These are the most common diseases in summer

The characteristics of high temperature, humidity, travel, and outdoor activities in summer are conducive to the increase of some diseases. On Newtral.es, we spoke to family doctor Dr. Lorenzo Armenteros, spokesperson for the Spanish Society of General and Family Physicians (SEMG), who explains what these diseases are, why they are more common in summer and how to prevent and treat them. stop them.

The most common infections are gastroenteritis, otitis media, and cystitis

this acute gastroenteritis This is inflammation of the digestive system. Its most common symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. As Dr. Amenteros explained, “due to the warmer temperatures, poor food preservation is more common in summer.”

Gastroenteritis can be caused by toxins present in food or poor quality food. In both cases, symptoms included nausea, abdominal pain, cramps, and diarrhea. However, infections caused by spoiled food tend to be more serious.

A SEMG spokesperson explained that treatment of the disease is usually symptomatic, with medications to relieve the patient’s symptoms, and hydration is recommended for susceptible patients.

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To prevent gastroenteritis in summer, it is recommended to preserve food, store it in the refrigerator as much as possible, and consume perishable products immediately.

Exposure to water can aggravate otitis media and cystitis

The Spanish Society of Internal Medicine explains otitis It consists of inflammation in any of the three parts of the ear (outer, inner, or middle ear). Frequent exposure to water during the summer increases the risk of contracting this infection.

Dr. Lorenzo Almenteros explains, “A buildup of water in the ear canal can cause microbes to stay in the ear canal longer, causing infection.” The main symptom is sharp, focused pain in the affected ear.

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The main protective mechanism is to keep the ear canal dry and not introduce foreign objects such as cotton swabs into it. If it’s a recurring infection, it’s best to use a stopper and wear a swimming cap to protect yourself from the water.

this Cystitis This is a urinary tract infection that primarily affects women. Various factors can contribute to cystitis, such as constipation, wearing tight underwear, hormonal changes, or cold.

A SEMG spokesperson said the main reason this infection is more common in summer is exposure to water and moisture from wet clothing. The most common symptoms of this infection are pain, urgency, itching in the private parts, and a feeling of tension.

To reduce your risk of cystitis, Amenteros recommends avoiding prolonged contact with wet bathing suits and not washing vigorously with soap more than once a day. Treatment for cystitis requires oral antibiotics and staying well hydrated.

Bites from some insects can lead to more serious illness

this bite Insects, especially mosquitoes, bees and wasps are more common in summer due to good weather, humidity and being outdoors. The Quirón Salud Medical Center explains that most symptoms are skin in nature and can be treated with anti-inflammatory and antihistamines.

Amenteros recommends using insect repellent to avoid allergic reactions that could lead to complications and more serious illness. It’s also important to be more careful in the early morning and last hours of the afternoon, when bites occur the most.

SEMG also points out the importance of vaccinations to avoid diseases typical of endemic areas that may occur in summer. “Vaccination, use of insect repellent and wearing appropriate skin-covering clothing are very important,” a spokesman for the company said.

Avoiding peak sun hours is essential to reduce sunburn

As good weather arrives and temperatures rise, people often experience more sun exposure and can therefore be affected. sunburn. The Association of Family and Community Medicine clarified that while sun exposure is beneficial to health, it is necessary to take precautionary measures to protect health, as UV rays can cause burns, blemishes and in some cases skin cancer.

Dr. Lorenzo Armenteros notes that using sunscreen is essential to avoid sunburn, clarifying that “protection needs to be renewed every time you get out of the water and use a high-amplifier sunscreen.”

To avoid these burns it is also recommended to avoid exposure between 12:00 and 17:00. Due to the position of the sun, the light is more direct and the radiation is greater at this time. Wearing light clothing that covers the skin and accessories such as a hat and sunglasses can help avoid burns.

After a sunburn, it is recommended to use moisturizer on the affected area, take pain relievers if painful and stay hydrated. In case of blisters or more severe burns, it is recommended to see a doctor.