The summer’s warm weather and increased opportunity for outdoor activities presents challenges to stay healthy and injury-free this season. Doctors Express of South Plainfield offers the following information and tips to help.
Sports injuries: With the warmer weather, we may feel energized to participate in the outdoor sports we love. Before rushing out there, be sure to protect yourself by following the tips offered by Doctors Express Urgent Care:
Get a physical.
Stretch.A 10-minute jog and light stretching will prevent tearing of the muscles.
Hydrate. Drink at least 64 ounces of water a day.
Diet.Always eat breakfast and don’t eat a heavy meal less than three hours before participating in a sport.
Poison ivy and poison oak: These plants cause a very uncomfortable skin rash that is very itchy and red.The allergic reaction is known as contact dermatitis and is the most common skin problem produced by plants. The rash is caused by a sticky oil known as urushiol and is found on virtually every poison ivy and oak.The rash can only be spread through the oil and cannot be spread by touching the blisters on an infected person. You can get the rash from touching any part of the plant (including the leaves, flowers, stems, berries, roots, and even a dead plant) or by touching any item that has come into contact with the plant (including clothing, sports gear, pets or gardening tools). Itchiness and redness following initial contact with the plant as well as small red bumps and blisters that may leak fluid are common symptoms of poison ivy.
Sinusitis: The inflammation of the tissue within the sinuses is most often caused by a virus.The majority of cases go away on their own within a week. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, congestion and tenderness in the face.Your healthcare provider usually can diagnose acute sinusitis by noting your symptoms and examining your nose and face.A humidifier may help to alleviate congestion. Pain relievers can help reduce tenderness, and a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection.
Doctors Express Urgent Care in South Plainfield can diagnose and treat illnesses such as sinusitis, assist with a variety of sports-related injuries, and diagnose and treat poison ivy and poison oak.The state-ofthe art facility is open extended hours (including nights and weekends), walk-ins are welcome, most insurance plans are accepted, and they offer a full suite of inhouse services that includes digital x-rays and lab testing.All patients are treated by board-certified physicians and the wait times are comparatively short.Visit 907 Oak Tree Ave., Oak Park Commons (near the Super A&P) in South Plainfield or call 908-222-3500. Doctors Express is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.