06/06/2025
Common Summer Health Problems & How to Manage Them 🌿 ☀️🌦️
Summer is a time for holidays, sunshine, and outdoor activities — but it also brings certain health issues that are more common during warmer months. Many of these can be treated effectively at home or with over-the-counter remedies.
Here are some of the most common summer illnesses — plus useful tips on how to manage or prevent them:
🌸 Hay Fever (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis)
High pollen levels in late spring and summer can lead to sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes, and general discomfort.
What can help:
• Take regular non-drowsy antihistamines
• Use saline nasal sprays and anti-allergy eye drops
• Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities
• Keep windows closed in early mornings and evenings when pollen peaks
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🐝 Insect Bites & Stings
Whether you’re on a picnic or hiking, bites from mosquitoes, midges, or wasps can be an annoying part of summer.
What can help:
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Use antihistamine creams or tablets for itching
• Avoid scratching to prevent infection
• Clean the area with mild soap and water
Note: If a bite becomes red, swollen, painful, or shows signs of infection, it may need further assessment. This is one of the conditions covered under the NHS Pharmacy First service in England, where a pharmacist can offer treatment or referral if needed.
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🌞 Sunburn & Heat Rash
Even in the UK, the sun can cause damage. Sunburn is more than just redness — it can lead to peeling, soreness, and long-term skin issues. Heat rash, on the other hand, appears as small red itchy spots, especially in hot, humid weather.
To prevent and treat:
• Use SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply regularly
• Cool down with aloe vera or aftersun lotions
• Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure during midday hours
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🧳 Travel Health: Plan Ahead for a Healthy Trip
Travel is one of the highlights of summer — but it can also bring unexpected health issues if you’re not prepared. From upset stomachs to mosquito-borne illnesses, prevention is key.
Before you travel:
• Check whether your destination requires vaccinations or malaria prevention
• Consider travel vaccines such as hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, and yellow fever, depending on where you’re going
• Pack a basic travel health kit (rehydration sachets, motion sickness tablets, bite relief creams, plasters, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
• Take steps to prevent food poisoning and dehydration (e.g. bottled water, proper food hygiene)
🧬 Need travel vaccinations or advice?
🧳 Cornwell’s Travel Clinic offers personalised consultations and a full range of vaccines to help keep you safe abroad. Whether you’re planning a tropical holiday, a business trip, or a backpacking adventure, it’s a good idea to protect yourself against preventable diseases.
📌 Book your travel clinic appointment in advance to ensure you’re fully covered before departure.
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💧 Dehydration & Heat Exhaustion
Hot weather can lead to tiredness, dizziness, headaches, and other signs of dehydration — especially after physical activity or when travelling.
How to stay safe:
• Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Take breaks in shaded or cool areas
• Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can worsen dehydration
• Use oral rehydration solutions if symptoms appear
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🧠 Remember: Many minor illnesses can be prevented or easily managed with a little preparation and the right information. Whether you’re staying local or travelling abroad, taking care of your health helps you make the most of your summer.
