As families begin to spend more time together outside, it’s important to be aware of the possible health conditions they may face. General summer safety is important as the days get longer and hotter. Be sure to drink plenty of water every day and wear sunscreen if spending time outside. Visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington for treatment of any ailment that requires urgent treatment. For any life-threatening conditions, please visit your local emergency room.
Insect Bites & Stings
Between bees, wasps, ticks, ants, and spiders, your chance of getting bit or stung by a bug is high in the summer. It’s imperative to be mindful of these insects and any potential allergic reaction you or a loved one might have.
Tick bites are also prevalent in the summer months. Ticks live in wooded areas and can stick to your clothing to bite you later. Some ticks may also carry the bacteria for Lyme disease, which can be debilitating and cause severe symptoms. Always check yourself for ticks before coming indoors and promptly remove any if you find one.
Heat Exhaustion
When the temperature outside begins to climb, and the humidity rises, it can be dangerous to stay outside for extended amounts of time. Heat exhaustion can become very dangerous very quickly if you are not careful. This occurs when your body’s internal temperature reaches over 100 degrees.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include a weak but rapid pulse, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, and flushed skin. These symptoms can be reversed by going indoors where it is cool or air-conditioned, staying hydrated throughout the day, and wearing loose-fitting and cool clothing.
If symptoms continue to get worse, heatstroke may occur. This is a serious medical condition that requires attention from a medical professional. If you notice symptoms becoming worse or a person faints, call 911 or visit the emergency room immediately.
Food Poisoning
Foodborne illnesses are common throughout the summer, though you may not think of it. Bacteria that grow on food thrive in warm conditions. If food is left out after cooking and not refrigerated within two hours, bacteria will develop. If that food is later eaten, foodborne illnesses may occur.
Additionally, people are more likely to cook outside when it’s warm out. Picnics, barbecues, and other cookouts make it challenging to keep food cool and clean utensils. It’s important to keep all ready-to-eat food separated from raw foods and never use the same utensils on both types of food.
Sunburn
Sunburn is another widespread ailment for people throughout the summer. Throughout the day, the UV rays can burn your skin if not adequately protected. It’s important to wear SPF every day, even if it is cloudy out. Wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and other forms of protective clothing can help prevent sunburns.
In most cases, sunburns can be treated at home with no serious complications. In more severe cases, however, medical attention may be helpful. If you experience a severe sunburn this summer, visit AFC Urgent Care for treatment.
