Ask the Docs
Summer Safety
By Heather Loguidice, ARNP
We all know that summers in South Florida are hot. Kids are out of school. The days are longer. People tend to do a lot of outside activities. Along with the fun of summer comes some typical summer health woes. I will discuss how to avoid some of these problems and still manage to have your fun in the sun.
Dehydration and Heatstroke
Dehydration occurs when your body loses more electrolyte-packed body fluids than what is being replaced. It happens most commonly in people who are out in the sun sweating a lot. If electrolytes and fluids are not replaced, your body can become so dehydrated that it loses the ability to sweat and cool down. The body temperature quickly rises and causes a heatstroke.
Symptoms of dehydration vary from mild to severe including thirst, fatigue, headaches, nausea, lightheadedness, fainting, and confusion. A heatstroke can occur when the body’s temperature exceeds over 104 degrees. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate medical treatment by calling 911.
It is best to avoid being outside during the hottest hours. Try to limit outside time to early morning and after 3:OO PM. Wear light colored, cotton clothing. Drink plenty of fluids. If you are sweating a lot drink a 50-50 mix of Gatorade and water to replace lost potassium and sodium. Drink at least one liter of this mix every hour that you are working/exercising in the sun.
Sunburn
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing at least 30 SPF sunscreen in order to prevent sunburn. Also, remember to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to going outside because it needs to be completely absorbed in order to work. Symptoms of sunburn usually start about four hours after sun exposure, worsen in 24-36 hours, and resolve in three to five days. Mild sunburn causes the skin to become red, warm, and tender. More serious burns are painful and the skin may blister. These more serious burns significantly increase your risk for skin cancer, including malignant melanoma.
If you do get sunburned, you can take over the counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain, drink plenty of fluids, and take cool baths. You can also apply lotion such as aloe vera or cocoa butter to help soothe the skin. If the skin is blistered, cover the blistered area with gauze and do not break the blisters open as this can lead to infection and slow down healing.
Mosquito Bites
Here in South Florida as the sun starts to go down, the mosquitoes come out in full force. Mosquito bites can cause serious infections like West Nile Virus and encephalitis. The best way to avoid mosquitoes is to stay inside during dusk and dawn which are peak biting times. If you have to be outside wear insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Also, wear long sleeves and pants to cover as much skin as possible.
Mosquito bites will appear as red, raised, itchy bumps on the skin. They typically resolve in less than a week. Try not to scratch them to prevent infection. Wash the area with mild soap and water. Keep the area clean. Cool compresses, antihistamines, and topical anti-itching cream such as calamine lotion can alleviate itching.
The majority of people infected with West Nile Virus will not have any symptoms. You should see your healthcare provider right away if you develop fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, or a rash after being bitten by mosquitoes.
Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear occurs after water is trapped in the external ear canal causing inflammation and infection. The best way to avoid getting it is by wearing ear plugs to prevent water from getting into the ear canal. You can also use a few drops of 50-50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and white distilled vinegar in your ear after swimming. The alcohol dries up any moisture and the vinegar creates an acidic environment to prevent fungus from growing.
Swimmer’s ear causes pain and decreased hearing. See your healthcare provider for treatment if you think you have swimmer’s ear.
Food-Borne Illnesses
Food-borne illnesses are more common in summer. There is more opportunity for food to be left out of the refrigerator such as during picnics, hiking trips, and outdoor parties. There are four basic rules to follow for preventing food-borne illnesses. First, use a thermometer when cooking so you know your food is adequately heated. Second, always wash your hands before you handle food. If you do not have access to soap and water, try using sanitizing handy wipes prior to touching food. Third, if you are going on a picnic use a cooler with enough ice to maintain food in a cool temperature. Finally, keep your utensils and dishes that you use for raw meat separate from those you use to eat.
Most common symptoms of food-borne illnesses are nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, fatigue, and body aches. Symptoms typically occur 2-6 hours after eating the contaminated food. Food-borne illnesses can be potentially harmful in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. If symptoms are severe or last more than 24 hrs, see your healthcare provider for evaluation.
I hope these tips help you to stay safe this summer. If you have any questions, please contact us at Family Medical and Wellness Center (561) 721-1953.