Stay Safe and Healthy: 12 Summer Health Risks to Watch Out For
Nothing ruins summer fun like a sudden injury! Before you dive into summer activities, make sure you’re aware of potential hazards and know how to protect yourself. Here are 12 common summer health risks and expert tips on how to avoid them.
1. Dehydration With up to 78% of your body made of water, staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the summer heat. Dehydration can lead to severe health issues and even be fatal. Aim for at least 64 ounces of water daily, and keep an eye on your urine color – pale yellow is healthy, while darker shades indicate dehydration.
2. Sunburns Sunburns can cause short-term pain and long-term skin damage, including cancer. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, lips, and the tops of your feet.
3. Heat Illnesses Heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke are serious risks in hot weather. Stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Watch for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating, and seek immediate medical attention if needed.
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4. Bee Stings and Insect Bites Bugs love summer too. To protect yourself from stings and bites, use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, avoid scented products, drain standing water, and wear protective clothing.
5. Drowning Water activities are a summer staple but come with risks. Ensure safety by learning CPR, using pool drain covers, wearing life jackets, and enrolling in swimming lessons. Keep a close eye on children around water.
6. Unsafe Summer Foods Cookouts are fun, but improperly handled food can cause illness. Avoid leaving food out in the “danger zone” (40-140°F), and be cautious with smoked meats, which can contain harmful substances. Cook meats thoroughly and discard leftovers if in doubt.
7. Kidney Stones Kidney stones are more common in summer due to dehydration. Stay hydrated, reduce salt intake, and increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables to minimize risk.
8. Gardening-Related Injuries Gardening is great for relaxation but can lead to injuries. Use proper form, take breaks, and use ergonomic tools to prevent strains. Be cautious of poison ivy and other irritating plants.
9. Foot Pain and Shoe Woes Summer footwear like flip-flops and sandals often lack support, leading to foot pain and injuries. Choose supportive shoes, especially during physical activities, and keep your feet dry to prevent blisters.
