Summertime Ailments to Keep on Your Radar
As we spend more time outdoors and getting physically active, it's no surprise that there are increased health risks during the summer months.
Sunburn
While many of us are familiar with the painful reality of getting a sunburn, it’s rarely understood. Sunburns are actually an inflammatory response to excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
For certain people, unprotected sun exposure results in the following symptoms:
- Redness
- Swelling and inflammation
- Blistering
- Peeling skin
- Painful to the touch
While this can be relatively harmless, continued unprotected exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to the development of skin cancer.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a condition that is brought on when the body is no longer able to regulate its internal temperature due to dehydration. If left untreated and undressed, it can lead to heatstroke.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Sweating heavily
- Cold and clammy skin
- Fast but weak pulse
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Passing out
Food Poisoning
While food poisoning can happen at any time of year, there tends to be an influx in food poisoning during the summer months due to higher temperatures that can cause food to spoil.
Symptoms of food poisoning include:
- Stomach cramping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Upset stomach
Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, isa form of middle ear infection that is common amongst those who spend a lot of time swimming or in water. This is because excessive amounts of moisture can cause the skin of the ear canal to become irritated or broken down, allowing bacteria and fungi to enter the middle ear.
Signs and symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:
- Ear pain
- Painful chewing
- Itchy ears
- Swelling of the ear canal
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Cloudy discharge draining from the ear
Primary and Specialty Care in Henry County
At
Henry County Hospital, we have 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.