Summer is one of the most exciting times of the year, filled with sunshine, vacations, beach trips, barbecues, and time spent with loved ones. However, the warmer months also bring a higher risk of health concerns such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, insect bites, sunburn, and sports-related injuries. While most of these issues are minor, they can quickly become serious if not treated promptly. That’s why having a trusted urgent care center close by is essential.
At Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD, we understand the unique health risks that come with summer. Our team is ready to treat the most common seasonal conditions, ensuring you and your family stay safe and healthy all summer long. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the top seven summer illnesses and injuries we treat, how to prevent them, and what to do if they occur. You’ll also find answers to frequently asked questions, details about what to expect during a visit, and reasons why Uni Urgent Care should be your go-to choice.
Don’t let a minor emergency ruin your summer fun. With fast, reliable care and a compassionate team, Uni Urgent Care in Westminster is here for you. Walk in today—no appointment necessary!
What They Are
Heat exhaustion is one of the most common and dangerous summer-related health issues, especially during periods of high temperatures and humidity. It occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to heat and inadequate hydration. Early signs include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. These symptoms are the body’s way of signaling that it’s struggling to cool itself down.
If heat exhaustion is not treated promptly, it can progress to heatstroke, a serious and potentially fatal condition. Heatstroke is characterized by a body temperature of 104°F or higher, confusion, rapid pulse, flushed skin, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness. Unlike heat exhaustion, sweating may stop during heatstroke, which further impairs the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
To prevent heat exhaustion, stay hydrated, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, take frequent breaks in the shade, and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler place immediately, drink fluids, and apply cool compresses.
At Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD, our medical team is equipped to treat heat-related illnesses quickly and effectively. Don’t wait—visit us at the first sign of trouble.
How We Diagnose & Treat
At our urgent care, we measure vital signs, check body temperature, assess hydration, and evaluate symptoms. Treatment may involve:
Cooling blankets or misting fans
Oral or IV hydration
Rest in a cool environment
Hospital transfer if heatstroke is suspected
Prevention Tips
Hydrate regularly, avoid peak sun hours (11 a.m.–4 p.m.), wear lightweight clothing, and take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
Understanding Dehydration
Dehydration is a serious summer health risk that happens when your body loses more fluids than it takes in. Hot weather and outdoor activity increase fluid loss through sweat, and without proper hydration, symptoms like dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, and dark urine can occur. Left untreated, dehydration can lead to rapid heartbeat, confusion, or even life-threatening complications. To stay safe, drink water regularly—especially during exercise or sun exposure—and avoid alcohol or caffeine. At Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD, we offer fast evaluation and IV fluid treatment for dehydration. Walk in today for expert care and quick relief.
Diagnosis & Treatment
We monitor your vitals, check electrolyte panels, and assess mental status. Treatment options include:
Oral rehydration solutions (e.g., electrolyte drinks)
Intravenous fluids for severe cases
Monitoring until symptoms improve
Stay Hydrated
Drink water or sports drinks before, during, and after outdoor activity. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.
Seasonal Allergies & Insect Encounters
Insects like bees, mosquitoes, ticks, and wasps become more active during the summer months, raising the risk of bites and stings for people spending time outdoors. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, hiking through the woods, or lounging in your backyard, these pests can pose a health threat. Most bites and stings are mild, causing redness, swelling, itching, or irritation. However, in some cases, reactions can be much more severe.
For individuals with insect allergies, even a single sting or bite can trigger a serious allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This life-threatening condition may involve symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, rapid heartbeat, or dizziness, and requires immediate medical attention. Mosquito bites can also lead to infections or diseases, and ticks are known to transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses if not promptly and properly removed.
To reduce your risk, wear insect repellent, cover exposed skin with long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas, and check for ticks after being outdoors. If you’re stung or bitten and develop unusual symptoms, don’t wait.
Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD offers fast evaluation and treatment for insect bites and stings, including allergic reactions. Walk in anytime for expert care.
What We Do
After evaluating vitals and examining the affected area, we treat with:
Antihistamines and corticosteroids
Cold packs and anti-itch creams
EpiPen administration in cases of severe allergic response
Tips to Avoid Trouble
Wear insect repellent, long sleeves and pants during dusk/dawn, and avoid known high-risk areas. If allergic, carry an EpiPen and inform those around you.
Danger from the Sun
Sunburn might seem minor, but it can quickly become serious if not treated properly. Prolonged sun exposure without protection can lead to red, painful, and blistered skin, often followed by peeling and discomfort. Severe cases may cause fever, chills, dehydration, and even infection. Children and fair-skinned individuals are especially at risk. To prevent sunburn, use SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid peak sunlight hours. If you’re dealing with severe sunburn symptoms, Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD offers prompt relief with soothing treatments, hydration, and infection care. No appointment needed—walk in for fast, compassionate treatment today.
Treatment
We help alleviate pain and treat damaged skin through:
Topical steroids and pain relievers
Cool compresses and aloe vera gels
Antibiotics for infected or blistered wounds
Sun Safety
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours, wear protective clothing and hats, and stay shielded during peak UV times.
Outdoor Play Risks
Summer is the season of outdoor fun—playgrounds, bike rides, hikes, and camping adventures. But with all the extra activity comes a greater risk of minor injuries like falls, cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Children are especially prone to these mishaps as they run, climb, and explore, but adults aren’t immune either, especially during sports, yard work, or hiking on uneven terrain.
