicts in peaceful manner, according to the study. According to the study, programs set up to reduce alcohol-related aggression should focus on: reducing conflict and stress in drinking situations and actually moderating the amount people drink. In addition, programs that focus on preventing partner violence and other relationship-related conflicts may be highly effective in controlling aggression.
Moderator:
Another interesting finding of this study was that women became more aggressive towards their friends and acquaintances. Men, on the other hand, became more aggressive toward strangers. The lesson: heavy drinking is probably not a good tool for women’s relationship building. You and your friends may say and do things to each other that you’ll long regret. Yet another lesson: while you should be careful around anyone who is drinking heavily, you should be really careful around strange men you don’t know.
Another interesting finding of this study was that women became more aggressive towards their friends and acquaintances. Men, on the other hand, became more aggressive toward strangers. The lesson: heavy drinking is probably not a good tool for women’s relationship building. You and your friends may say and do things to each other that you’ll long regret. Yet another lesson: while you should be careful around anyone who is drinking heavily, you should be really careful around strange men you don’t know.
Florida:
I just read that five or more sunburns doubles your risk of getting skin cancer. If you get burned, is there anything you can immediately do -- any types of lotions or skin therapy -- that can reduce the damage of the sunburn you just received?
I just read that five or more sunburns doubles your risk of getting skin cancer. If you get burned, is there anything you can immediately do -- any types of lotions or skin therapy -- that can reduce the damage of the sunburn you just received?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
It depends on who you ask. Some dermatologists recommend special products including Tretinoin creams and gels. Other doctors feel that once the damage is done, there's not much you can do. Of course, pain relief: cool compresses and aloe vera products, can help ease discomfort.
It depends on who you ask. Some dermatologists recommend special products including Tretinoin creams and gels. Other doctors feel that once the damage is done, there's not much you can do. Of course, pain relief: cool compresses and aloe vera products, can help ease discomfort.
kentucky:
With college girls murdered last week at North Carolina and Auburn, it doesn't seem like any place is safe? Is the rate of crime against women on college campuses going up or are these just two closely timed and unfortunate high profile coincidences?
With college girls murdered last week at North Carolina and Auburn, it doesn't seem like any place is safe? Is the rate of crime against women on college campuses going up or are these just two closely timed and unfortunate high profile coincidences?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
It's hard to get a handle on the exact numbers because many college women do not report violent acts, mainly sexual assault or date rape, to authorities, but the latest murder cases make many wonder if the number of female victims is indeed going up. Women in college are often more vulnerable to violent acts than men in college, especially if alcohol is involved. While these latest two incidences didn't seem to involve alcohol, extra precautions need to be taken to safeguard female students including: buddy systems, on-campus chaperones, security patrols, blue phones and locked (outside) dorm doors. Women should also be wary of their surroundings (city and suburbs) and understand their options in terms of safe transportation.
It's hard to get a handle on the exact numbers because many college women do not report violent acts, mainly sexual assault or date rape, to authorities, but the latest murder cases make many wonder if the number of female victims is indeed going up. Women in college are often more vulnerable to violent acts than men in college, especially if alcohol is involved. While these latest two incidences didn't seem to involve alcohol, extra precautions need to be taken to safeguard female students including: buddy systems, on-campus chaperones, security patrols, blue phones and locked (outside) dorm doors. Women should also be wary of their surroundings (city and suburbs) and understand their options in terms of safe transportation.
Boston:
There was a 2005 nationwide survey of students that go to popular spring break beach destinations that said students who travel to such places average 18 drinks per day for boys and 10 for girls. That can't be right. Surely those kids are grossly overestimating their alcohol consumption for bragging purposes. Can you comment on these purported consumption levels?
There was a 2005 nationwide survey of students that go to popular spring break beach destinations that said students who travel to such places average 18 drinks per day for boys and 10 for girls. That can't be right. Surely those kids are grossly overestimating their alcohol consumption for bragging purposes. Can you comment on these purported consumption levels?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
The studies I have read report that binge-drinking is way up on college campuses and on spring break. Binge-drinking is defined as having 4-5 drinks in a row for the sole purpose of getting drunk. Many of the students on spring break drink around the clock, so these numbers, however startling, may be accurate!
