As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, summer brings forth a myriad of outdoor activities and opportunities for fun. However, along with the joys of the season, summer also brings certain health risks. From heat-related illnesses to seasonal allergies, it's essential to be aware of common summer ailments and take preventive measures to stay healthy and enjoy the season to its fullest.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Definition: Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, while heatstroke is a more severe condition characterised by a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, says Dr Vigyan Mishra, Chief of lab, Neuberg Diagnostics, Noida.
Symptoms: Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Heatstroke symptoms include a high body temperature, altered mental state, rapid pulse, and potentially loss of consciousness.
Prevention: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
Sunburn
Definition: Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, leading to inflammation and redness, says Mishra.
Symptoms: Redness, pain, swelling, and blistering of the skin.
Prevention: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor), wear protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses, seek shade when possible, and avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Dehydration
Definition: Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an imbalance of electrolytes and potential health complications.
Symptoms: Thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion.
Prevention: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when engaging in physical activity or spending time outdoors. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Foodborne illnesses
Definition: Foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella and E. coli infections, are caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages, particularly in warmer temperatures when bacteria multiply more rapidly.
Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
Prevention: Practice good food hygiene by washing hands and surfaces frequently, refrigerating perishable foods promptly, cooking meat and poultry thoroughly, and avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
Seasonal allergies
Definition: Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, mold, and grass.
Symptoms: Sneezing, congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and throat irritation.
Prevention: Keep windows closed to prevent allergens from entering the home, use air conditioning with a HEPA filter to trap airborne allergens, shower and change clothes after outdoor activities, and consider over the counter or prescription allergy medications.
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