Summer officially arrives on Thursday, with temperatures already in the 90s in parts of South Carolina. Extreme heat can cause everything from heat exhaustion to more dangerous heat stroke – but even a “normal” S.C. summer day brings with it an increase in unintentional injuries and accidents due to higher participation in outdoor activities like swimming, sports and yardwork.
Preparation and knowing what common summer injuries to be aware of can make all the difference in being able to safely enjoy the season:
- Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths and can exacerbate underlying illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health and asthma. It can also increase the risk of accidents.
If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves for gasping for breath, stop all activity and get into a cool area or into shade, especially if you become lightheaded, confused or faint. Heatstroke is a medical emergency with a high-case fatality rate.
Even if you’re simply enjoying a sunny day with family, take extra care. Pack water bottles and limit strenuous activity during peak heat hours. If it’s very hot, stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. Remember that young children and the elderly are more susceptible to heat-related health issues.
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Be careful when on the water. Drowning is a leading cause of preventable death, for both children and adults. Always supervise children around water and be aware of your limitations as a swimmer.
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Sports injuries also increase – on the land and on the water. Always warm up properly and wear appropriate protective gear, including the right footwear.
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Before undertaking yardwork, properly gear up by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants along with closetoed and sturdy shoes. Don’t
forget to apply sunscreen and insect repellent while taking plenty of breaks and staying hydrated. Take precautions to guard against sunburns, tick bites and mosquito bites, all of which may only seem inconvenient but can pose significant health risks for some people.
“Summer brings a surge in outdoor activities, and unfortunately, that can also lead to an increase in certain injuries,” said T.J. Daley, lead physician assistant at Prisma Health Orthopedic Convenient Care in Columbia. “We see a lot of water sports injuries this time of year, from hamstring and ankle sprains to knee injuries. These can happen not only during the activities themselves, but also just getting on and off boats or using boat ramps.”
If injured, a speedy recovery can make the difference between missing out and making the most of your summer. Dedicated to providing easy-access care, Prisma Health is continuing to expand
its urgent care network. There are currently 15 urgent care locations across the Upstate and Midlands with several more scheduled to open this year. Each center offers extended hours (8 a.m. – 8 p.m., seven days a week).
“Summer is for fun, not getting sidelined by minor injuries or illnesses,” said Stephanie Trowbridge, regional medical director for Prisma Health Urgent Care. “Urgent care can be a lifesaver for your vacation or summer plans. We offer convenient care for a wide range of nonlife-threatening conditions, so you can get the treatment you need and get back to enjoying your vacation or other summer outings.”
Prisma Health also offers virtual visits for added convenience that can be utilized if away on a trip or at home and are experiencing a minor ailment that doesn’t require an in-person visit. More information about virtual visits can be found at prismahealth.org
As extreme heat blankets South Carolina, the American Red Cross, is asking residents to take three steps to stay safe: slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors. The entire state is expected to see temperatures in the 90’s over the next several days.
Heat is more than uncomfortable; it can be deadly, especially for older adults, the very young, and those with chronic medical conditions. Last year, some 2,300 heatrelated deaths occurred. To help stay safe, the Red Cross recommends that people take three steps:
. Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities, including strenuous exercise. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day by scheduling tasks earlier or later. Hot cars can be deadly — never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.
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Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to plenty of fresh water and shade.
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Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or a public cooling center. Call 211 to find an open location. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and do not have air conditioning to make sure they are safe.
Unusually hot days and heat waves are both a natural part of weather patterns, however, since the 1960s, heat waves have become more frequent and intense and are lasting longer in the U.S. As the climate crisis worsens, 2023 was the hottest year on record, scientists warn that 2024 could break records for a second year in a row.
As heat waves become more common and last longer, heat-related deaths are also on the rise. Heat illness can be prevented, and the Red Cross recommends learning the warning signs and how to help so you can act fast.
Heat cramps are an early sign of trouble and include heavy sweating with muscle pains or spasms. To help, move the person to a cooler place and encourage them to
drink water or a sports drink. Get medical help if symptoms last longer than an hour or if the person has heart problems.
Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition signaled by heavy sweating; cool, pale and clammy skin; a fast or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; or a headache, dizziness or passing out. To help, move the person to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing, encourage them to sip water slowly. Use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Get medical help right away if symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour, or if they begin vomiting or acting confused.
Heat stroke is a deadly condition that requires immediate medical help. Symptoms include a high body temperature; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast or strong pulse; a headache or dizziness; or nausea, confusion and passing out. Call 911 right away if you think someone may have heat stroke. After calling 911, move the person to a cool place, and use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Do not give the person anything to drink.
Heat can make anyone ill, but older adults, the very young, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions are more at risk. People who work outdoors, have limited personal resources and live in places that lack green spaces are also at higher risk.
Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayedand the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps
