The Dr's Say! Summer Safety Tips

Submitted by:

Megha Panda, D.O., Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Eskenazi Health Center, Blackburn

Summer is a great time to enjoy picnics, barbecues, swims, walks, and hikes in the park. Make sure to take a few steps to protect yourself before engaging in these summer activities:

• Protect your skin. Skin cancer is quite common, but there is much you can do to prevent it. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher 30 minutes before going outdoors and every 2 hours afterward (or right after swimming or other exercise). Take advantage of natural shade. Keep in mind that all skin tones can develop skin cancer, and we should all take precautions. Everyone should watch for changing moles, new bumps or spots, patchy skin, and wounds that don’t heal. Early detection is crucial.

• Wear sunglasses. Your eyes and your skin need protection as well. Ultraviolet (UV) rays may lead to eye cancers and other conditions, so try to find sunglasses with 100% UV or UV400 protection if possible. Wear hats when outside, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Pay attention to your body’s reaction to the heat. Make sure to always seek a cool environment and shaded areas, take rests every 15 to 30 minutes during activities, and drink cool liquids to stay hydrated. Your body can get overheated very quickly. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, headache, clammy skin, or chills. If you do not improve with rest, a cool environment, and hydration, you should seek medical attention. Avoid your condition progressing to heat stroke, which can be deadly. 

• Fluids, fluids, fluids …. Stay hydrated. If you are thirsty, you may already be dehydrated. Make a point of drinking regularly in the summer. Set a timer on your phone if needed.

• Remember bug spray. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the mosquito is the “deadliest animal.” According to the state government website, mosquitoes can cause five diseases in Indiana. This includes the West Nile virus and two types of encephalitis. Make sure you cover your legs and arms when in mosquito-heavy areas and during evening hours. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency gives recommendations for repellent at Epa.gov/Insect-Repellents/Find-Repellent-Right-You. 

Protect yourself so that you can enjoy every minute of this beautiful summer season.