Camping has its downsides. They’re not enough to keep committed campers from the outdoors, but they can put a damper on a camping trip. Some of the most common problems you’ll face in the outdoors are injuries and illness. Today we’re taking a look at how to treat and prevent some of these issues. Read on for a summer survival guide for common outdoor injuries and ailments.
Mosquito Bites
Mosquitoes might be among nature’s tiniest pests, but they’re also the most notorious. Swarms of these tiny bugs can quickly turn a camping trip from good to bad. To complicate matters, not all people respond to mosquito bites in the same way. For most people, a mosquito bite is just a small (but annoying) bump with a short-term itch. But for people who are allergic to mosquitoes, they can produce large welts that itch for an uncomfortably long time. (There’s actually a name for this, it’s called skeeter syndrome.)
If you develop a fever after getting mosquito bites, it’s best to seek medical attention. If you have just ordinary mosquito bites however, there are a few remedies. If possible, apply ice to the bite to relieve the inflammation and itching. Or apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to the bites. And no matter what, try not to scratch mosquito bites. It can break open the skin and lead to an infection.
Treatment: Benadryl Cooling Anti-Itch Gel
- 3.5-ounce tube of Benadryl Extra-Strength Anti-Itch Gel temporarily relieves pain and itching associated with insect bites, minor burns, sunburn, minor skin irritations, minor cuts, scrapes and rashes due to poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac
- Topical analgesic gel, works when you need it most and provides cooling, anti-itch relief from most minor pains and outdoor itches associated with insect bites, sunburn, scrapes, minor skin irritations, burns and minor cuts
- The cooling gel provides the relief of pain and itching associated with sunburn, relieves outdoor itches associated with poison ivy, insect bites and more and dries the oozing and weeping of poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac
- Cooling gel that provides relief from most outdoor itches contains 2% of the topical analgesic pain reliever diphenhydramine hydrochloride that works to relieve itches and minor pains on the skin and works when you need it most
- Intended for use by those ages 2 and up, soothing gel offers itch relief for kids and adults alike and is great to keep on hand for relief during outdoor activities such as camping, hiking or taking a walk with the family
Prevention: Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent
- One 6oz can of Coleman SkinSmart DEET Free Insect Repellent
- DEET free bug spray provides complete protection against mosquitoes and ticks
- DEET free insect repellent is also a tick repellent and works for up to 8 hours
- Family-friendly DEET free insect repellent for skin that is non-greasy and fast-drying for comfortable use
- DEET free bug spray comes in a rust-resistant aluminum can with a twist locking cap for easy use
Insect Stings
Bees, wasps, and hornets all have the ability to sting. If you get stung, most of the time it’ll be painful but not dangerous. About 3 to 7.5% of people will have a severe allergic reaction to a sting. If that happens, call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, and swelling of the throat.
If you’re like most people and don’t have an allergic reaction, stings can usually be taken care of at home. Bees (not wasps) leave their stingers in the skin when they sting. Try to remove the stinger if possible. Then apply a cold compress to the area. Hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, and over-the-counter pain relievers can all help reduce the pain and swelling.
Treatment: Sting-Kill Anesthetic Swabs
- INSTANT PAIN RELIEF + ITCH RELIEF: Sting-Kill's unique formula provides instant relief from pain and itch from bee stings, wasp stings, mosquito bites, jellyfish stings and bites from chiggers, black flies, ants and spiders.
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH BUG BITE RELIEF: Our concentrated, over-the-counter insect bite treatment combines benzocaine and menthol to instantly cool and relieve pain + itch.
- #1 PHARMACIST RECOMMENDED, FAMILY FRIENDLY: Sting-Kill's sanitary single-use after bite swabs work quickly and are safe for adults and children ages 2 and up. They're also non-staining and non-greasy.
- FIRST AID KIT MUST-HAVE: These versatile, easy-to-use swabs are a great addition to your first aid kit at home, as well as in your car and vacation bags.
- FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS AND DEEP WOODS: Our conveniently packable swabs are great for backyard barbecues, camping, hiking and fishing trips. Keep them next to your bug spray and bug repellent for fast relief when you need it most.
Prevention: Keep drinks and food covered when eating outdoors to avoid attracting insects. These reusable lids are great for keeping canned drinks covered.
- The Original Smarter-Seal Soda and Beverage Can Lid. Patent. No. 10,336,508, 10,710,781. We are a USA company.
- Slim & Lightweight - Take it everywhere you go! Great for Outdoor Parties, BBQ's, Tailgating, Sporting Events, The Beach, Camping, Fishing & Travel.
- Carbonated beverages last 58% longer! (Compared to a standard, open can *Independently Lab Tested).
- Smarter-Seal helps you save money and enjoy your favorite beverage longer. Stop throwing away half-used cans because they have gone flat way too soon.
- Fits Standard Beverage Cans - 11.3 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz, 19.2 oz. Soda, Beer, Wine, Seltzer, Sparkling Waters, Juice, Coconut Water, Tea.