The studies I have read report that binge-drinking is way up on college campuses and on spring break. Binge-drinking is defined as having 4-5 drinks in a row for the sole purpose of getting drunk. Many of the students on spring break drink around the clock, so these numbers, however startling, may be accurate!
Denver:
Can you tell me if there's evidence that America's high drinking age (21) leads to more problems for people 18-20, leading them to drink in dangerous situations and in unsafe manners? The police chief in Boulder near her says raising the legal drinking age limit to 21 was not a wise decision. He says the level of drinking between the ages of 18 and 21 has actually increased since the 1980s, when the states raised the age. He says the higher drinking age has helped create an underground culture that encourages binge drinking without any oversight or supervision. A lot of his comments on this subject have been in response to the alcohol poisoning death of a 19 year old girl there.
Can you tell me if there's evidence that America's high drinking age (21) leads to more problems for people 18-20, leading them to drink in dangerous situations and in unsafe manners? The police chief in Boulder near her says raising the legal drinking age limit to 21 was not a wise decision. He says the level of drinking between the ages of 18 and 21 has actually increased since the 1980s, when the states raised the age. He says the higher drinking age has helped create an underground culture that encourages binge drinking without any oversight or supervision. A lot of his comments on this subject have been in response to the alcohol poisoning death of a 19 year old girl there.
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
This is one of those hot-button topics. But many, many people agree with the police chief in Boulder...that prohibiting alcohol to people 18-20, actually leads to more irresponsible drinking. Often proponents of lowering the drinking age will cite that 18 and older can be legally drafted, but cannot drink. Many cultures with lower drinking ages, do not see the number of accidents, violent acts and sexual aggression associated with alcohol, the way we do in the U.S.
This is one of those hot-button topics. But many, many people agree with the police chief in Boulder...that prohibiting alcohol to people 18-20, actually leads to more irresponsible drinking. Often proponents of lowering the drinking age will cite that 18 and older can be legally drafted, but cannot drink. Many cultures with lower drinking ages, do not see the number of accidents, violent acts and sexual aggression associated with alcohol, the way we do in the U.S.
Detroit:
Can I "catch something" by taking a sip of someone's drink?
Can I "catch something" by taking a sip of someone's drink?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Yes! All sorts of viruses can be transmitted through saliva, as can bacterial infections. It is best never to share drinks or other food products (or toothbrushes and razors!).
Yes! All sorts of viruses can be transmitted through saliva, as can bacterial infections. It is best never to share drinks or other food products (or toothbrushes and razors!).
Ft. Lauderdale:
What's the difference between being drunk and having alcohol poisoning? If you blackout, does that mean you have alcohol poisoning?
What's the difference between being drunk and having alcohol poisoning? If you blackout, does that mean you have alcohol poisoning?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
This is a serious and important question. All too often, college students consume more alcohol than their bodies can process. The result is alcohol poisoning. Here are some common signs and symptoms:
• Confusion, stupor
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow and erratic breathing
• Blue or pale skin
• Low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Unconsciousness ("passing out")
Remember, a person may not suffer from all of these symptoms to have alcohol poisoning. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate assistance.
This is a serious and important question. All too often, college students consume more alcohol than their bodies can process. The result is alcohol poisoning. Here are some common signs and symptoms:
• Confusion, stupor
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Slow and erratic breathing
• Blue or pale skin
• Low body temperature (hypothermia)
• Unconsciousness ("passing out")
Remember, a person may not suffer from all of these symptoms to have alcohol poisoning. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate assistance.
Idaho:
Do you have some general tips for staying safe during spring break?
Do you have some general tips for staying safe during spring break?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Here are a few tips to stay safe and healthy during spring break. Remember, most people go off and have a great time, but these tips can help safeguard your health.
1) Know your alcohol limit. Be able to cut yourself off if you've consumed too much alcohol.
2) Buddy system: this is probably the most important tip I can offer, especially for women. Stick together and be able to account for each other.
