As the weather warms and the days grow longer, many Americans are eager to spend more time outdoors, enjoying cookouts, pool parties, and other activities. However, experts warn that the increase in outdoor activities during long weekends also leads to more trips to urgent care or even the emergency room. Dr. Christopher M. McStay, the vice chair for clinical operations at Columbia University’s Department of Emergency Medicine, explains that the risk for heat stroke, drowning, and sports injuries goes up in the hotter seasons, and these are mostly preventable.
To help you stay safe and avoid ending up in a doctor’s office this summer, we asked doctors to explain the most common reasons why patients seek medical attention during the summer months and what can be done to prevent these issues.
1. Heat-related illness:
During the summer, people often show up at the doctor’s office with heat-related conditions, ranging from mild dehydration to severe heatstroke. Dr. Dawne Kort, an emergency medicine doctor and attending physician at CityMD Urgent Care Walk-In Medical Clinic, advises being mindful of the temperature, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged periods of time outside when it is hot, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
2. Swimming injuries and drowning:
As the temperatures rise, there is an uptick in drowning incidents and water activity accidents. Dr. Joseph Perno, a pediatric emergency medicine physician, explains that drowning is the second most common cause of death among children ages 1-4 years old. He suggests rotating designated adults to supervise water activities during pool parties to ensure children’s safety.
3. Burns and cuts:
There are numerous hospital visits for burns associated with grilling and campfires, as well as cuts from kitchen knives. Dr. McStay advises being safe and applying lighter fluid to coals when they are not lit.
4. Food poisoning and gastroenteritis:
Gastrointestinal issues frequently bring people to the emergency room during warmer months. Dr. Kort cautions that food-borne illnesses peak in the summer due to bacteria multiplying rapidly in hot and humid conditions. Properly cooking food, washing fruits and vegetables, and avoiding leaving food out in the sun can help prevent these issues.
5. Sports injuries:
Playing frisbee, football, and engaging in outdoor activities can lead to sports-related injuries such as sprained wrists, twisted ankles, and broken bones. Resting the body, icing the injury, compressing the body part, and elevating the injured area can help with the healing process, but seeking prompt medical attention is important if something feels seriously wrong or keeps getting worse.
6. Skin irritations and insect bites:
Spending long days outdoors increases the risk of skin irritations from plants like poison ivy, sumac, and oak. Insect and tick bites are also common and may require medical attention if they lead to infection. Monitoring any bumps or swelling and practicing expert-backed tips to protect yourself from ticks and mosquitoes can help prevent these issues.
7. Sunburns:
While most sunburns can be treated at home, some may require a trip to the doctor if they result in blistering or are accompanied by severe symptoms. It is essential to practice good sun protection habits, especially with children who may forget to reapply sunscreen.
In conclusion, with the warmer weather and longer days, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with outdoor activities during the summer months. By taking preventive measures and being cautious, you can enjoy the summer while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
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