Getting outside and enjoying nature is one of the most beautiful parts of spring. The snow is finally melting and everyone is trying to enjoy the great outdoors. It is always a good idea to be prepared for anything that could come up when getting outside and here are a few of the most popular injuries seen in urgent care facilities.
Sprains, strains, and breaks, are one of the most common injuries people end up with when hiking, biking, or enjoying sporting activities. Whether you simply misjudge a step and slip, fall off a steep embankment or trip over a rock you can wind up with a sprain or a break quite easily. If you happen to find yourself in this predicament the best thing you can do is keep your weight off of the injury until you are able to see a medical professional in an urgent care centre. The best way to ensure you won’t be stranded while hiking, walking, or biking is to enjoy activities with another person. Not only is it more fun to be together while enjoying these activities but if someone gets injured they won’t be stuck and alone. If you don’t have anyone to go with you ensure you have a way to communicate with others when you are out. Charge your phone and carry a solar charger for emergencies. This is especially important if you enjoy listening to music on your phone while you are out. The last thing you want to have is a dead phone after an incident occurs because you were rocking out on your hike. Always tell someone where you are going when you head out just in case so people know where to look for you in case you don’t come home. If you ever knocked yourself out for an extended period of time from a slip or fall you could be stuck. Having a plan that others know gives them a jump point for their search to ensure you are found.
Skin irritations are a common part of nature as well and they can be caused from many different environmental situations. Poison Ivy can be an extremely painful and cause a severe rash that requires medical attention. Nearly 85% of Americans are allergic to poison ivy creating an even more painful reaction. There are a number of other plants and parts of nature that can create skin irritations that may require a trip to urgent care. Bug bites and stings can cause severe pain and some people are allergic to certain bites as well creating bigger problems. If you happen to have any allergies you should always carry the necessary medications on you to ensure you don’t have any complications. Taking an allergy medication before heading out can help to control any reaction you may have to the sun, bites, stings, pollen and much more. If you have a severe allergy that requires an epipen always ensure you carry it with you along with instructions on how to use it and what creates the reaction just in case.
Enjoying the outdoors during spring can be a blast but always ensure you are prepared for anything. Pack water, snacks, flashlight, matches, cell phone, solar charger, and other small items that could be the difference between life and death when hiking, walking, biking and getting out into the wild.