3) Never go off with someone you don't know or go back to someone's room either!
4) Do not enter wet T-shirt contests. I can't tell you how many women I interviewed for my book "The Doctor's Complete College Girls Health Guide," that regretted their decision to enter these contests. The digital pics came back to haunt them in more than one way.
5) Don't drink out of a punch bowl (could be drugged) and never leave your drink unattended...take it to the bathroom, if necessary!
Here are a few tips to stay safe and healthy during spring break. Remember, most people go off and have a great time, but these tips can help safeguard your health.
1) Know your alcohol limit. Be able to cut yourself off if you've consumed too much alcohol.
2) Buddy system: this is probably the most important tip I can offer, especially for women. Stick together and be able to account for each other.
3) Never go off with someone you don't know or go back to someone's room either!
4) Do not enter wet T-shirt contests. I can't tell you how many women I interviewed for my book "The Doctor's Complete College Girls Health Guide," that regretted their decision to enter these contests. The digital pics came back to haunt them in more than one way.
5) Don't drink out of a punch bowl (could be drugged) and never leave your drink unattended...take it to the bathroom, if necessary!
Dallas:
Everyone in Texas is tan! If I want to get that tan color without laying out in the sun, what are some safe alternatives and do any of them provide protection against the sun's rays?
Everyone in Texas is tan! If I want to get that tan color without laying out in the sun, what are some safe alternatives and do any of them provide protection against the sun's rays?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Most self-tanning creams are safe. They are basically dyes and have been used in food for years. But remember, just because your skin looks tan, it is not protected from the sun, however. Make sure to apply sunblock in addition to the self-tanner!
Most self-tanning creams are safe. They are basically dyes and have been used in food for years. But remember, just because your skin looks tan, it is not protected from the sun, however. Make sure to apply sunblock in addition to the self-tanner!
New York City:
I saw on an episode of Veronica Mars with drink coasters that turn a certain color if you put some of the drink on the coaster and it has a date rape drug in it. Are there really coasters like that that you can get?
I saw on an episode of Veronica Mars with drink coasters that turn a certain color if you put some of the drink on the coaster and it has a date rape drug in it. Are there really coasters like that that you can get?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
I've never heard of this. It is a great idea though. It might be hard to manufacture because there are several date rape drugs out there. Here's a few tips to keep drugs out of your drinks:
• Don't drink from a punch bowl.
• Don't take a drink from someone you don't know.
• Keep your drink with you at all times.
• Know the signs of being drugged. (There is a small window of time--if you feel very, very drunk after one-two drinks, dizzy, light-headed or sleepy, find someone safe right away.)
I've never heard of this. It is a great idea though. It might be hard to manufacture because there are several date rape drugs out there. Here's a few tips to keep drugs out of your drinks:
• Don't drink from a punch bowl.
• Don't take a drink from someone you don't know.
• Keep your drink with you at all times.
• Know the signs of being drugged. (There is a small window of time--if you feel very, very drunk after one-two drinks, dizzy, light-headed or sleepy, find someone safe right away.)
Moderator:
I did some checking and this is in fact true: there are paper drink coasters made that can detect date rate drugs from drink samples. There are also drink stirrers that perform the same test -- essentially they change color if certain drugs are detected in the liquid.
I would suggest a Web search to find companies that make these products. Here is one example I found: www.drinksafetech.com
I did some checking and this is in fact true: there are paper drink coasters made that can detect date rate drugs from drink samples. There are also drink stirrers that perform the same test -- essentially they change color if certain drugs are detected in the liquid.
I would suggest a Web search to find companies that make these products. Here is one example I found: www.drinksafetech.com
a bar...:
more and more studies say moderate alcohol use can lower your risk for heart disease. so, shouldn't people in their teens and twenties drink moderate amounts of alcohol as a long-term preventive of heart disease?
more and more studies say moderate alcohol use can lower your risk for heart disease. so, shouldn't people in their teens and twenties drink moderate amounts of alcohol as a long-term preventive of heart disease?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
No. First of all, it isn't legal. Second of all, studies show that teens who engage in drinking, even moderate amounts, are more likely to engage in risky behaviors including: drug use and DWI. Teens who drink are also at risk for emotional problems including depression and and low self-esteem issues. So, a healthy diet and regular exercise are probably a better way to go to maintain heart health for the future!
