Here’s a look at the top common summer ailments to look out for this season and how we can help you find relief.
It may be summertime, but the livin’ isn’t always easy. With sunshine, warmer weather and outdoor activities come additional health hazards. We are here to help you treat common summer ailments!
SUNBURNS
Sunburns are probably the most common summer ailment. They can also be the most dangerous—especially if it doesn’t heal properly. They can cause age spots, wrinkles, infections and even skin cancer.
After getting a sunburn, apply a pure aloe vera gel or moisturizers that contain aloe vera to soothe sunburned skin and provide pain relief.
You may want to use over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to help reduce swelling or discomfort. Let us review your medication regime before starting any pain relievers.
It’s important to use the right sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Check out our previous blog on what to look for in a sunscreen or come by the store to find one that’s right for you.
POISON IVY, POISON OAK, AND POISON SUMAC
Poisonous plants are often hard to avoid for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, like hiking, camping or even yard work. Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are the three most likely culprits of itchy skin rashes after being outside. The rashes are caused by urushiol oil and typically appear within 12-72 hours of encountering the plants.
If you’re experiencing a reaction to poisonous plants, try calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to soothe itchy skin.
Other products that can help reduce itching include colloidal oatmeal, which can be added to a warm bath, or try oral antihistamines. Be careful not to use topical antihistamines, as these can further irritate the skin and worsen the rash.
BUG BITES
Let’s face it. Nobody likes bug bites. They can be itchy, painful and can cause serious allergic reactions. Summertime is when some of the most annoying—and dangerous—bugs are out in full force, including mosquitoes, bees, spiders, and ticks.
If you happen to get bitten by a mosquito or other bugs try products like calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream, and oral antihistamines to help ease pain and itching. Additionally, ice packs can help reduce swelling, especially with bee or wasp stings.
Don’t forget to apply a bug-repellent before going outdoors. One of our favorites is the Puracy Organic Bug Spray, which you can find at the pharmacy.
ALLERGIES
Spring isn’t the only season that causes bad allergies. Pollen and mold are the most common summer allergy triggers, and they can affect anyone—even adults who’ve never experienced allergies before.
If you’re experiencing summer allergies, let’s talk about your current medication regimen and whether you’ve taken allergy medications before. Then, we can find the appropriate OTC antihistamine or decongestant, including pills, eye drops or nasal sprays.
You can also try homeopathic treatment options, such as nasal cleansing pots and saline solutions.