Summer is finally here—and with it comes sunshine, sandals, frozen treats, and all the outdoor fun you’ve been waiting for. But along with the good stuff, the heat and humidity can bring some not-so-fun health hiccups. From sizzling sunburns to bug bites that bite back, it’s important to know when something is no big deal… and when it might be time to give your doctor a call.
At City Care Family Practice, we want you to soak up the sunshine safely. So let’s dive into some common summer health concerns and when you might need to check in with your PCP.
☀️ Common Summer Health Concerns (and When to Worry)
Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke
If you’re sweating buckets, feeling dizzy, or your heart’s racing after some time in the sun, your body might be overheating.
- Heat Exhaustion: Think heavy sweating, muscle cramps, headache, and nausea. Not fun—but fixable. Head to a cooler spot, sip water, and rest.
- Heat Stroke: This is serious business. If someone seems confused, stops sweating, has a body temp over 104°F, or even passes out—call 911 immediately. This is a medical emergency.
🌡️ Pro tip: Listen to your body! If the heat feels like too much, it probably is.
Sunburn That Stings (or Blisters!)
We’ve all had that one beach day where sunscreen took a back seat. A light burn is usually just a reminder to reapply. But if you’ve got:
- Large blisters
- Swelling
- Chills or fever
- Intense pain
…it’s time to see your doctor. And remember—a bad sunburn isn’t just uncomfortable—it raises your risk for skin cancer down the road.
Dehydration—It’s More Common Than You Think
When it’s hot out, your body loses water faster than you might realize. If you’re feeling extra thirsty, dizzy, or your urine’s looking darker than usual, it’s time to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
But if you’re still feeling off despite chugging water—or worse, you’re confused or lethargic—your body might need more help than a bottle of Gatorade. Call your doc.
Bug Bites, Poison Ivy & Summer Allergies
A little itch is normal. But if you’re swelling up like a balloon, having trouble breathing, or your heart’s racing after a bite or sting, don’t wait—seek emergency care.
Even poison ivy can turn into a problem if there’s infection or it spreads too far. When in doubt, let us take a look.
Swim Smart: Waterborne Illnesses
Lakes and pools aren’t always as clean as they look. If you’ve been swimming and start experiencing tummy trouble (like vomiting or diarrhea), it could be more than just a bad hot dog. Most cases pass on their own, but persistent symptoms? Call your PCP.
🩺 When Should I Call My Primary Care Doctor?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet. Reach out to your PCP if you experience:
- A high fever after sun exposure
- Blistering sunburns or signs of infection
- Severe headaches or confusion after heat exposure
- Dehydration symptoms that don’t improve with fluids
- Major allergic reactions (trouble breathing, swelling, rapid heartbeat)
- GI issues after swimming in lakes, rivers, or public pools
❓ Q&A: Your Summer Health Questions Answered
Q: How can I avoid heat-related issues?
A: Stay cool! Drink lots of water, wear breathable clothes, and avoid strenuous activity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (aka peak heat hours).
Q: What should I do if someone has heat stroke?
A: Call 911 right away. While you wait, get them to a cooler place and use cold compresses on their neck, armpits, and groin.
Q: How do I protect myself from sunburn?
A: Lather up with SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and try to stay in the shade when the sun’s at its strongest.
Q: When does a sunburn require a doctor visit?
A: If there are widespread blisters, intense pain, fever, or signs of infection (like pus or swelling), call us.
Q: What are red flags for dehydration?
A: Look out for dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, confusion, and extreme fatigue. These can all signal that your body needs help—fast.
📞 Contact Us
We’re here to help you stay safe, cool, and healthy all summer long. Whether you’re unsure about a weird rash or just want to check in before your beach trip, don’t hesitate to reach out.
City Care Family Practice
📍 461 Park Ave South, Fl 9, New York, NY 10016 (at 31st Street)
📞 (212) 545-1888
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and have the best summer yet!