No. First of all, it isn't legal. Second of all, studies show that teens who engage in drinking, even moderate amounts, are more likely to engage in risky behaviors including: drug use and DWI. Teens who drink are also at risk for emotional problems including depression and and low self-esteem issues. So, a healthy diet and regular exercise are probably a better way to go to maintain heart health for the future!
Anonymous:
In response to the "Ft. Lauderdale" question above: Are you saying that we should call the ambulance everytime a friend drinks too much, throws up and passes out?
In response to the "Ft. Lauderdale" question above: Are you saying that we should call the ambulance everytime a friend drinks too much, throws up and passes out?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
You should apply common sense. For a person who vomits once, it probably isn't necessary. But if a person vomits repeatedly, seems to be having difficulty breathing, and passes out, this would be a good time to get medical assistance.
You should apply common sense. For a person who vomits once, it probably isn't necessary. But if a person vomits repeatedly, seems to be having difficulty breathing, and passes out, this would be a good time to get medical assistance.
Boston:
What can you do about really bad sunburns? Last time I went to Daytona Beach my girlfriend's feet got burnt so badly that they swelled up. Her mother told us to soak her feet in milk. Do you recommend that for our faces, too?
What can you do about really bad sunburns? Last time I went to Daytona Beach my girlfriend's feet got burnt so badly that they swelled up. Her mother told us to soak her feet in milk. Do you recommend that for our faces, too?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
This is one of those home remedies that is seemingly harmless. Cold milk or cold compresses (soaked in water), can relieve the pain associated with sunburns.
This is one of those home remedies that is seemingly harmless. Cold milk or cold compresses (soaked in water), can relieve the pain associated with sunburns.
I'll be in Jamacia in 10 days!:
If I get sick in Jamacia during spring break and I need to go to the hospital, what information will I need to show them?
If I get sick in Jamacia during spring break and I need to go to the hospital, what information will I need to show them?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Great question. Always carry your passport with you at all times. Any medical history is important too. If you are taking prescription drugs, it's important to have a copy of the written prescription with you. And no matter where you go, don't forget to take someone with you that can communicate with the hospital staff, if you don't speak the native language.
Great question. Always carry your passport with you at all times. Any medical history is important too. If you are taking prescription drugs, it's important to have a copy of the written prescription with you. And no matter where you go, don't forget to take someone with you that can communicate with the hospital staff, if you don't speak the native language.
Baltimore, Md.:
I am planning on going a little wild this spring break... If you go to your OB/GYN once a year and get tested for STDs, is that frequent enough testing if you are sexually active and have several partners?
I am planning on going a little wild this spring break... If you go to your OB/GYN once a year and get tested for STDs, is that frequent enough testing if you are sexually active and have several partners?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Not to sound like your parents, but you should never, ever engage in unprotected sex. It's fine to get tested for STDs, but you can contract many diseases that will never go away, even with treatment. So if going "a little wild," means not wearing protection, you should reconsider. Remember, multiple partners is a risk factor for all sorts of diseases.
Not to sound like your parents, but you should never, ever engage in unprotected sex. It's fine to get tested for STDs, but you can contract many diseases that will never go away, even with treatment. So if going "a little wild," means not wearing protection, you should reconsider. Remember, multiple partners is a risk factor for all sorts of diseases.
St. Louis:
Are bikini waxes safe?
Are bikini waxes safe?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
For the most part, they are safe. However, you should always insist that a new stick of wax is used and make sure you watch them unpeel it from the package. You should also have it done in a reputable establishment; it's worth it to pay more for someone experienced.
For the most part, they are safe. However, you should always insist that a new stick of wax is used and make sure you watch them unpeel it from the package. You should also have it done in a reputable establishment; it's worth it to pay more for someone experienced.
NYC:
Do you know of any products that will fade freckles?
