How to Prevent and Treat Common Summer Ailments from Bug Bites to Poison Ivy

Summer in Massachusetts offers a host of outdoor activities. Whether you live in the Greater Boston area or right here in Plymouth County, there’s no shortage of summer fun to be had. 

The team at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, wants you to know that warm weather and time outdoors aren’t without their risks. Summertime does bring some health risks to watch out for, but with a bit of preparation, you can treat and prevent these ailments and make the most of your summer. 

Combat sun and heat-related issues

Sunburn, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are common ailments associated with increased sunshine. Here’s how you can stay ahead of any issues and keep yourself feeling great all summer long. 

Protect your skin

Even on overcast days in the summer, the sun’s ultraviolet rays are powerful. If you’re enjoying time outdoors this summer, keep your skin protected with sunscreen. Without it, you’re vulnerable to sunburn and sun damage, which contributes to premature skin aging. 

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Opt for 30 SPF or higher
• Apply daily
• Reapply every few hours
• Use water-resistant sunscreens for swimming

In addition to these measures, wear sun-protective gear, such as sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats.

Stay hydrated

Elevated temperatures and outdoor summer activities increase your body’s water needs. When it comes to staying hydrated during the summer, drinking plenty of water throughout the day is the best place to start, but it isn’t the only defense against heat-related illness. Here are our top tips for beating the summer heat and staying hydrated.

• Eat mineral-rich foods (bananas and leafy greens)
• Avoid caffeinated beverages (they increase fluid loss)
• Snack on water-dense foods (watermelon, pineapple, plums)

Electrolytes, especially sodium, are crucial for maintaining fluid balance. This makes it a good idea to replace sodium lost through sweat. If you’re physically active during summer months, a low-sugar sports or electrolyte drink can help you stay hydrated. 

Repel insects to prevent bug bites

Summertime brings exposure to insects that bite and sting. Whether you’re out enjoying time in a park, doing yard work, or going on a hike, protecting yourself from bug bites and stings can help you avoid days of itchy misery. 

Avoid attracting bugs

It’s easy to attract bugs without realizing it. Here are a few surefire ways to ensure you aren’t inviting bugs to your activities:

• Drain standing water to avoid mosquitoes
• Avoid leaving food uncovered
• Skip perfumes and scented products

If you’re venturing into areas with tall grass where ticks are common, wear protective clothing. Choose long sleeves and pants, and tuck your pants into your socks. 

Wear insect repellent

Choose an insect repellent with an active ingredient shown to keep bugs away, such as DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). Products with DEET are effective at repelling insects anywhere from 90 minutes up to 10 hours. Check the product to determine how long the protection lasts.

If you do get a big bite, avoid scratching, as it increases the risk of infection. Most bug bites are mild and easy to treat at home. Washing the affected area with gentle soap and water and applying an anti-itch cream can help keep you comfortable while the bite heals. 

Seek emergency help right away if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses

Bacteria and certain other pathogens grow more quickly in warmer weather, which explains why foodborne illnesses spike in the summer months. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

• Check food recall notices
• Avoid leaving food out for more than two hours
• Follow safe food preparation practices
• Follow safe food storage practices
• Avoid risky foods like raw milk

Most cases of food-borne illness are mild and resolve on their own. If you experience symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pains, or a high fever, Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC offers same-day appointments for patients 12 and over. 

Watch out for poisonous plants

Avoiding exposure to poisonous plants is part of enjoying the outdoors safely. Poison ivy and poison sumac are two of the most common poisonous plants that grow in the Eastern States. These plants produce a colorless resin called urushiol that causes intense itching upon skin contact.

Poison ivy is a climbing vine found in damp, shady areas along the East Coast, while poison sumac is a shrub that thrives in swampy areas. Take some time to learn to identify these plants so you can avoid them.

If you do come into skin contact with a poisonous plant, thoroughly wash the area with soap and apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. 

Staying safe this summer

Enjoying warmer weather after the winter thaw shouldn’t compromise your health. Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC is here to keep you healthy throughout the summer and beyond. To learn more about staying healthy this summer, contact our West Bridgewater, Massachusetts clinic to request a visit.