By BlackDoctor.Org

By Brianna McClendon

The summer is a great time to have fun, soak up all the vitamin D and enjoy not wearing a 2-pound heavy winter coat. While it’s something a lot of people look forward to, there are still some things to be cautious of in the summer.

Here are the top health concerns/illnesses to watch out for in the summer!

Home / Wellness / General Health / Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

The summer is a great time to have fun, soak up all the vitamin D and enjoy not wearing a 2-pound heavy winter coat. While it’s something a lot of people look forward to, there are still some things to be cautious of in the summer.

Here are the top health concerns/illnesses to watch out for in the summer!

Insect bites/stings and Lyme disease

Get out your bug spray and OFF! Insects love the summer and just like us, it is their time to thrive. While most of the time a bite from a mosquito or spider might just be annoying and itch, just be careful.

It can easily turn into an infection from too much scratching, you could be allergic, or the type of insect that bit you might have its own set of issues, like ticks. Be cautious, especially for my people who have allergies to certain bugs.

Home / Wellness / General Health / Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

The summer is a great time to have fun, soak up all the vitamin D and enjoy not wearing a 2-pound heavy winter coat. While it’s something a lot of people look forward to, there are still some things to be cautious of in the summer.

Here are the top health concerns/illnesses to watch out for in the summer!

Insect bites/stings and Lyme disease

Get out your bug spray and OFF! Insects love the summer and just like us, it is their time to thrive. While most of the time a bite from a mosquito or spider might just be annoying and itch, just be careful.

It can easily turn into an infection from too much scratching, you could be allergic, or the type of insect that bit you might have its own set of issues, like ticks. Be cautious, especially for my people who have allergies to certain bugs.

Heat exhaustion

Keep hydrated and watch the temperature. Being outside when it’s warm is okay, but when it starts to push 90 and above, proceed with caution.

Some symptoms of heat exhaustion are dizziness, fatigue, cramps. It’s best to get heat exhaustion under control quickly because it can turn into heat stroke if left untreated.

Food poisoning

Picnics in the summer are super fun and cute! As cute as a picnic basket is, maybe try for a cooler instead.

When certain foods get warm and are left that way for a while, it can increase your chances of getting a foodborne illness. Just remember to keep your foods cool, and maybe opt for more fruit and vegetables and less meat.

Asthma attacks

People with asthma need to really take care of themselves as the air becomes thicker and more humid, not allowing them to breathe as efficiently.

Make sure to keep your inhalers nearby, never be afraid to perform a breathing treatment, and try not to be out in the heat for extended periods of time if possible.

Home / Wellness / General Health / Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

Top Health Concerns in the summer – Be Smart!

Asthma attacks

People with asthma need to really take care of themselves as the air becomes thicker and more humid, not allowing them to breathe as efficiently.

Make sure to keep your inhalers nearby, never be afraid to perform a breathing treatment, and try not to be out in the heat for extended periods of time if possible.

Dehydration

Drink your water! Being thirsty already means you’re dehydrated, so make sure to always have something to hydrate you nearby. For my folks who aren’t a fan of drinking water, try infusing your water with fruits or something you like or drink Gatorade or tea.

Drowning

If you are not a trained swimmer, or can at least do the basic strokes to keep you afloat, be cautious.

Never do anything you’re uncomfortable with and make sure there is either someone who knows how to swim nearby or a lifeguard is on guard. If you are uncomfortable or there is no form of supervision, stay in the shallow end of the pool or body of water.

Sunburn

Yes, it can still happen to us! Everyone has different skin types and sensitivities, so it’s better to just apply your SPF and have a fun day outside!

Rashes

Whether it be heat rashes or a rash from a plant, make sure you get it checked out and apply some anti-itch cream to avoid scratching the area vigorously.

The summer is a great time to get out, have fun and enjoy, but make sure you’re safe while doing so!