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Summer Session
Summertime imagery generally consists of swimming pools, Bar-B-Q's, campouts, and vacations. What generally doesn't come to mind in this picturesque revelry is the very real health risks this season can conjure. So, in order to dodge the less enjoyable aspects of the season, be aware of your risks and take the appropriate measures to avoid them. Read on for further details..
One of the most common risks of the summer is dehydration. This occurs when your body loses more fluid than it takes in and it doesn't have enough water to carry out its normal functions. Common causes include intense diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or excessive sweating. When it's hot, it is extremely important to stay hydrated. Young children, older adults, and people with chronic diseases are most at risk.
Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, fatigue, thirst, decreased urine output, headache, and dizziness. Severe dehydration is extremely serious. Symptoms of severe dehydration include extreme thirst, lack of sweating, sunken eyes, low blood pressure, fever, and even delirium or unconsciousness.
If you're a healthy adult, you can usually treat mild to moderate dehydration by drinking water or sports drinks. But, if you notice severe symptoms, get immediate care, especially in regard to those in the high risk categories. In order to prevent dehydration from becoming severe, carefully monitor someone who is sick and give water or Pedialyte at the first sign of fever, diarrhea, and vomiting. Also, it is important to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise.
Another common problem is sunburn. It's best to avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10am and 4pm. Unfortunately, once burned, there is no quick fix. To ease discomfort, keep the area cool and moist. Cold compresses and moisturizers with aloe are helpful. Also, you can try an anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen to ease pain. If you notice blisters, don't break them, it slows healing. Also, if the sunburn covers a large portion of your body, or if it is accompanied by fever or severe pain, be sure to contact your doctor.
Always use sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB radiation and has an SPF of at least 30. Our FCA nursing staff suggests using Coppertone Waterbabies for infants, Shade UVA for women, and Coppertone Sport form men. Also, they suggest a chemical free sunscreen by Neutrogena for those with sensitive skin. Teens who take tetracycline for acne should be especially careful; they may be more susceptible to burns. Always apply sunscreen liberally and frequently.
Many young swimmers can attest to the next ailment brought on by summertime fun. Swimmer's Ear is an infection of the outer ear canal. It is generally brought on by water that remains in the ear after swimming creating a moist environment that aids bacterial growth. Although this is the most common catalyst, Swimmer's Ear can also be brought on by putting fingers or cotton swabs in your ears which can irritate the lining of your ear canal.
Risk factors include swimming, especially in water with elevated bacteria levels i.e. swimming in a lake versus a pool, a narrow ear canal as of that of a child, and aggressive cleaning of the canal with cotton swabs.
Symptoms are generally mild at first but may progress if not treated. The initial symptoms include itching, redness, and clear drainage. Moderate symptoms include intense itching, increasing pain, feeling of blockage in the ear, and muffled hearing. If not treated, worsening symptoms include severe pain that may radiate to your face and neck, complete blockage of your ear canal, and fever. Call your doctor at the first sign of discomfort. The symptoms will only progress if not treated. Seek immediate help if you have severe pain or fever.
Insect bites are very common this time of year. The most common symptom may be an annoying itching or mild swelling that goes away in a day or two. But, there are times when insect bites can be much more severe. Your body's reaction depends on its sensitivity to the venom or other substance injected into your skin. For mild reactions, move to a safe area, remove the stinger if applicable, apply cold compresses, apply hydrocortisone cream, and/or take an antihistamine such as Claritin, Benadryl, or Zyrtec. If you experience severe symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, or excessive swelling, seek immediate care.
Finally, exposure to poison ivy can lead to problems too. This type of skin irritation called allergic contact dermatitis. It is caused by a reaction to an oily resin found in it and other related plants such as poison oak and poison sumac. Symptoms include redness, itching, swelling, and blisters. The reaction usually develops within 12-48 hours and can last up to eight weeks. Although the symptoms are uncomfortable, they are generally not serious. For mild symptoms, our nurses suggest Benadryl, hydrocortisone cream, Bandaid anti-itch gel, or calmoseptine twice daily. However, if you notice the rash is widespread, affecting sensitive areas like your eyes, mouth, or genitals, forming blisters that ooze, causing fever greater than 100°F, or does not improve within a few weeks, you need to see your doctor.
Summertime is perfect for spending time with your family and friends. A few precautions can ensure a safe and healthy summer for all.
Sources:
FCA Nursing Staff