A family doctor can play a crucial role in helping you stay safe during Florida’s hot summer months. Each year, over 65,000 people in the U.S. end up in emergency rooms due to heat-related illnesses. Summer in Florida is filled with opportunities for fun. However, it also brings risks like dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion.
This article will share simple tips to keep you and your family healthy while enjoying this season.
1. Stay Hydrated in the Florida Heat
Florida’s heat and humidity can dehydrate you quickly. This may be the case even if you are not participating in vigorous outdoor activities. Dehydration can lead to dizziness, confusion, and other severe health problems if not addressed early.
Drinking plenty of water is essential. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day. Also, increase that amount if you are active or exposed to the sun for long periods. Avoid drinks like soda or alcohol, as they can further dehydrate you.
To keep hydration interesting for children, you can add slices of fruit into their water or fresh juices. Ensure you monitor hydration levels in seniors and younger children. They are more prone to dehydration.
2. Practice Sun Protection Religiously
Florida’s sun can be harsh, especially during peak hours between 10 AM and 4 PM. Without proper protection, you risk harmful sunburns. There are also the long-term effects of ultraviolet (UV) exposure, like premature aging and skin cancer.
Tips for sun safety include:
Apply Sunscreen
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Make sunscreen a habit for all family members. Additionally, ensure children are protected, as their skin is much more sensitive to UV rays.
Wear Protective Clothing
Opt for long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses for added skin protection.
Seek Shade
If possible, avoid spending an extended amount of time directly under the sun. Carry an umbrella to beaches or events where there is limited shade.
3. Keep an Eye on Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke Symptoms
Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke are common in Florida during the summer. Recognizing symptoms is essential for quick action and preventing an escalation in severity.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Headaches
- Lightheadedness
On the other hand, warning signs of heat stroke include:
- Confusion
- Extremely high body temperature
- Unconsciousness
Preventing Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
In severe cases, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can need emergency medical attention. To prevent these conditions, you can:
- Rest indoors or in air-conditioned spaces during extreme heat.
- Take breaks in shaded areas when outdoors.
- Consume electrolytes in addition to water to replenish lost minerals.
If someone shows signs of heatstroke, immediately move them to a cool location and seek medical help. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and should never be ignored.
4. Water Safety is a Must
For Florida residents, beaches and pools are part of summer life. However, water safety cannot be stressed enough, especially for families with children.
Drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death in children. However, simple preventive measures can save lives, such as the following key water safety tips:
- Never leave children unsupervised near water.
- Ensure all family members have basic swimming knowledge.
- Use life jackets, especially for younger children or non-swimmers.
Keep an eye on pool safety equipment such as fences and gates, ensuring they are properly secured. When at the beach, always stay within designated swimming areas and adhere to lifeguard warnings.
5. Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely
Scheduling outdoor activities at the right times can help minimize exposure to the harsh Florida climate.
Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for outings when the sun is less intense. If you plan activities during mid-day, ensure they include breaks for hydration and rest in shady spots.
Additionally, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that allows your body to regulate its core temperature. Consider packing essentials like hand fans, portable coolers, and reusable water bottles. They can help make outdoor experiences comfortable.
6. Watch Out for Bug Bites
Florida summers bring along mosquitoes and other insects that can transmit diseases. Protect yourself and your loved ones by using insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin. Apply the repellent over exposed skin, and reapply as instructed on the product label.
When outdoors in areas known for higher insect activity, consider wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants. These types of clothes provide better protection. Eliminate standing water near your home, as it serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
7. Be Prepared for Emergencies
If you are planning road trips, outdoor adventures, or extended stays at campgrounds, you need an emergency kit ready.
This kit should include:
- First aid supplies (band-aids, antiseptic, gauze)
- Medications (including allergy treatments)
- Sunscreen and bug repellents
- Granola bars or non-perishable food
- Bottled water
If you or a family member has health issues, consult your family doctor before doing summer activities. Tailored advice from primary care doctors ensures everyone enjoys a safer season.
Family Doctor in Sarasota and Manatee County, FL
By following these tips, you and your family can stay healthy, safe, and comfortable during Florida’s hottest months. Preparation goes a long way in ensuring you experience a fun-filled summer free from preventable health issues. At Intercoastal Medical Group, we are here to help you and your family stay on top of your health this summer.
Do you have questions about sun protection, hydration, or general summer wellness? Whatever it is, the best family doctor near you is knowledgeable and ready to assist. Call the Intercoastal Medical Group office nearest to you today or use our online appointment request form to schedule an appointment. Trust us to provide expert care that gives your family peace of mind. Enjoy your summer safely!
The best primary care physicians near you accepting new patients look forward to serving you!
