Pediatric consultations for otitis, burns, and infections, as well as adult consultations for heat strokes and dehydration, increase «significantly» during the summer, according to Dr. Gurgen Harutyunyan, an emergency physician at Vithas Valencia 9 de Octubre Hospital.
Dr. Harutyunyan also warns of the increase in consultations for gastrointestinal problems during this time: «The consumption of contaminated food, especially during trips or outdoor meals, raises the incidence of food poisoning, diarrhea, and gastroenteritis, conditions that can also lead to dehydration if not managed properly.» Another common reason for emergency room visits is urinary tract infections, favored by high temperatures and inadequate fluid intake.
In addition, Michelle Guevara, coordinator of Emergencies at Vithas Valencia Consuelo Hospital, adds that consultations for otitis and insect bites are also recorded. «With the arrival of heat, winter illnesses such as colds or pneumonia are displaced, and those related to high temperatures and changes in routine and diet appear.»
Regarding this, Dr. Julio José Llerena, coordinator of the Emergency Service at Vithas Valencia Turia Hospital, emphasizes the need to adopt as primary preventive measures the daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen – with a minimum SPF of 30 – reapplied every two hours and especially after bathing or sweating.
He also highlights the importance of protecting oneself from the sun with hats, glasses, and appropriate clothing, as well as seeking shade during the hours of peak radiation, between 10:00 and 16:00. Proper hydration is another fundamental pillar: it is advisable to drink water regularly throughout the day and offer fluids frequently to children and the elderly. Dr. Llerena also insists on avoiding prolonged sun exposure or in very hot environments, wearing light and cool clothing, and prioritizing physical activities in the early morning or evening.
Recognizing symptoms of heat stroke – such as dizziness, nausea, or hot and dry skin – and acting quickly to seek medical help if necessary, «can prevent complications.» He also emphasizes the need to prevent insect bites with appropriate repellents and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, as well as take extra precautions with food safety, avoiding exposed or spoiled meals.
PEDIATRIC EMERGENCIES
Irina Martinez, supervisor of Emergencies at Vithas Aguas Vivas Hospital, explains that «during the summer, the main reason why children go to the emergency room is due to traumas and accidents, including falls, blows, fractures, sprains, wounds, or bruises.»
This is because during this time, children are more active outdoors – in parks, pools, beaches, biking, or practicing sports – increasing the risk of falls while playing, bicycle or rollerblade accidents, pool injuries such as slips or blows, and cuts while playing with sharp objects or on uneven surfaces.
The Pediatric Coordinator at Vithas Medimar Hospital, Dr. Carolina Sanz, also points out that «other common health problems in summer include sunburns and skin infections.» In this regard, she details that «long hours under the sun, without adequate protection, can lead to painful sunburns, while constant contact with surfaces and exposure to humid environments facilitate the appearance of skin infections.»
CHILDREN’S PREVENTION
In the case of external otitis, «it is recommended that children use earplugs while swimming and ensure they dry their ears well after being in the water, using a special spray to keep them free from moisture. Keeping the ears dry and clean can significantly reduce the risk of infections.»
Regarding skin infections, good hygiene is key. It is recommended to «wash children’s skin daily with water and soap, paying special attention to any wounds or abrasions. Applying an antiseptic to the wounds is essential to prevent infections and ensure quick healing.»
