Not So Fun-In-The-Sun: 5 Urgent Care Visits to Avoid This Summer

School is out, the sun is shining, outdoor fun is in full swing … and so is the summer injury and illness season. The good news is that most summer Urgent Care visits can be easily prevented. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Read more about five common reasons people come to Urgent Care in the summer, and how to prevent them from happening to you.

Emergency rooms are for traumatic and life-threatening injuries. Yes, you can visit an ER for any number of health issues. But the long waits (and increased expense) make them the wrong fit for certain situations.

1.Heat-related illness

As temperatures rise, so do Urgent Care visits due to heat-related illnesses. Remember to be mindful of the temperature, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks – especially during the hottest time of the day. Mild symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, dizziness, headaches and confusion.

2.Water-related injuries

From running (and falling) at the swimming pool to water skiing and tubing accidents, water-related injuries increase during the summer months. When at a pool or supervised beach, remember to read and obey all safety signs. If you’re at a river or lake, keep watch for submerged objects such as trees, branches, rocks and trash that could cause cuts. Always enter the water feet first.

3.Sports-related injuries

Strains, sprains, fractures, pulled muscles… you name it, and any type of summer activity can cause it. You don’t have to play organized sports to get injured. Even less-intense summer fun like frisbee can result in an Urgent Care visit if you’re not careful. A good rule of thumb is to pay attention to the temperature and stay hydrated. Also, remember to take about 10 minutes to warm up to get your body ready for activity.

4.Head injuries

Think the “wear a helmet” rule only applies to kids? Wrong. Anyone who’s outside biking, skating, skateboarding and climbing should wear a properly fitted helmet. It’s an important way to prevent head injuries following crashes and falls. In addition to head protection, make sure your equipment is properly fitted, maintained and wear the right shoes. Sandals, flip-flops and shoes with heals or cleats are a no-no when you’re on wheels.

5.Food poisoning and gastroenteritis

Summer barbecues are supposed to be relaxing and fun, not gut-wrenching and painful. Unfortunately, hot temperatures and humid conditions are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Want to avoid food poisoning and gastroenteritis? Be careful about eating food that’s been sitting out in the sun all day and (as always) wash your hands thoroughly before eating.

Sioux Falls Urgent Care is open 7 days a week with high-quality, patient-focused care and no wait times. That’s your kind of care!