Summer presents unique opportunities for fun in the sun, but it can create significant dangers for your health and safety because it is also the hottest of the four seasons. Too much sun is associated with skin damage and an increased risk of heat-related illnesses. Take extra steps such as visiting an internal medicine practice regularly and ensuring you are adequately hydrated to ensure a safe and healthy summer.
Here are five tips for a safe and healthy summer.
Stay Hydrated
The summer heat is on in Texas, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, ranging from heat rash to heat stroke. The latter, characterized by high body temperatures and loss of consciousness, is a medical emergency. Therefore, ensuring you are adequately hydrated, limiting your time outside, and staying in an air-conditioned location is essential for preventing heat-related illness. In addition, to stay cool and safe, it is crucial to drink before you feel thirsty, as, by that time, you may already be dehydrated.
Apply Sunscreen
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of how much sunburn protection a sunscreen provides. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF15. However, you may want to consider a higher value for better protection from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet radiation, using it as directed and applying it frequently while exposed to the sun. Broad-spectrum refers to sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Wear Sunglasses
The sun’s UV rays are equally damaging to your eyes, increasing your risk of not only sunburned, irritated eyes but the chances of developing specific vision problems. Sunglasses can also reduce outdoor eyestrain and protect you from flying debris. The single best prevention method is to wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. It would help if you also considered oversized sunglasses since they tend to protect the entire area surrounding your eyes.
Prevent Injuries
Backyard barbecues, outdoor activities, and other favorite summer pastimes often require taking extra precautions to ensure your and your family’s safety. For example, grilling is associated with a significant fire hazard. The National Fire Protection Association provides several tips for preventing structure fires and personal injury, such as ensuring the grill is placed a safe distance from flammable materials and never leaving it unattended – especially if you have children or pets.
Schedule Appointments at an Internal Medicine Practice
Take charge of your health by seeing your physician regularly. Annual physical exams are vital for preventing disease, while scheduling a healthcare clinic appointment when you’re not feeling well can help you get on the road to recovery quicker. Regular visits are equally essential for monitoring specific medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
The physicians at Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic believe that patients should periodically receive general physical or wellness examinations, depending on their age and overall health status.
Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic is an internal medicine practice that provides patients with compassionate, quality care at our conveniently located healthcare clinic in Shenandoah, Texas. Another option offered by our practice is virtual telehealth.
The physicians at Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic have been caring for the families of Conroe, North Houston, and The Woodlands for many years. They are committed to optimizing patient health and well-being.
We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. In addition, Dr. Charron offers extended hours on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. Schedule an appointment for all your medical needs at (281) 863-9554.
Our internal medical practice is located at:
9201 Pinecroft Dr, Suite 200
Shenandoah, TX 77380
Resources:
“Grilling Safety Tips.” National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
“How to Choose the Best Sunglasses: Six Things to Consider.” The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
“Tips for a Healthy Summer.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP).
“Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun: From Sunscreen to Sunglasses.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Natural Disasters and Severe Weather.
