6 TexasHealthHuguley.org Some injuries and illnesses are more common in the summer. So it’s good to be cautious when the days are longer and the temperatures soar, advises Barbra Jarmon, RN, MSN, Administrative Director of Nursing in Texas Health Huguley Hospital’s emergency department. Stay cool and hydrated. To help avoid dangerous dehydration and overheating, stay out of the midday sun, if possible, and rehydrate your body. “Drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily,” Barbra says. “You should drink even more if you’re outdoors or exercising. Avoid alcohol, which can dehydrate you. And check on your neighbors, especially the elderly ones and those who lack air-conditioning.” Protect your bones. Always wear the recommended safety gear for your sport, such as helmets and kneepads. Slather on sunscreen. “Use a high SPF (sun protection factor), and remember to reapply it every few hours if you swim or sweat,” Barbra says. “You should also wear a hat to shade your head and face.” Watch kiddos closely. Never leave them in the car while you run errands or leave them unsupervised around water. Should you or your family need emergency care this summer, Texas Health Huguley’s emergency and trauma center is open 24/7. They address everything from sunburns and snakebites to dehydration and injuries from falling. Enjoy a safe summer Care around the clock See how you can count on Texas Health Huguley when every second counts. Visit TexasHealthHuguley.org/ED. Caring for a sprained ankle Ankle sprains are a common sports injury. They can also occur when you walk on uneven ground or if you trip and fall. Sprain symptoms include: ● Bruising ● Swelling ● Instability of the ankle ● Pain at rest and with activity ● Tenderness to the touch If it is difficult to put weight on your ankle, seek medical attention. For mild sprains, treatment can be done at home. The RICE approach helps with this: R—Rest. Use crutches if putting weight on the injured foot is painful. I—Ice. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel every four hours for three days, but no more than 20 minutes each time. C—Compression. Wrap the sprained ankle with an elastic bandage. E—Elevate. Prop up the injured ankle at or above the level of your heart. A brace or wrap to immobilize the ankle is used for more serious injuries. Physical therapy can restore strength and range of motion around the joint. Surgical treatment is rare. To help prevent ankle sprains: ● Wear shoes that fit well and that are appropriate for your activity. ● Exercise to strengthen your muscles. Warm up before exercising. ● Avoid uneven surfaces. If you have any concerns about your ankle or another joint, make an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists at TexasHealthHuguley.org/Orthopedics.
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