Summer is one of the best times of the year. Longer days, vacations, family cookouts, and time outdoors make it easy to stay active and enjoy the season. However, higher temperatures can also increase your risk of dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion, and insect bites.
Whether you’re spending the day at the lake, working outside, taking a walk, or enjoying a backyard barbecue, following a few simple summer health tips can help you stay healthy and make the most of the season.
Stay Ahead of Dehydration
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until they’re thirsty to drink water. By the time you feel thirsty, your body may already be running low on fluids.
Carry a reusable water bottle whenever you’re out, especially if you’re spending time in the sun. If you’re exercising, playing sports, or working outdoors for an extended period, you may also need to replace electrolytes lost through sweating.
Protect Your Skin
A painful sunburn can do more than ruin your weekend, it also makes it harder for your body to cool itself and increases your risk of skin damage.
Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading outside, and remember to reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Wearing a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing can also help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Be Smart About the Heat
The hottest part of the day is usually between late morning and mid-afternoon. If you have yard work planned, want to go for a walk, or intend to exercise, try doing it earlier in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.
Pay attention to how your body feels. If you become dizzy, unusually tired, nauseated, or develop muscle cramps, move to a cool place, drink water, and take a break. These can be early signs of a heat-related illness.
Know the Signs of Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and is more serious than heat exhaustion. Symptoms can include a body temperature above 103°F, confusion, slurred speech, hot or flushed skin, a rapid heartbeat, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency responders, move the person to a cooler area and try to lower their body temperature with cool towels or fans if possible.
Eat Fresh, Seasonal Foods
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, berries, peaches, cucumbers, tomatoes, and leafy greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and water that help keep you hydrated and energized.
Choosing lighter meals can also help you feel more comfortable during hot weather.
Don’t Forget About Bug Protection
Mosquitoes and ticks are more active during the summer months. If you’re hiking, camping, gardening, or spending time in wooded or grassy areas, use an insect repellent and check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks when you return indoors.
Keep Medications Safe
Many medications should not be left in a hot car or exposed to direct sunlight. High temperatures can reduce their effectiveness and, in some cases, damage them.
Certain medications include insulin, inhalers, injectable medications, and some antibiotics may require special storage during the summer, especially while traveling. Never leave medications in a parked vehicle, even for a short time, as temperatures inside can rise quickly.
If you’re unsure how to store your prescriptions while traveling or during extreme heat, ask your pharmacist. It’s a simple question that can help ensure your medications continue working as intended.
Check on Those Most at Risk
Older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. During periods of extreme heat, check on family members, neighbors, and friends to make sure they’re staying cool, drinking enough water, and avoiding prolonged time outdoors.
Enjoy Summer Safely
Summer is meant to be enjoyed. A little preparation such as staying hydrated, protecting your skin, keeping medications stored properly, and paying attention to the heat can go a long way toward helping you stay healthy all season long.
If you have questions about staying hydrated, choosing the right sunscreen, storing your medications safely, or managing your health during the summer months, stop by our pharmacy or give us a call. Our pharmacists are always happy to help you and your family stay healthy all summer long.
