Cool, Cruel Summer

Big plans this summer? While you are enjoying the summer, there are many things to watch out for.

According to WebMD.com, there are several dangers that peek out their heads during summer months more than other months.

STING. The sting of a jellyfish is no skip in the park. If you do get bitten try to find a lifeguard who can put a special medication on the sting, if you can’t find the lifeguard, use vinegar, soda, urine or salt water to help.
STING. If you are stung by a stingray it was probably caused by accidentally stepping on a stingray. Seek immediate medical care, immerse in hot water to remove the stingers, scrub with soap and water and apply any pressure to stop bleeding.
HENNA TATOO. Did you get a henna tattoo with friends at the beach? Well beware, these temporary tattoos can cause an allergic reaction because of the coal tar that might be in the black ink. The bumps shouldn’t be around long.
DANGEROUS PLANTS. Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac can cause an irritable rash that can quickly spread all over the body if not treated immediately. The rash is red and sometimes might swell. These rashes can last up to three weeks. If the rash is severe oral cortisone can be taken.
MOSQUITO BITES. Not only are these pesky bugs annoying but they can leave bothersome bites. By scratching a bite you can cause a skin infection. They might also carry West Nile virus, dengue fever and other rare diseases. Use protection by clothing and DEET repellent.
TICKS. If you are outdoors a lot beware of tick bites. These annoying creatures can attach to your skin and hang on tight. These lil buggers can carry Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Stay covered in grassy areas and use tick repellant.
BEE STING. Usually a reaction to a bee sting is mild unless you are allergic. Minor swelling, itching and pain can occur along with hives and swelling of throat. If your throat begins to close up seek immediate medical care.
CHIGGERS. These are tiny mites usually found in grass, their bites are painless but after a few days they leave itchy, red welts. Over-the-counter products should relieve the itching.
FLIP FLOPS. Who doesn’t love flip flops during summer? But these flimsy shoes off little support and protection. They leave you susceptible to cuts, stubbed toes, puncture wounds or heavy objects smashing your foot. If you are going to be outdoors exerting yourself choose different shoes.
SNAKES. Do you know which snakes are poisonous? The U.S. is home to several poisonous snakes including the rattlesnake, coral snake, water moccasin and copperhead. Bite symptoms can be a burning pain, swelling, weakness, trouble breathing and change in heart rate. Seek medical care immediately if bitten.
NON-POISONOUS. The adult garter snake may not be poisonous but the bite can still lead to infection. If you are traveling overseas beware of pythons or boa constrictors, these snakes can injure your skin, joints, bones and muscles.
BLACK WIDOW. Beware of wood piles and tree stumps, this is the famous black widow’s favorite hiding spot. The bite will cause sharp, shocking pain, look for one or two red fang marks, redness, tenderness. You might experience cramps, nausea, vomiting, seizure and rise in blood pressure. Seek immediate medical care.
BROWN RECLUSE. Beware of attics or closets. These Midwestern/South Central spiders are usually brown, their venom is extremely poisonous and can cause serious wounds. Seek immediate medical care if bitten.
FIREWORKS. Who can celebrate the 4th of July without fireworks? But beware of getting burned. 9,200 people were treated in emergency care from being burned by fireworks in 2006. Educate your children to keep a safe distance away, monitor children with sparklers and remind your men to be safe too.
SKIN CANCER. Beware of the sun! Lather on that SPF 30 sunblock, wear a hat and pick a shady spot if you can. If any of your moles or spots on your skin start to look peculiar then go to a dermatologist.
HEAT RASH. Blocked sweat ducts can cause heat rash which is usually found on body areas covered by clothing. Children usually have heat rash more than adults. A cool bath should help.
SUNBURN. Once again, lather on the SPF 30 sunblock to protect your skin from the sun. If burnt, immediately use aloe vera for relief.