As a season that has lots of potential for having fun, summer is a time that many people look forward to. Although it's a good idea to make the most of it, you also need to be aware of summertime health hazards. Not all of them require the attention of a medical professional, but you need to be aware of those that do.
Swimmer's Ear
The summertime is ideal for donning your bathing suit and going for a healthy swim. If water enters your ear and remains there after you finish swimming, it may cause a bacterial growth that leads to swimmer's ear.
Swimmer's ear is an infection that affects the ear from the eardrum to the external part of the ear canal. Usually, your doctor can treat it using eardrops. If you're experiencing severe pain or you have a fever, attend a walk-in medical clinic for rapid attention.
Heatstroke
Long and hot summer days will always introduce the risk of heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when your body fails to regulate its temperature, which can then result in a loss of consciousness. It's usually preceded by spending too much time in the sun and not staying hydrated.
If you're experiencing dizziness and a fever after a long day in the sun, visit a medical centre. In some cases, this may mean attending an emergency room rather than a medical centre, as heatstroke can have severe consequences.
Bites and Stings
Although bites and stings can occur at any time of the year, the time you spend outdoors during the summer increases your risk of encountering one. In the case of a funnel-web spider, seek immediate medical help. If someone is losing consciousness following a bite or sting, call 000.
Not all Australian snakes are venomous, but it's better to attend a medical centre after a bite rather than risk it. Remain particularly wary of jellyfish stings, as some can cause paralysis and require emergency assistance rather than attending a walk-in centre.
Diarrhoea and Vomiting
Diarrhoea and vomiting can also occur at any time of the year, but they can be riskier during the summer. For example, if you experience prolonged bouts on a particularly hot day, you're at risk of dehydration.
If your diarrhoea and vomiting won't stop, always speak to a medical professional. Should they suspect that you have an infective cause, they may be able to provide you with a treatment that stops it from worsening and shortens your recovery time.
Share