Summer is a season of fun and outdoor activities, but it also brings unique health risks. From heat-related illnesses to water accidents and sports injuries, knowing the early warning signs can help prevent minor problems from becoming emergencies.
Heat Illnesses Can Escalate Quickly
When temperatures soar, dehydration becomes a silent threat. Dry lips, dizziness, or the inability to sweat despite the heat are all red flags.
“If you stop sweating or feel lightheaded, that’s a sign your body is struggling to cool itself,” said Dr. Sarah Vermillion, emergency medicine physician at McLaren Greater Lansing.
It’s important to stay hydrated by sipping water regularly and avoiding alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen dehydration.
Heat exhaustion can develop into a heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. Confusion, nausea, or a sense of impending fainting require immediate medical attention.
“If you’re so dehydrated that you can’t drink, or you start feeling disoriented, that’s when you should head to the ER,” said Dr. Vermillion. “Children, older adults, athletes, and people with chronic health conditions are at higher risk.”
Water Activities Require Caution
Boating, jet skiing, and swimming are summer staples, but they come with serious risks. Accidents often occur when people ignore safety measures or mix alcohol with water sports.
“Injuries from boating or jet skiing are common—especially when life jackets aren’t worn,” said Dr. Vermillion.
“A blow to the head from tubing or diving should never be taken lightly. If someone loses consciousness or feels confused, they need to be evaluated in the ER right away,” said Dr. Vermillion.
Wearing a Coast Guard–approved life jacket, staying sober, and keeping an eye on children can prevent many of these tragedies.
Bug Bites and Stings Can Turn Serious
Most bug bites are harmless, but some can trigger severe allergic reactions. Benadryl or hydrocortisone cream usually helps with mild irritation. However, if the bite becomes red or swollen, it could be infected. Difficulty breathing, throat tightness, or swelling of the face are signs of anaphylaxis, which requires immediate emergency care.
“Drawing a circle around the bite helps track if swelling is spreading,” said Dr. Vermillion.
Burns and Firework Injuries
Campfires, grilling, and fireworks can lead to burn injuries, particularly in children. Minor burns without blisters can be treated with cool water and aloe vera.
“If it blisters, covers a large area, or wraps around a limb, that’s more serious and you should be seen,” said Dr. Vermillion.
Keeping fire pits supervised and disposing of hot coals properly are simple steps to prevent burns.
Sports and Outdoor Injuries
Summer activities such as biking and skateboarding often lead to fractures and head injuries.
“Helmets and padding aren’t just for scrapes—they save lives by preventing serious head trauma,” said Dr. Vermillion. “If you hit your head and experience dizziness, confusion, or vomiting, seek medical care immediately.”
McLaren Greater Lansing provides 24/7/365 emergency care for emergency and non-emergency situations. You can conveniently check in online from the comfort of your home and hold off coming into the emergency room until it’s close to your time of being seen. Click here to view real-time wait times or to check in online.
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