With temperatures soaring across Southern California, staying safe in the heat is more important than ever. While spending time outdoors, at the beach, or by the pool is part of summer fun, excessive heat can quickly become dangerous if you’re not prepared. Knowing the signs of heat illness and how to prevent it can help keep you and your family safe all season long.
Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, especially young children, older adults, outdoor workers, athletes, and those with certain medical conditions. Fortunately, knowing the warning signs and taking a few simple precautions can help keep you and your family safe while enjoying everything summer has to offer.
Here’s what you should know about heat illness, swimmer’s ear, water safety, and staying healthy during the hottest months of the year.
Know the Signs of Heat Illness
When your body can no longer cool itself effectively, heat-related illnesses can develop quickly. Symptoms can range from mild dehydration and muscle cramps to life-threatening heat stroke.
Common signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness or fatigue
- Cool, pale, or clammy skin
- Fast heartbeat
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if someone develops:
- A body temperature of 103°F or higher
- Confusion or unusual behavior
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Hot, red skin
- Difficulty speaking or walking
If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Tips to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat
The best way to treat heat illness is to prevent it before it starts.
A few simple precautions can make a big difference:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear lightweight, light colored clothing.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes.
- Check on older family members and neighbors during periods of extreme heat.
If you begin feeling dizzy, weak, or overheated, move to a cool place, drink water, and rest. If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve, seek medical care.
Don’t Let Swimmer’s Ear Ruin Your Summer
Swimming is one of the best ways to cool off during a heat wave, but spending time in the water can sometimes lead to swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear canal caused by trapped moisture.
Common symptoms include:
- Ear pain, especially when touching the ear
- Itching inside the ear
- Redness or swelling
- Drainage from the ear
- Muffled hearing
To help prevent swimmer’s ear:
- Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming.
- Tilt your head to allow water to drain.
- Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into your ears.
- Wear earplugs if you’re prone to recurring infections.
If ear pain persists or becomes severe, it’s important to be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Early treatment can help relieve discomfort and prevent the infection from worsening.
Practice Water Safety All Summer Long
Whether you’re heading to the beach, the pool, or the lake, water safety should always be a priority.
Remember to:
- Never leave children unattended near water.
- Designate a responsible adult to actively supervise swimmers.
- Wear properly fitted life jackets when appropriate.
- Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills.
- Stay hydrated, even while swimming.
A few simple precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure everyone enjoys a safe day in the water.
Breastfeeding During Hot Weather
World Breastfeeding Week, observed during the first week of August, is a reminder that new mothers also need extra care during the summer months.
Breastfeeding mothers may become dehydrated more quickly during periods of extreme heat, making it especially important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
It’s also important to watch for signs of mastitis, which may include:
- Breast pain
- Redness or warmth
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms
If you experience these symptoms, prompt evaluation and treatment can help you recover more quickly and continue breastfeeding comfortably.
When Should You Visit Urgent Care?
While many summer health concerns can be managed with rest and hydration, some situations require medical attention.
Consider visiting Marque Urgent Care if you experience:
- Symptoms of heat exhaustion that aren’t improving
- Persistent dizziness or dehydration
- Ear pain after swimming
- Signs of an ear infection
- Breastfeeding-related concerns such as mastitis
- Minor injuries or illnesses that occur during summer activities
Our experienced providers are here to help you get back to enjoying your summer as quickly as possible.
Summer is meant for making memories with family and friends—not unexpected illnesses or injuries. By staying hydrated, recognizing the warning signs of heat illness, practicing water safety, and addressing health concerns early, you can enjoy everything the season has to offer with greater peace of mind.
Whether you’re dealing with heat exhaustion, swimmer’s ear, or another unexpected health concern, Marque Urgent Care is here with convenient walk-in care, extended hours, and compassionate providers ready to help when you need us most.
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