Sunburn
Sometimes you just can’t help it. You slather on the sunscreen before you head outdoors, but then forget to reapply. Or the waters washes it off when you’re swimming and paddling. Or maybe your sunscreen wasn’t very effective in the first place. Depending on skin type, sunburn is something most people experience. (And even if your skin doesn’t burn, it still needs protection from harmful UV rays, so don’t skip the SPF.)
If you get sunburn, there are a few things you can do to make it less painful and heal more quickly. First, take a cool shower to help relieve the pain. Then apply a thin layer of aloe vera. It will reduce the pain by cooling your skin plus it’s been shown to have anti-inflammatory compounds that help the skin heal. If your pain is too much, consider taking a pain reliever like ibuprofen or aspirin too.
Treatment: Seven Minerals Aloe Vera Gel
Prevention: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen
Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac all have the same painful result when they come in contact with skin: a red, itchy rash. The rash comes from an oil that’s on the leaves of the plant. Identifying these plants can be tricky, especially because their appearances change throughout the year and they don’t always take the same form. For instance, poison ivy can be a trailing vine or a small shrub. This helpful video gives some good tips for identifying all three of these plants.
How To Get Rid Of Poison Ivy
If you brush against poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac (or think you did), it’s a good idea to wash the affected area with soap and water right away to remove as much of the oil as possible. (And if the oil got on clothing, be aware that it can rub off on your skin.) It usually takes about 12–48 hours for the skin to react to these poisonous plants.
The bad news is that these plants can cause a rash that lasts up to 2 weeks! The good news is that most cases go away on their own without needing a visit to the doctor.
How To Treat Poison Ivy
In the meantime, there are things you can do to ease the pain and itching. First, you can apply cool, wet compresses to the area a few times a day for about 15 minutes at a time. The same topical creams that work for insect bites can also be used for poison ivy such as calamine lotion and anti-itch treatments. If you have a very severe rash, it’s widespread, or if it’s on your face (especially in or near your eyes), it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
Treatment: Ivarest Poison Ivy Anti-Itch Cream
- ITCH RELIEF: Used to relieve itching and discomfort cause by Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac reactions, insect bites, and minor skin irritations
- LONG LASTING: Delivers fast relief for up to 8 hours
- DOUBLE RELIEF FORMULA: Includes antihistamine to help stop the reaction, and analgesic to soothe the itch fast
- SKIN PROTECTANT: Ivarest Cream's formula helps to dry and protect the rash
- EASY APPLICATION: Applies easily and dries quickly to provide a protective covering that holds medication in place
Prevention: Wildland Poison Oak & Poison Ivy Exposure Wipes
- 100% Natural Poison Oak, Ivy and Sumac Rash Prevention - Wildland protection is made with natural lavender and grapefruit essential oils. Poison Oak, Ivy and Sumac contains nasty Urushiol Oil, and our formula removes the oils from your skin, quickly and effectively.
- Handy Packaging for Adventures - Each wipe is individually wrapped in a handy package, ready to be thrown in your backpack, ready to protect you from poison, so you can keep on adventuring.
- Fast Acting Relief for Sensitive Skin- Our formula is made with natural essential oils and suitable for the most sensitive skin. The wipes remove the oil that cause itchyness, rash and blisters to give you instant relief.
- Easy to Use, Easy on the Environment - When you come into contact with with poison oak, ivy or sumac, simply open the individual packets and wipe the affected area. When you have finished, simply throw the wipes away.
- Trusted by Adventurers - Wildland is premium utility skincare made for mountain bikers, trail runners, kayakers, hikers, climbers and anyone who would rather be standing under the open sky. We give you confidence when you head outside by providing you with a suite of products for poison oak and ivy treatments, created specifically for those who won't back down from an adventure.
FAQ
Q. What does Poison Ivy look like?
A. Poison Ivy typically grows as a small shrub or vine along the ground, or climbing along other low plants, poles, or trees. Most people identify the plant by its distinctive 3 leaves, and is found in most areas of the US, with the exception of Hawaii, Alaska, and certain sections of the West Coast. The appearance of Poison Ivy changes throughout the season. In the Spring the leaves are a reddish color, they are green in summer, and may appear as yellow, orange, or red in the Fall.
Heat Exhaustion
A common—but easily overlooked—summertime ailment is heat exhaustion. While not as serious as heatstroke, heat exhaustion can quickly turn into heatstroke if not treated properly. (If you or someone you know is showing signs of heatstroke, call 911 or seek medical help. Symptoms may include: a body temperature of 104°F+ after being in a hot environment, altered mental state such as confusion or slurred speech, nausea, rapid breathing, and flushed skin.)
High temperatures, humidity, extended sun exposure, and physical activity can all cause the body to overheat. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include: faintness, nausea, weak pulse, dizziness, excessive sweating, and muscle cramps. Fortunately, it’s both treatable and preventable.
To treat heat exhaustion, head to an air-conditioned place to rest or somewhere cooler and in the shade. Then drink plenty of cool water or a sports drink like Gatorade to help your body recover. If you’re near water, it also helps to get wet so your body will cool off as the water evaporates.
Treatment: Gatorade Powder Sticks
Prevention: Stay hydrated and avoid intense physical activity during the hottest part of the day.
