How to Identify and Treat Common Summertime Injuries

Summer is a season of fun, sunshine, and outdoor adventures. But with all the good times, there can be a few bumps and bruises along the way. Our emergency medical team at Quality Care ER has seen everything from sunburns to insect bites and dehydration. Therefore, we have compiled a list of tips to help you identify, treat, and know when to seek professional care for common summertime injuries.

Summer Safety Guidelines

To kick off, staying safe in summer begins with simple preventative measures. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. Sweating due to heat can quickly lead to dehydration, which can have serious health consequences.

Wearing protective gear such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses is essential to shield your skin and eyes from the harsh sun rays. When engaging in outdoor activities like cycling or skateboarding, ensure to wear the appropriate safety gear to avoid any potential injuries.

Common Summer Injuries and Their Treatments

Despite our best efforts, accidents do happen. Let's delve into some common summer injuries and how to handle them:

Sunburn

One of the most common summertime injuries is sunburn. It can range from mild redness to severe blistering. To prevent sunburn, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you do get sunburned, apply aloe vera or a moisturizer to soothe the skin. Stay hydrated and avoid further sun exposure until your skin heals. If the sunburn is severe or accompanied by fever, chills, or nausea, seek immediate professional care.

Dehydration

Dehydration happens when your body loses more fluids than it takes in. It's prevalent during summer due to high temperatures and increased physical activity. Symptoms include thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion. Drink plenty of water and eat foods with high water content to stay hydrated. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid pulse, dizziness, and nausea. If you suspect heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place, drink water, and rest. If symptoms persist, seek immediate medical help.

Signs of heat stroke include high body temperature, altered mental state, nausea, and rapid breathing. If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 immediately. While waiting for help, move the person to a cooler place and try to lower their body temperature with cool (not cold) water.

Insect Bites and Stings

Summertime means more bugs are out and about, increasing the chances of insect bites and stings. Most bug bites and stings cause minor irritation but can be serious if you're allergic. Clean the area with soap and water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and consider over-the-counter remedies for itching. If you experience difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat, call 911 or head to Quality Care ER immediately.

Cuts and Scrapes

Outdoor activities can lead to accidents, resulting in cuts and scrapes. Clean the wound with warm water and soap, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a clean bandage. If the wound is deep, won't stop bleeding, or was caused by a rusty object, seek professional care to prevent infection and tetanus.

Poison Ivy

Contact with poison ivy can cause an itchy, blistering rash. Over-the-counter creams and antihistamines can help manage the symptoms. However, if the rash covers a large area or is on your face or genitals, seek medical help.

When to Seek Medical Care

Knowing when to seek professional medical care for these injuries is crucial. If symptoms persist, worsen, or you have severe reactions, it's time to visit an ER.

At Quality Care ER, we provide top-notch emergency services around the clock. We have skilled professionals equipped to handle a wide range of health emergencies. Visit our website to learn more about how we can assist you in times of need.