Sailing and boating around Hong Kong’s coastlines and islands is an exhilarating experience – a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. However, as with any outdoor activity, a day on the open water comes with its own set of health risks. We ask the team at Matilda about sunburn treatment, dehydration symptoms and how you can take adequate precautions for ear infections, allergies and more!
#1 Heat stroke and sunburn treatment
Spending hours on the deck of a boat and in the water means a lot of exposure to the sun (on a boat, the sun’s rays are intensified by reflection). Unsurprisingly, sunburn is a relatively common response of the skin to too much UV radiation and requires the right products for effective sunburn treatment. Heat stroke is a potentially life-threatening condition.
Prevention: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply it every two hours, seek shade, wear protective clothing and stay hydrated.
Treatment: Aloe vera works well for sunburn treatment, and you should keep up the intake of cool fluids, too. If there are symptoms of heat stroke (body temperature of 40°C or above, confusion, hot and dry skin, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing), cool the person with water or ice packs and seek medical help immediately.
#2 Dehydration symptoms
Exposure to sun and salty sea air, combined with the physical activity that comes with many yachting adventures, can result in dehydration symptoms from a dry mouth or fatigue, to dizziness and dark urine.
Prevention: Drink water regularly, limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine, and carry a refillable water bottle.
Treatment: To prevent these dehydration symptoms, rest and drink electrolyte-rich fluids. Make sure to seek medical help for severe cases.
#3 Signs of ear infection
Prolonged water exposure can easily lead to “swimmer’s ear” or other types of ear infections.
Prevention: Avoid submerging your head underwater for too long, wear earplugs and dry the ears thoroughly.
Treatment: Consult a healthcare provider if you or a family member shows symptoms such as ear pain, itching or drainage.
#4 Allergic reactions while sailing and boating
Whether you’re swimming with it or eating it as part of a seafood platter on an organised boat trip, certain types of marine life can pose a threat, from inflicting a sting to the skin, to causing an allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock after ingestion.
Prevention: Carry antihistamines and an epinephrine auto injector, avoid known allergens, clean food areas and wear protective clothing.
Preparedness: Identify and avoid allergens, and be cautious around marine life.
#5 Muscle strains and overuse injuries
As relaxing as a boat trip can be, it can also involve hard work – handling sails, lifting heavy equipment and dealing with potentially bumpy seas, all of which can lead to injury.
Prevention: Employ proper lifting techniques, stretch regularly, and try to maintain strong core muscles.
Treatment: Rest, apply ice and consult a healthcare professional for persistent issues.
#6 Respiratory issues
Yachts spend their life on water, and that means there’s a risk of mould, mildew and pollutants, exacerbated by Hong Kong’s hot and humid months.
Prevention: Before you go on a sailing and boating adventure ensure proper ventilation, avoid idling the engine, clean the boat’s air filters and address mould and mildew as it arises.
Preparedness: Keep medications accessible and inform fellow passengers of conditions. Ascertain if there are any asthma/allergy sufferers on board.
If you’ve prepared adequately for your sailing and boating expedition and you stay vigilant while you’re out at sea, you’re in for a fun and safe yachting adventure!
Matilda International Hospital | 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak
Matilda Medical Centre | Suite 502, Prosperity Tower, 39 Queen’s Road Central
matilda.org
This article first appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue!
Interested in keeping a healthy lifestyle? Find more articles with tips in our Health & Fitness section.
