Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and outdoor fun—but it also comes with hidden health risks. Heatwaves, sun exposure, and dehydration can sneak up on you if you’re not careful. The good news? With a few smart habits, you can enjoy summer to the fullest while keeping your body safe.
1. Guard Your Skin Against the Sun
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves when outdoors for extended periods.
- Remember: UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
- Don’t wait until you’re thirsty—by then, you may already be dehydrated.
- Aim for 8–10 cups of water daily, and increase intake if you’re exercising or in the heat.
- Add water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges to your diet.
3. Watch Out for Heat-Related Illness
Heat exhaustion can cause dizziness, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. If ignored, it can progress to heat stroke, which is life-threatening. Seek shade, cool down, and rehydrate immediately if you notice symptoms.
4. Protect Your Heart
Hot weather puts extra strain on the cardiovascular system. Those with heart disease, high blood pressure, or on certain medications should take extra care in extreme heat.
Summer fun doesn’t have to mean health risks. By staying hydrated, protecting your skin, and listening to your body, you can keep yourself safe while enjoying the season.
Planning an active summer? Schedule your wellness visit with Dr. Kre to check your heart health, hydration needs, and preventive care before the season heats up.
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
