Spring is a time when many of us have a bit more pep in our step! Winter is over and summer is just around the corner. It’s time to put the snow boots away and dust off the flip-flops. But, with the advent of more sun and time outdoors, spring health risks can arise for many Americans. Let’s go over what to look out for in terms of your health so you can properly enjoy this wonderful time of year.
Spring Health Watch
Allergies
Allergies are usually the most common grievance many Americans have when it comes to spring. Typically, spring is the worst time of year for seasonal allergy sufferers due to a wide variety of plants and flowers starting to bloom. This in turn creates an abundance of pollen in the air.
As the air becomes drier from the warmer temperatures and increased sunlight, dust and other pollutants increase in the air also, leaving allergy sufferers more to contend with.
Classic symptoms allergy sufferers exhibit will be red and watery eyes, a runny nose and/or sneezing, coughing and/or breathing issues, throat dryness, headaches, and skin problems like redness and rashes. These vary in severity and are by no means uniform from person to person, but they make life just a little bit miserable when the weather is far from it!
These symptoms can typically be alleviated with over-the-counter medication, but regular visits to your doctor are important. The nature of your allergies and drug needs change over the years. So booking an appointment with your doctor prior to the spring may be your key to a healthier, fun-filled one.
Sunburn
Sunburn isn’t something we typically associate with spring; it’s more of a summer thing. But given many Americans have been predominantly inside since the fall and our skin hasn’t seen sunlight under layers of sweaters and coats, our skin (especially the face) can be very sensitive to sunlight.
While sunlight and being in the outdoors is very beneficial for our health, prolonged and direct exposure to the sun on our skin is not. Applying sunscreen, and re-applying it every 2 hours is important and will save your skin, literally.
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before leaving your house (to let it absorb properly) and remember that the sun’s rays are at their most intense from 10 AM until 4 PM. Always remember also, that just because it’s a cloudy day, it doesn’t mean there are no UV rays!
Ticks
Springtime is when tick eggs hatch. Tick bites, as many Americans know, can have potentially serious consequences, chiefly contracting Lyme disease. Ticks are often found in woodlands, un-weeded or poorly tended yards, and amongst reeds near beaches.
Wear long long-sleeved shirts, enclosed shoes, and pants if you’re in these types of areas and tuck the hems of clothes in. Repellents can be used for exposed skin (containing DEET) and ensure any exposed gear you’re using is treated with permethrin. After being outdoors ensure pets (especially dogs) are checked for ticks.
Drive safe
A final way to ensure good health this spring is to drive to your destinations safely. Spring weather can be temperamental – especially with wind and rain. Be careful on wet days as roads get slick when the rain mixes with other pollutants on the road. Watch for potholes, even on familiar roads as winter road salting may have created a few surprises. Getting your car serviced after a long hard winter and ready for summer usage is always a great idea too.
Looking for more help as you aim to take care of your health this spring? We’d love to talk with you. Get your free evaluation here.
