Curing the summer health blues

Written By Dr. Gary Herring, MD
Young girls on a nature hike

Q: Is there a cure for the summer health blues?

A: Summer in the Berks-Montgomery-Chester County region brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors—from hiking Nolde Forest, to biking the Schuykill River Trail, to attending local fairs, festivals, and backyard bashes. With the warm weather and longer days come some important health considerations. By practicing a few simple habits, you can stay safe and healthy while making the most of the season.

1. Sun Protection

Too much sun can lead to painful sunburns, premature aging, and increase your risk of skin cancer. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every two hours, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing to shield your skin.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can sneak up quickly in the summer heat. Drink water throughout the day, especially if you’re active or spending time outside. Avoid relying on sugary or alcoholic drinks, which can worsen dehydration. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently—your body will thank you.

3. Outdoor Safety

Whether you’re exploring a new park or grilling in the backyard, take precautions. Use insect repellent to guard against ticks and mosquitoes, wear appropriate footwear to prevent injuries, and keep a basic first aid kit nearby. Be especially mindful of children and older adults, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

By keeping these habits in mind, you can enjoy a safe and active summer in our beautiful corner of Pennsylvania. A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your health while making the most of the season. 

Dr. Gary Herring, MD

Dr. Gary A. Herring, M.D. is a board-certified family medicine physician and the founder, CEO, and Medical Director of A-Z Health Services in Elverson, Pennsylvania. With more than 25 years of hands-on clinical experience spanning family practice, emergency medicine, hospitalist care, occupational health, and outpatient surgery, Dr. Herring brings a rare breadth of expertise to every patient encounter.

Dr. Herring founded A-Z Health Services in 2018 to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care to the Berks and Chester County community—all under one roof. Whether you need a same-day urgent care visit, routine primary care, a pre-employment physical, chiropractic care, weight-loss guidance and support, or outpatient surgery consultation, Dr. Herring and his team are equipped to help.

Before establishing A-Z Health Services, Dr. Herring spent over a decade practicing emergency medicine at Level I and Level II trauma centers across Pennsylvania and Arizona, including serving as ER Director and EMS Director at Fort Defiance Indian Hospital. At this Level II Trauma Center, he led a team of more than 70 nurses and EMS personnel. He also served as Medical Director for Eagle Air Medical Transport, a fixed-wing air ambulance service providing 24/7 critical care transport for patients in Arizona, the Navajo Nation, and the Four Corners region

His dual foundation in family medicine and high-acuity emergency care means Dr. Herring is equally comfortable managing chronic conditions, acute injuries, and everything in between, making A-Z Health Services one of the most clinically capable urgent care and primary care practices in southeastern Pennsylvania.

https://www.a-zurgentcare.com/dr-gary-herring-md
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