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<\/a><\/p>\nFlushing Hospital Medical Center wants to provide the community with the facts about some health concerns commonly associated with the warm weather months and offer tips on how to avoid them.<\/p>\n
Athlete\u2019s Foot<\/strong> \u2013 This fungus results in an itchy, burning rash on the feet. Athlete\u2019s foot is more prevalent during the summer months because it loves to spread in warm, wet surfaces, such as on poolside pavement and public showers. Doctors suggest wearing flip flops when in these environments to avoid becoming infected.<\/p>\n Heat Exhaustion<\/strong> \u2013 Temperatures during the summer months are higher than any other time of year. When our bodies are exposed to these hot conditions, we need to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. When we don\u2019t drink enough, we experience heat exhaustion, which is marked by weakness, nausea, vomiting, and fainting.<\/p>\n Food Poisoning<\/strong> \u2013 The increased heat and humidity in the summer are ideal breeding grounds for the growth of bacteria in our food.\u00a0 The next time, you are enjoying food at a picnic or outdoor barbeque, make sure that food is not left out in the heat too long. Also follow food temperature guidelines when grilling meat and poultry.<\/p>\n Skin Infections<\/strong> \u2013 Our skin is exposed more during the summer. This increases the risk of sustaining a cut that can develop into an infection. The most common place for this to occur is at the beach, when bacteria in the sand or water can enter a cut and lead to a potentially serious infection.\u00a0 If you get cut, be sure to wash it immediately with soap and water and monitor it for early signs of infection.<\/p>\n Ear Infection \/ Swimmer\u2019s Ear<\/strong> \u2013 Naturally, we spend more time swimming in pools or in the ocean during the summer than any other time of year. The additional moisture in the ear from spending time in the water can help facilitate the growth of bacteria, which can lead to an infection. To prevent excess moisture build-up, dry your ears thoroughly after swimming.<\/p>\n Flushing Hospital wants those in our community to enjoy everything that the next few months has to offer. By taking these extra precautions, you can only increase your chances of having a healthy, fun-filled summer.<\/p>\n All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer for many, and while summer brings with it a greater opportunity to spend more time outdoors, it also provides an increased risk for many health-related conditions. Flushing Hospital Medical Center wants to … Continue reading