Q&A with Dr. Kiskila: Summer Health Questions We Hear All the Time

Summer activities, travel, heat, and busy schedules can sometimes lead to unexpected illnesses and injuries. We asked Dr. Nathan Kiskila to answer a few common questions patients ask this time of year.

Question: Why do people tend to feel more run-down during summer, even when they’re more active?
Dr. Kiskila: Summer schedules can actually be surprisingly exhausting. Between travel, camps, sports, heat exposure, and staying out later, people often get less rest and become mildly dehydrated without realizing it. That combination can weaken your immune system and leave you feeling fatigued or more susceptible to illness.

Question: What’s one summer symptom people tend to ignore for too long?
Dr. Kiskila: Persistent dizziness, especially during hot weather. Many people assume they just need water, but dizziness can sometimes signal dehydration, heat exhaustion, low blood sugar, infections, or other medical concerns that should be evaluated.

Question: Are there any common mistakes families make during summer activities?
Dr. Kiskila: One of the biggest is underestimating how quickly kids can become dehydrated or overheated, especially during sports or long days outside. Another is waiting too long to clean and monitor cuts, scrapes, or bug bites, which can sometimes lead to infection.

Question: How can parents tell if a child’s illness needs medical attention?
Dr. Kiskila: If a child has difficulty breathing, ongoing fever, signs of dehydration, unusual fatigue, worsening pain, or symptoms that simply are not improving, it’s a good idea to seek care. Parents know their children best, and if something feels off, it’s okay to trust that instinct.

Question: What’s your biggest summer health advice overall?
Dr. Kiskila: Stay ahead of issues before they become bigger problems. Hydrate consistently, protect yourself from excessive heat and sun exposure, listen to your body, and don’t ignore symptoms that persist longer than expected.

From summer illnesses and dehydration to minor injuries and everyday health concerns, Marque Urgent Care is here to help seven days a week with walk-in and virtual care options available.