July 24, 2025, Press Release from Mercy Health:
LIMA, Ohio – As the temperatures rise and more people spend time outdoors enjoying the summer sun, the number of injuries and health concerns that often require medical attention seem to increase as well.
“Summer brings a noticeable uptick in visits, as people spend more time outdoors and health risks naturally increase,” said Tawnya Neal, APRN-CNP, who treats Mercy Health urgent care facilities in Lima. “Whether it’s dehydration, sunburn, minor injuries, or sports-related strains, we see a wide range of concerns this time of year. That’s exactly why we have urgent care clinics – to provide quick, convenient care so families can get back to enjoying their summer.”
Urgent care clinics play a vital role in providing timely, effective care for common summer health issues, including:
Heat-Related Illnesses
With temperatures soaring, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are on the rise. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, rapid pulse, and confusion. Walk-in care centers are equipped to assess and treat these conditions, helping patients cool down, rehydrate, and recover before symptoms worsen.
Injuries from Outdoor Activities
From sports injuries to accidents during hiking, swimming, and other outdoor adventures, injuries are inevitable during the summer months. Sprains, fractures, cuts, and burns are common injuries that walk-in care facilities can quickly treat through the use of X-rays, wound care, splinting, and other medical interventions.
Allergies and Asthma Attacks
Seasonal allergies and asthma flare-ups are a frequent concern in the summer. Pollen, mold, and increased air pollution can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory distress. Walk-in clinics can help with antihistamines, inhalers, and other treatments to manage symptoms and improve breathing.
Sunburns and Skin Conditions
Long hours in the sun can lead to sunburns, blisters, and other skin conditions, some of which may require medical treatment. Walk-in care centers provide specialized care for severe sunburns, skin infections, and allergic reactions to sunscreen or bug repellents, helping to minimize discomfort and prevent long-term damage.
Dehydration and Gastrointestinal Issues
Excessive heat, intense physical activity, and changes in diet or water consumption can lead to dehydration and gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Walk-in care centers can provide fluids, electrolytes, and treatments to restore hydration, as well as address other digestive issues that might arise.
Bug Bites and Stings
Bug bites and stings, especially from ticks, mosquitoes, and bees, are common during the summer. Some may cause allergic reactions, infection, or transmission of diseases like Lyme disease. Walk-in clinics are well-equipped to handle these bites, administer necessary treatments, and provide guidance on prevention.
Swimming-Related Infections
Summer activities in lakes, pools, and beaches can expose swimmers to infections like swimmer’s ear or bacterial skin infections. Walk-in care services can offer prompt diagnosis and treatment for these conditions, including antibiotics or ear drops.
Urgent care centers are often the best choice for treating common summer health concerns because they offer quick, affordable, and convenient medical care without the need for an appointment. For more severe health issues or emergencies, emergency services provide fast, life-saving intervention when every second counts.
By seeking care at the right time and place, individuals can recover faster and enjoy a safe, healthy summer. Mercy Health is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible medical care when and where it’s needed most. To find out more about our local urgent care clinics or the emergency services available at Mercy Health, visit mercy.com.
