Connect with us

Health

Caution With Going Outdoors! Health Hazards to Watch Out For When Outdoors

Published

on

Sun cream

It is undeniable that outdoor adventures contribute greatly to our health and wellbeing. Outdoor activities have numerous benefits, whether those are physical and psychological. No matter how we enjoy outdoor adventures, risks are still present, and these are the things we should look out for, especially when we are in the wilderness.

Prevention is Better

Prevention and preparation are key elements to overcoming emergency situations that may happen in the wild. We can still make the most out of outdoor adventures so long as we remember to prepare. Knowledge about the potential emergencies that one can experience outdoors and how these can be managed is an important aspect of survival.

Emergency Situations Outdoors

Who wouldn’t be attracted to the simple beauty of nature? A simple trip to a mountain peak, a walk in a park, a hike, or an adventure at sea, you name it, when nature is involved, it becomes a perfect getaway. Nature and wilderness provide us with a way to relax and unwind. But we have to remember that out there, we are vulnerable. A lot of things can happen and some of these things may threaten our health and wellbeing. Here are just some of the common emergency situations one can experience outdoors.

Hypothermia

This is a condition where one’s core body temperature drops fatally below the normal (temperature below 36.5 degrees Celsius). This type of emergency can occur at high altitudes and forests, where temperatures can drop at below freezing levels at night. It is not advisable for people to stay long in these areas at nighttime as the temperature significantly drops during this period. Wet or even damp clothing can cause hypothermia, and so outdoor enthusiasts are advised to wear the proper gear and apparel to prevent this. To get the gears you need for any outdoor adventures, you can visit sites like Moosejaw or Backcountry. These are shops from where you can purchase the proper gear and outdoor apparel. If it’s money you’re worried about, you can use the Moosejaw coupon or Backcountry coupon for discounts.

Dehydration

Is a condition where there is a rapid loss of water from the body. Dehydration can happen during almost any activity involving the outdoors. It is a risk for outdoor enthusiasts who hike in dry, hot areas such as the Grand Canyon. To prevent this, hikers are advised to bring two liters of water per day. When hiking under extremely hot conditions (summertime or when hiking in dry, arid areas), one liter per hour is advised.

Altitude Sickness

Mountain climbers, as well as hikers, are at risk for this condition. Altitude sickness is a condition that occurs when hikers or climbers rapidly climb an elevation beyond 2,500 meters (8,000 feet). Altitude sickness may lead to HAPE or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema, or High Altitude Cerebral Edema and these conditions are life-threatening. Altitude sickness can be managed by acclimatization, which usually takes several days and involves an intake of drugs such as Diamox.

Sprains and Strains

Hikers, mountaineers, bikers, skiers, and the like, are at risk for sprains and strains, two of the most common injuries experienced by active outdoorsy people. Sprains and strains can range from mild ones to incapacitating ones. Wearing appropriate boots or footwear is one way to prevent sprains and strains. Having a first aid kit on hand is also a necessity in managing these injuries. Sprains and strains can be debilitating. They can leave an adventurer stranded in the wilderness. It is therefore advised to bring a cell phone or a communication device in case such emergencies happen. It also advisable to go on a trip in a group, so the other members can be of aid to an injured member if it so occurs.