How is Summer Affecting Your Health?
If you’re like most people, you look forward to the summer and enjoy spending time outside soaking up the sun. During those long winter months, it can seem like summer is the solution to all your problems, and it provides a lot of opportunity to get active and have fun.
Because it gets many of us outside and moving, summer can be really great for your health and overall wellbeing. However, for the same reasons, summer can actually have a negative impact on your health.
Is summer bad for your health?
It’s a lot easier to be active in the summer, when the days are longer, kids are out of school, and the weather is warmer all through the day (and night, depending on where you live). But with that level of activity comes the risk of injury, illness and overexertion. For example, many people are at risk of heat stroke as the temperatures rise, especially those who are very young or very old. In addition, people who are not as active year-round may find themselves overextended when they try to engage in highly physical activities, like hiking, kayaking, etc. Dehydration and hyperthermia – overheating – are very common during the warm months, as well.
Sun exposure can cause longer-term risks of skin cancer. There also comes the seasonal risks associated with bug bites, allergies and factors impacting asthma and breathing conditions. There are also potential downsides to staying cool in your local pool or with your backyard hose, as waterborne viruses, conjunctivitis and swimmer’s ear are all common this time of year.
So how can you make sure your summer is fun and not potentially damaging to your health? There are a few things to watch out for as you play in the summer sun.
Top things to look out for this summer
If you want to avoid heat stroke, injuries and other potential risks to your health this summer, start by:
- Covering up. Wear sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and enough clothes to keep your skin protected. The sun’s rays may feel great, but the exposure can cause major skin damage.
- Staying hydrated. Drink at least half your weight in ounces of water everyday and make sure to bring a water bottle with you if you’ll be outside playing.
- Play safe. Whitewater rafting or mountain biking without proper gear might not be the best “beginner” activities, so think before you start. Also avoid activities that push you too hard physically that could cause injury.
- Be aware. If you have asthma or allergies, avoid things like pollen exposure, campfire smoke or cigarette smoke. Also look around and watch for bugs, poison ivy or anything that could be harmful.
- Stay cool. On the hottest days of the summer, don’t go outside. Turn on the fan or the A/C unit and grab a cup of ice cold water. Heat stroke is very real, and potentially life-threatening.
While summer does come with its own set of risks, that doesn’t mean you should stop enjoying it. There is so much to do and see, it’s just up to you to be smart about it!
Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201 Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119