The summer season beckons us to embrace the freedom of going barefoot and enjoying leisurely moments by the pool in our bathing suits.
However, it’s important to recognize that these seemingly innocent warm-weather habits can unexpectedly lead to health issues.
Here, we offer guidance on avoiding common summertime ailments, empowering you to fully relish your days under the sun.
1. Headaches
Why does this happen in summer?
Straining your eyes against the intense glare of the sun can lead to the tightening of facial muscles and result in the pulsating discomfort of a tension headache.
Similarly, the combination of hot and humid weather can cause the expansion of blood vessels in the head, triggering the onset of a migraine.
Extended exposure to the sun can lead to “heat exhaustion” headaches, a condition that arises when your body struggles to release heat efficiently, causing a rise in body temperature. This may manifest as symptoms like nausea, vomiting, muscle fatigue, and dizziness.
Fast fixes:
To protect yourself, shield from the sun’s rays by donning a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Plan your outdoor activities for the cooler morning and evening periods, and ensure you stay well-hydrated, as proper hydration aids in efficient perspiration and heat dissipation.
If a headache arises, find a cool environment, hydrate adequately, and consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
However, if you experience persistent dizziness or feelings of faintness, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance.
2. Athlete’s Foot
Why does this happen in summer?
The risk of contracting athlete’s foot or another fungal skin or nail infection is heightened during this time, as fungi are contagious and easily transmitted when going barefoot.
Additionally, the combination of sweaty feet and hot weather creates a moist environment within shoes, which is ideal for fungal growth.
Common symptoms include dry and itchy skin between the toes or on the soles, as well as thickened and discolored toenails.
Fast fixes:
To combat these issues, it is important to clean your feet thoroughly on a daily basis using soap and water to wash away fungi, followed by complete drying.
When wearing closed-toe shoes, opt for socks with good ventilation or change them frequently. Brands like Geox offer excellent ventilation options.
Sandals made from natural materials like leather or cork are preferable as they help keep feet cooler and drier compared to plastic or rubber varieties.
It is advisable to wear flip-flops when walking around public pools to reduce the risk of fungal infection.
In the event that you do contract athlete’s foot, an over-the-counter cream such as Tinactin can typically resolve the issue within two weeks. For toenail fungus, a prescription oral medication may be necessary for a complete cure.
3. Kidney Stones
Why does this happen in summer?
With warmer temperatures, the risk of dehydration increases, and when there is a lack of proper fluid intake, mineral deposits can accumulate and form hard stones that may obstruct the urinary tract.
Another contributing factor is the popularity of low-carb diets among women striving to maintain a bikini-ready figure.
The high protein content in meat-heavy diets reduces calcium absorption, leading to increased calcium excretion in urine and facilitating the formation of stones.
Kidney stones can cause intense pain in the lower back and abdomen on either side. Additional symptoms may include bloody urine, nausea, vomiting, or fever.
Fast fixes:
It is essential to drink a minimum of eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily and limit the consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they promote urine production and lead to water loss.
If a kidney stone does develop, it’s worth noting that approximately 85 percent of them are small enough to pass naturally within three days.
For larger stones, shock-wave treatment can be employed to crush them. Your doctor can evaluate your condition and determine the most suitable course of action.
4. Vaginal yeast infections
Why does this happen in summer?
Yeast thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments, making the snug and damp crotch of a wet bathing suit an ideal breeding ground for infections.
Deodorant tampons, commonly used by many women during swim season, can also trigger infections. The perfumes present in these tampons disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina that normally keep yeast growth in check.
If you experience an itchy and burning sensation in your vagina, along with a discharge resembling cottage cheese, it may indicate an infection.
Fast fixes:
To prevent such issues, it is advisable to change into dry clothing after swimming or exercising, and opt for loose underwear made of cotton or moisture-wicking materials like Coolmax. These fabrics help to draw away perspiration and keep you dry.
Switching to fragrance-free tampons is recommended to maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the vagina.
In the event of a yeast infection, over-the-counter remedies such as Monistat can typically clear it up within three days. However, if symptoms persist, it is important to consult your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.