Arkansas summers are about sunshine-filled days, grilling with family, hiking scenic trails in the Ouachitas, and cooling off at the lake. But summer also brings health risks like heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and bug bites. At Healthy Connections, we’re dedicated to ensuring your summer is memorable—for all the right reasons.
With convenient walk-in appointments, same-day scheduling, and virtual visits at our clinics across central and western Arkansas, Healthy Connections makes sure expert care is always within reach.
Ready for a safe, enjoyable summer? Here’s what you need to know.
Avoid Heat-Related Illness: Your Summer Survival Checklist
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke affect Arkansans every year, especially children, seniors, and individuals with chronic conditions. Know how to stay safe:
✅ Avoid outdoor activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
✅ Drink water regularly—even if you don’t feel thirsty.
✅ Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
✅ Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
Protect Your Skin: Stop Sunburns Before They Happen
Did you know sunburn significantly increases your risk of skin cancer? Follow these essential steps to stay protected:
✅ Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) 15 minutes before going outside.
✅ Reapply sunscreen every two hours—or immediately after swimming or sweating.
✅ Wear protective clothing like sunglasses, hats, and lightweight long sleeves.
✅ Stay in the shade during peak hours.
Interactive Tip: Concerned about a mole or skin spot? Schedule a skin consultation today for peace of mind.
Stay Hydrated: Beat Dehydration All Summer Long
Dehydration can cause fatigue, confusion, and dizziness—especially dangerous in Arkansas’ heat and humidity. Here’s how to stay hydrated effectively:
✅ Keep a refillable water bottle handy and sip consistently throughout the day.
✅ Limit caffeine, sugary drinks, and alcohol—they speed up dehydration.
✅ Eat water-rich snacks like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges.
Interactive Tip: Not sure if you’re drinking enough water? Check your hydration levels instantly with our Hydration Self-Assessment Tool.
Keep Ticks and Mosquitoes Away: Prevent Illnesses
Ticks and mosquitoes thrive in Arkansas summers, spreading diseases like Lyme and West Nile virus. Protect yourself by:
✅ Using EPA-approved insect repellents with DEET or picaridin.
✅ Wearing long sleeves and pants in grassy or wooded areas.
✅ Conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor activities.
Interactive Tip: Bitten by a bug and feeling unwell? Take our brief Bug Bite Symptom Checker to determine if immediate care is necessary.
Summer Wellness Through Preventive Care
Heat, sun, dehydration, and bug bites can all lead to preventable health issues if not addressed early. That’s why Healthy Connections makes it easy to get the care you need—before small symptoms turn into big problems.
Whether you’re dealing with seasonal issues, managing a chronic condition, or need expert advice on how to stay safe this summer, we’re here for you.
We offer:
✅ Walk-in and same-day appointments
✅ Telehealth visits for flexible, immediate care
✅ Accessible clinics in Mena, Hot Springs, Little Rock, Russellville, and beyond
Your Best Arkansas Summer Starts Now
Make your family’s health a priority this season.
📞 Call 888-710-8220 or visit healthy-connections.org to schedule your appointment today.
Here’s to your healthiest summer yet—thanks to expert care from Healthy Connections.
