Five Most Common Causes For a Summertime Emergency Room Visit

It's no secret that warmer weather means more activities outdoors, more traveling and, in a lot of cases, more often preventable traumatic injuries.

We asked EvergreenHealth's Executive Medical Director of the Emergency & Urgent Care Services Kevin Hanson, MD, what are the five most common reasons you may end up at the emergency department.

We also provide you with some tips to prevent those injuries.

Fractures, Falls and Sports-Related Injuries

Broken bones and tears to ligaments or tendons are among the most common reasons for you to end up in the emergency room during the summer.

Perhaps you're taking advantage of warmer weather to get back into a sport you love or you and the family are heading on more hikes. It doesn't take much for a wrong step or fall to turn into a serious injury.

Here are some tips to avoid orthopedic-related injuries:

• Exercise regularly: If you find yourself more active during the summer months, try to maintain regular exercise all year round. Easy weight-bearing exercises can strengthen your muscles and bones, helping prevent injury.
• Always warm up and cool down properly: These are important parts to any activity you do, helping your body first prepare for any exercise and then transitioning it back to a resting state. This not only prevents injury but also helps your recovery.
• Wear the proper gear: Having the right equipment is essential to preventing injuries. Adam Sangeorzan, MD, with EvergreenHealth Orthopedics & Sports Medicine has tips on how to choose the right shoe. You should also consider additional protective gear like padding or a helmet depending on the activity or sport you're participating in.

Bicycle, Skateboard and Scooter Injuries

Similar to the first point, transportation-related injuries are especially common in the summertime. If you are hopping on a bike, skateboard or scooter, here are a few things you should always keep in mind:

• Always wear a helmet
• Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Consider wearing reflective gear to alert drivers

Motor Vehicle Collisions

Heading out for your summertime road trip? Or maybe you're just heading out for a hike. Every time you go anywhere in your vehicle, you should ensure everyone in the car is wearing a seatbelt.

It may seem like a no brainer, but injuries related to car collisions are still among the leading causes to land you in the emergency room.

Boating & Swimming Accidents

Western Washington is not short on plenty of scenic bodies of water that are perfect for escaping the summertime heat.

However, whether you are going swimming, boating or both, there are a number of safety steps you need to take to make sure your fun in the sun doesn't end up at the hospital.

Our comprehensive boating and safety guide has all of the tips you need before and during your water activity.

Chest & Abdominal Pain

Although you may be taking some time off this summer to enjoy the sunshine, your health is never on vacation. Chest and abdominal pain remain top reasons for visits to the emergency room year-round.

That's why you should continue booking your check-ups with your primary care provider and other medical appointments despite needing to navigate your travel schedule. You should especially take care if you are at risk for a heart attack, have a heart condition or any digestive issues.

Also, discuss with your primary care provider to make sure you are healthy enough to engage in any rigorous outdoor activities.