Summer is just around the corner, which also means that different illnesses are on the rise. As we transition into the hotter months, several illnesses and infections that often occur amid outdoor activities become more prevalent.
Rising temperatures and increased time spent outdoors make heat, water, and skin-related illnesses more common in the summer. Fortunately, there are a few preventive measures and remedies available to alleviate symptoms if they arise.
Lyme disease
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the United States, peaking during spring and summer when ticks are most active. Transmission requires the tick to remain attached for at least 36 hours.
The hallmark sign of Lyme disease is an expanding red rash called erythema migrans, which appears in 70-80% of infected people. It often resembles a bullseye pattern. Additional symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches.
If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Untreated, the infection can spread to the joints, nervous system, and heart.
There is no natural way to treat this disease. A full course of antibiotic therapy is the standard. However, there are some things you can do to prevent it.
- Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Tuck pants into socks when in wooded or bushy areas.
- Use EPA-approved repellents on skin
- Bathe or shower within 2 hours of coming indoors.
- Dry clothes on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill ticks.
Cryptosporidiosis (Crypto)
The leading cause of recreational water-associated outbreaks in both treated and untreated water. Cryptosporidium is a parasite that is partially resistant to chlorine, meaning it can survive even in properly treated pools.
Symptoms include watery diarrhea lasting up to 2-3 weeks, along with stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and low-grade fever. Symptoms typically begin 2-10 days after exposure. For those with a compromised immune system, the illness can become life-threatening.
Most cases can be naturally treated with simple supportive care, including oral rehydration. Severe or prolonged cases, especially in immunocompromised individuals, may require medical treatment with nitazoxanide.
To prevent infection:
- Do not swim when you have diarrhea
- Avoid swallowing recreational water
- Shower before entering pools or splash pads
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom
- Take children on regular bathroom breaks
- Change diapers in designated areas, not poolside.
Sun poisoning
Sun poisoning is a colloquial term for a severe sunburn reaction caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It goes beyond ordinary sunburn to include systemic symptoms. Risk increases midday, in places where UV is highest (e.g., reflective surfaces such as water and snow), and with certain photosensitizing medications.
Sun poisoning affects the skin, causing it to turn intensely red, painfully swell, and blister. You may also experience headache, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches and dizziness. Discomfort typically begins several hours after exposure and can be severe.
Treatment is symptomatic. Cool baths, showers, and wet compresses provide relief. Stay well hydrated and rest in a cool environment. Leave blisters intact when possible; if tense or painful, they may be drained with a sterile needle while leaving the blister roof in place.
Applying refrigerated bland emollients, such as aloe vera gel, zinc oxide and petrolatum, can provide comfort. You can also use topical hydrocortisone 1% cream for the blistering and oral pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) for the pain.
To prevent symptoms, make sure you are practicing sun safety:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF ≥30) at least 15 minutes before going outside; reapply every 2–4 hours and after swimming or sweating
- Use at least 1 ounce (a shot glass full) per application to cover exposed skin
- Wear protective clothing with a UV protection factor and UV-blocking sunglasses
- Apply SPF ≥30 lip balm
- Check the daily UV Index forecast and take extra precautions when it is high
Swimmers ear
Prolonged water exposure in the ear canal creates a moist environment that promotes bacterial growth, most commonly Pseudomonas. Symptoms include ear pain, itching, redness, and drainage. If infected, treatment typically involves antibiotic eardrops.
To prevent it, simply take care of your ears after swimming. Dry your ears thoroughly, tilt your head to drain water, and avoid inserting objects in the ear canal.
The summertime presents seasonal risks that come with more time outdoors, in the water, and under the sun. Thankfully, many of them are preventable with a few simple precautions, from checking for ticks and staying hydrated to practicing good pool hygiene and protecting your skin. Pay attention early so you don’t have to deal with symptoms later. The goal should be to spend more time enjoying summer and less time recovering from it.
