Faith Regional Health Services | living WELL | Spring 2021

FRHS.ORG 11 faithregional.zipnosis.com windows. You can buy them online or at hard- ware stores. Also, try to keep furniture away from windows to discourage kids from climbing near windows. Make helmets a priority Many kids practically live on their bikes during the summer. Before yours hop on theirs, make sure they’re wearing a helmet. (The same advice applies to you.) Helmets help reduce the risk of head injury—such as concussion and other traumatic brain injuries—and of death from bicycle crashes. Helmets are also a good idea when riding a horse or skateboard, batting or running bases in baseball or softball, or using in-line skates. Watch out for heatstroke As the temperature rises, so does the risk of a heat-related illness. The most serious one is heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Signs and symptoms include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a rapid and strong pulse; and possible uncon- sciousness. Call 911 immediately if you think someone has heatstroke. Move the person to a cooler environment, and try to bring his or her temperature down with cool cloths or a bath. Do not give the person fluids. Know the signs of anaphylaxis This is a potentially deadly allergic reac- tion. The most common triggers are foods, insect stings, medications and latex. Signs and symp- toms may include a red rash (usually itchy) with hives or welts; swelling in the throat or other areas of the body; wheezing; and trouble breath- ing or swallowing. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention, including an injection of the drug epinephrine and a trip to the hospital emergency department. Available 24/7 Emergency room You should call 911 or go to the emergency room for life- threatening emergencies, such as: S evere chest pain or pressure. S udden or severe pain. V aginal bleeding during pregnancy. S hortness of breath or difficulty breathing. S lurred speech or con- fused mental state. Uncontrolled, severe bleeding. C oughing and vomiting blood. Dizziness or blindness. Urgent care For other medical issues that are not life-threatening, a quick visit to urgent care will not only save you money and time, but it will help keep the emergency room team free to perform lifesaving procedures. Examples of when to go to urgent care include: A nimal bites (that are not toxic or severe). Bladder infections. Ear infections. S prains, strains or other minor injuries. Cold and flu. C oughs and sore throats. Sinus problems. Minor fevers. Rashes. Virtual Visit Faith Regional also offers a Virtual Visit option via your smartphone or computer. Connect with a local medical provider online for minor health care needs, including: B ladder or urinary tract infections. Pink eye. Minor burns. Insect bites. Medication refills. C old and flu. Smoking cessation. Allergies. Rashes. Heartburn. Travel medication. Right care, right now: Know where to go Virtual Visit