Common Summertime Injuries and Illnesses

Preventing Common Summer Illnesses and Injuries

As the days get longer and temperatures get hotter, there is an increase in outdoor activities leaving people more prone to sustaining certain types of injuries. Here's what you should know to keep you and your family safe all summer long.

Heat-Related Illness

With temperatures hitting their peak during the summer months, the risk for developing heat-related illness is increased significantly. Heat-related illnesses happen when the body is exposed to high temperatures or extended periods of direct sunlight. When this happens, your body’s natural cooling mechanisms may not be enough to adequately regulate your body temperature.

Some of the most common heat-related illnesses include:

• Heat cramps
• Heat exhaustion
• Heatstroke

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may be experiencing a heat stroke and should seek emergency medical attention:

• High body temperature
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Racing heart rate
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Sunburns

Sunburns happen when your skin experiences prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, resulting in damage to the outermost layers. For people with less melanin, extended periods of sun exposure can result in re, swollen, and painful symptoms. You may also experience peeling skin.

Sports Injuries

With nicer weather and longer days during summer, there is an increase in outdoor activities like playing sports, biking, and hiking. Unfortunately, this also means there is an increase in people experiencing sports injuries.

Some of the most common sports injuries that happen during the summer include:

• Sprains
• Strains
• Overuse injuries
• Concussions
• Broken bones
• Dislocations

If you experience a broken bone or a dislocated joint, seek immediate medical attention as these are medical emergencies and can result in health complications if left untreated.

Primary and Specialty Care in Henry County

At Henry County Hospital, we’ve been providing compassionate healthcare since 1919. When it comes to primary and specialty care, each patient can expect individualized care that meets their needs. From education to emotional support, we focus on your individual health and wellness.