Do you know of any products that will fade freckles?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Not from experience. There are pills, laser procedures, and bleaching procedures available, but you should definitely check with your doctor about safety and effectiveness.
Not from experience. There are pills, laser procedures, and bleaching procedures available, but you should definitely check with your doctor about safety and effectiveness.
college:
Can you suggest some resources to help discourage young girls from drinking?
Can you suggest some resources to help discourage young girls from drinking?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
This is always a challenge. I have found that the best way to approach this subject is not necessarily to fully discouraging it, because it happens anyway, but to helping young women know their limit and make responsible decisions.
This is always a challenge. I have found that the best way to approach this subject is not necessarily to fully discouraging it, because it happens anyway, but to helping young women know their limit and make responsible decisions.
Moderator:
I suggest you check out: "Girl Talk: Choices and Consequences of Underage Drinking," a program by The Century Council. Girl Talk educates teenage girls about the dangers of underage drinking and the specific risks facing teenage girls, and encourages girls to live healthy and active lifestyles by providing them with the resources to do so.
Visit Girl Talk online: www.grltlk.org
I suggest you check out: "Girl Talk: Choices and Consequences of Underage Drinking," a program by The Century Council. Girl Talk educates teenage girls about the dangers of underage drinking and the specific risks facing teenage girls, and encourages girls to live healthy and active lifestyles by providing them with the resources to do so.
Visit Girl Talk online: www.grltlk.org
Washington, DC:
I've read that drinking 8 oz. of water for every serving of alcohol can help prevent a hangover, but I also know that women process alcohol differently than men. Is this statistic true for women? What other steps can women take to drink safely and avoid hangovers?
I've read that drinking 8 oz. of water for every serving of alcohol can help prevent a hangover, but I also know that women process alcohol differently than men. Is this statistic true for women? What other steps can women take to drink safely and avoid hangovers?
Jennifer Wider, M.D.:
Here are few tips from the Department of Health and Human Services:
Drink slowly and on a full stomach. Keep in mind that if you are a small person, the effects of alcohol consumption are greater on you than on a larger person.
Drink only in moderation. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends that women have no more than 1 drink per day and men no more than 2 drinks per day. One drink is defined as a 12-ounce bottle of beer, a 4-ounce glass of wine, or a 1 1/2-ounce shot of liquor.
Drink a glass of water in between drinks containing alcohol. This will help you drink less alcohol, and will also decrease the dehydration associated with drinking alcohol.
Here are few tips from the Department of Health and Human Services:
Drink slowly and on a full stomach. Keep in mind that if you are a small person, the effects of alcohol consumption are greater on you than on a larger person.
Drink only in moderation. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends that women have no more than 1 drink per day and men no more than 2 drinks per day. One drink is defined as a 12-ounce bottle of beer, a 4-ounce glass of wine, or a 1 1/2-ounce shot of liquor.
Drink a glass of water in between drinks containing alcohol. This will help you drink less alcohol, and will also decrease the dehydration associated with drinking alcohol.
Moderator:
This concludes our live discussion today. Thank you to everyone for participating, especially Dr. Wider for taking time out of her busy schedule to answer questions. This has been a very interesting and informative dialogue that has good information not just for spring break, but for all year long.
A full archive of today's discussion will be available here on the Society’s Web site for future viewing. To learn about upcoming chats and other women’s health information, sign up for our e-newsletter. Also, be sure to check out our news service, which is authored by Dr. Wider, as well as her own Web site: www.drwider.com.
Thank you again for joining us.
This concludes our live discussion today. Thank you to everyone for participating, especially Dr. Wider for taking time out of her busy schedule to answer questions. This has been a very interesting and informative dialogue that has good information not just for spring break, but for all year long.
A full archive of today's discussion will be available here on the Society’s Web site for future viewing. To learn about upcoming chats and other women’s health information, sign up for our e-newsletter. Also, be sure to check out our news service, which is authored by Dr. Wider, as well as her own Web site: www.drwider.com.
Thank you again for joining us.
Please Note: Guests and hosts retain editorial control over discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. Society for Women’s Health Research is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.
