Introduction
As the days get warmer and the official start of summer approaches, it is important to note that apart from the joys of warmth and days on the beach, with ice cream, summer brings about unique challenges and considerations in health care. These range from heat-related illnesses and insect-borne diseases to dehydration, skin protection, and hydration necessities. This article discusses summertime clinical considerations, focusing on the healthcare challenges and associated treatments and preventative or management measures (Robinson et al., 2000; Thomas et al., 2008; Gauer and Meyers, 2019; Sergeev et al., 2022).
Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, weakness, and excessive sweating. Treatment includes rest in a cool environment, fluid resuscitation, and prompt cooling techniques. Prevention can be achieved by staying hydrated and avoiding physically demanding activities during peak heat hours (Gauer & Meyers, 2019).
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency marked by a fever (>40°C/104°F), altered mental state, and potentially fatal complications. Immediate cooling treatment, intravenous fluids, and intensive care management are crucial. Preventing heatstroke involves avoiding extended exposure to high temperatures and staying cool and hydrated (Gauer & Meyers, 2019).
Insect-Borne Diseases
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
The risk of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika and West Nile viruses increases during summer. Reducing exposure to mosquitoes involves eliminating standing water breeding areas and using insect repellents. According to recent studies, the incidence of these diseases is rising due to climate change, making preventive measures even more critical (Sergeev et al., 2022).
Tick-Borne Diseases
Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease thrive in wooded and grassy areas during summer. Preventing tick bites involves using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor activities (Sergeev et al., 2022).
Skin Protection
Sunburn
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to sunburn, causing the skin to become red, painful, and blistered. Preventive measures include wearing protective clothing, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours (Hung et al., 2022).
Skin Cancer
Preventing skin cancer involves educating people about sun-safe practices, such as applying sunscreen, dressing in sun-protective clothing, and avoiding indoor tanning. Routine skin exams and early detection and reporting of suspicious lesions to healthcare personnel are essential (Fu et al., 2024).
Dehydration and Hydration Management
Dehydration
Dehydration is a symptom of heat-related illnesses characterized by thirst, dry mouth, lightheadedness, and dark urine. Prevention involves drinking plenty of fluids, including water and electrolyte-rich drinks, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake (Thomas et al., 2008).
Hydration Management
Hydration is vital during summer because of the hot weather. Techniques include drinking fluids before, during, and after outdoor activities. For individuals who exercise for extended periods or intensely, electrolyte replacement solutions may be recommended to replace lost fluids and electrolytes (Thomas et al., 2008).
Conclusion
In summary, the season of summer presents unique clinical considerations, necessitating proactive initiatives and care, ranging from preventing heat-related illnesses and shielding the skin from sun damage to reducing the risk of insect-borne infections and encouraging hydration. Being aware of these challenges associated with the season and how to prevent and treat them will lessen negative effects and promote a safe and happy summer.
References
Fu, S., Kim, S., & Wasko, C. (2024). Dermatological guide for primary care physicians: full body skin checks, skin cancer detection, and patient education on self-skin checks and sun protection. Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1080/08998280.2024.2351751
Gauer, R., & Meyers, B. K. (2019). Heat-Related Illnesses. American Family Physician, 99(8), 482–489. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0415/p482.html
Hung, M., Beazer, I. R., Su, S., Bounsanga, J., Hon, E. S., & Lipsky, M. S. (2022). An Exploration of the Use and Impact of Preventive Measures on Skin Cancer. Healthcare, 10(4), 743. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10040743
Robinson, J. K., Rigel, D. S., & Amonette, R. A. (2000). Summertime sun protection used by adults for their children. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 42(5), 746–753. https://doi.org/10.1067/mjd.2000.103984
Sergeev, A., Lalonde, C., & Pons, W. (2022). The role of climate change in the spread of vectors and vector-borne disease in Windsor-Essex County. Environmental Health Review, 65(3), 95–101. https://doi.org/10.5864/d2022-018
Thomas, D. R., Cote, T. R., Lawhorne, L., Levenson, S. A., Rubenstein, L. Z., Smith, D. A., Stefanacci, R. G., Tangalos, E. G., & Morley, J. E. (2008). Understanding Clinical Dehydration and Its Treatment. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 9(5), 292–301. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamda.2008.03.006