Most summer scrapes are minor and can be treated at home with basic first aid: cleaning the wound, applying an antibiotic ointment, and covering it with a clean bandage. However, some injuries require medical attention. Deeper cuts, wounds that won’t stop bleeding, or scrapes that show signs of infection—such as redness, swelling, warmth, or pus—should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Falls can also lead to sprains, fractures, or head injuries, especially if not treated promptly.
To reduce the risk of injury, wear appropriate gear during physical activities, keep play areas safe, and stay alert during hikes and outdoor events. Even with the best precautions, accidents happen.
At Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD, we’re ready to treat minor injuries quickly and compassionately. From cuts and sprains to wound care and tetanus shots, we’ve got you covered—no appointment needed.
Urgent Care Interventions
We thoroughly clean wounds, evaluate for foreign matter, and address as needed:
Debridement and irrigation
Sutures or staples for deep wounds
Tetanus boosters, if applicable
Prescriptions for infection prevention
Prevention Pointers
Wear sturdy shoes, use safety gear like helmets and wrist guards, and ensure first-aid kits are on-hand.
Common During Play or Sports
Summer activities like volleyball, biking, and swimming are fun but can lead to joint injuries such as sprains, strains, or even fractures. Twisting, falling, or overuse can damage muscles and ligaments, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. If not properly treated, these injuries can worsen and delay recovery. It’s essential to seek medical care if you experience joint pain or difficulty walking. At Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD, we provide expert evaluation and treatment for sports and activity-related injuries. From diagnostics to therapy recommendations, we’re here to help you heal quickly. No appointment needed—walk in today for fast care.
Urgent Care Approach
Our protocol includes history, physical exam, and X-ray to evaluate damage and rule out fractures. Treatment may involve:
RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for sprains and strains
Splinting or casting for stable fractures
Pain relief, minor casting, walking boots
Referral to orthopedics if meticulous care is needed
Safety First
Warm up properly, use good technique, wear supportive footwear, and avoid overexertion.
Risks from Pools, Lakes & Oceans
While swimming is a favorite summer pastime, spending time in chlorinated pools, lakes, or oceans can expose you to a range of health issues. Prolonged exposure to water—especially if it’s not properly treated or if it contains bacteria—can lead to infections that disrupt your summer plans.
One of the most common concerns is swimmer’s ear, a painful outer ear infection caused when water becomes trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment where bacteria thrive. Symptoms include itching, redness, pain, and even temporary hearing loss. Prompt treatment is necessary to avoid complications.
In addition, swallowing contaminated water—especially from natural bodies like lakes or rivers—can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, such as diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. Even pools, if not properly maintained, may harbor germs like E. coli or Cryptosporidium. Skin rashes, eye irritation, and other mild infections can also develop after time spent in water.
To reduce your risk, avoid swimming with open wounds, use swim ear plugs, shower before and after swimming, and encourage kids to avoid swallowing water.
If symptoms appear after swimming, Uni Urgent Care in Westminster, MD can help. Our team provides fast diagnosis and treatment for ear infections, rashes, and stomach illnesses—walk in anytime for expert care.
Diagnosing at Urgent Care
We assess symptoms, perform ear exams, and collect stool or urine tests if needed. Treatments include:
Antibiotics or antifungals
Topical creams and ear drops
Hydration and monitoring for improvement
Stay Safe in the Water
Shower before and after swimming, avoid swallowing pool water, and treat recurrent symptoms promptly.
Walk-In Welcome & Fast Evaluation: No appointment required.
On-Site Diagnostic Tools: X-ray machines, lab tests, IV fluids, EKG.
Expert Medical Staff: Skilled practitioners trained in acute, non-emergency care.
Extended Hours: Open evenings and weekends, ideal for seasonal schedules.
What should I do for a mild sunburn at home?
Clean the area, apply aloe or hydrocortisone, stay hydrated, and prevent further UV exposure. For blistering or fever, visit urgent care.
How can I tell if joint pain is serious?
Serious pain that causes immobility, intense swelling, or bone deformity after falls should be evaluated quickly.
Does urgent care treat dehydration without an ER visit?
Yes—for moderate dehydration we offer oral or IV fluids and electrolyte guidance. Severe dehydration with dizziness, confusion, or fainting may require ER.
Are insect bites contagious or infectious?
Most bites are not contagious but can become infected if scratched or neglected. Monitor swelling/redness and seek treatment if it spreads or worsens.
Is urgent care appropriate for children?
Absolutely — all ages are welcome. Pediatric injuries or illnesses like sunburn, sprains, or water-related issues are routinely handled.
Do you accept insurance?
Uni Urgent Care works with most major insurances and accommodates self-pay patients with transparent fees.
Summer should be a time of fun, laughter, and relaxation—not medical emergencies. When minor illnesses or injuries happen, being prepared is key. Heat-related issues, sunburn, insect bites, dehydration, cuts, sprains, and water-borne infections are all treatable at urgent care—with minimal disruption to your summer plans.
Prompt care helps prevent complications, shorten recovery, and keep your family enjoying the season worry-free.
This summer, if you or a loved one experiences heat stress, sprains, bug bites, or any other sudden discomfort, don’t let it ruin your plans. Visit Uni Urgent Care today for fast, expert treatment and advice.
📍 Find a location near you: https://uniurgentcare.com
📞 Call your local UNI center to check hours or ask about services. (410) 751-7480
🚶♂️ Walk-ins always welcome—no appointment needed!
We’re here to help you stay safe and healthy all summer long!
