Ah, summer – the season of sunshine, sea, and… summer malaise? While the lovely weather can’t guarantee a healthy you, it’s essential to be aware of the potential dangers that come with it. After a harsh winter, our bodies are more susceptible to various illnesses, and summer is no exception.
What are Summer Maladies?
Summer maladies refer to a range of health problems that can occur during the warmer months. From allergies and chronic constipation to sunburn and ear infections, these conditions can be debilitating and unpleasant. So, how can you defend yourself against these summer woes?
In this article, we will explore the common summer maladies, their causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent them. We’ll also provide tips on how to protect yourself from these illnesses.
Damaging Habits: The Enemy Within
During the summer, we often adopt habits that compromise our health, such as overhydrating after a high sweating rate or exposing ourselves directly to the sun’s rays in hopes of getting that perfect tan. These behaviors can lead to various maladies, including allergies and chronic constipation.
The Common Cold: A Seasonal Favorite
At the top of the list is undoubtedly the summer cold, caused by temperature fluctuations typical of the season. It manifests with similar symptoms as winter colds: cough, sore throat, high body temperature, and closed nostrils. One key difference between winter and summer colds is that the latter is generated by the Enterovirus germ, which not only causes respiratory disturbances but also abdominal pain and constipation.
Sunburn: A Summer Scourge
Another summer malady is caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight without adequate hydration and protection, leading to heatstroke or sunburn. The most common symptoms include increased body temperature, confusion, lack of sweating, and severe headache.
Red Patches on the Skin: A Sun-Kissed Problem
Skin redness, characterized by serious eruptions and red patches on the skin due to excessive exposure to sunlight without adequate sun protection, is another summer illness. Using aloe vera gel and cream can alleviate sunburn pain, while consulting a dermatologist if symptoms worsen is recommended.
Ear Infections: A Common Summer Plight
Summer ear infections are very common, usually caused by contaminated water, leading to continuous ear pain. In severe cases, it can cause “influenza-like” symptoms such as fever and headache.
There are four forms of summer ear infections, classified based on the part of the auditory canal affected:
- Middle ear infection: when the inner part of the ear is involved
- Eustachian tube dysfunction (otitis media): common in children and affects the middle ear
- Outer ear infection (otitis externa): affects the outer ear canal, particularly the eardrum
- Meningitis: when the eardrum membrane becomes inflamed
Prevention is Key
To alleviate summer maladies, it’s crucial to adopt healthy habits. Staying hydrated continuously and incorporating non-sugared smoothies, teas, and juices into your diet can help. Adjusting your diet with a rich intake of mineral salts and mostly consisting of fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods can also prevent constipation.
Protect Yourself
Limiting direct sun exposure, preferring relaxation under an umbrella, and protecting yourself always with the use of sunscreen are essential precautions to take during the summer months.
Conclusion: Summer Maladies vs. Fun
Summer is not just a mix of annoying maladies but also a perfect opportunity to relax and have fun. By being aware of the potential dangers that come with it and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy your summer vacations while protecting yourself from summer maladies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are some common summer maladies?
- Common cold
- Sunburn
- Red patches on the skin
- Ear infection
- How can I prevent summer maladies?
- Stay hydrated continuously
- Incorporate non-sugared smoothies, teas, and juices into your diet
- Adjust your diet with a rich intake of mineral salts and mostly consisting of fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods
- What are some essential precautions to take during the summer months?
- Limit direct sun exposure
- Prefer relaxation under an umbrella
- Protect yourself always with the use of sunscreen