Fountain Valley Urgent Care Permanently Closed. We’re Here to Care for You at Our Other Locations.
Summer is just around the corner: longer days, outdoor adventures, vacations, and plenty of sunshine. It's an exciting time of year that calls for careful planning to ensure you and your family stay safe, healthy, and energized.
Whether you're gearing up for beach days or backyard barbecues, taking proactive steps can make a big difference.
A little preparation goes a long way.
Check your closet for warm-weather essentials like breathable clothing, wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and sturdy sandals. Stock up on sunscreen, refill your beach bags, and make sure your outdoor gear is ready for adventure.
Summer vacations are great times to catch up on routine health appointments. Schedule skin screenings to monitor for any signs of sun damage, discuss allergy management with your healthcare provider, and ensure vaccinations (such as travel vaccines) are up-to-date if you plan to travel internationally.
Map out your summer vacations, weekend trips, and outdoor hobbies. Book accommodations early, research local attractions, and make a checklist of must-visit spots to avoid last-minute stress.
Make sure your home is ready for the summer heat. Schedule an AC maintenance check, clean out ceiling fans, and inspect your pool for any safety hazards. Having a cool and safe environment to retreat to during hot days is crucial for your comfort and health.
Buy plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF, insect repellant to ward off mosquitos and ticks, and electrolyte-enhanced hydration products. Being prepared helps prevent sunburns, bites, and dehydration.
Summer often brings a disruption to normal routines. Set achievable wellness goals, like maintaining your exercise routine even during vacations, eating healthy on the go, or setting aside time for mental relaxation.
Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) before going outside and reapply every two hours (or consider wearing clothing/rash guards with built-in SPF properties). Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Whether you’re at the pool, lake, or beach, never swim alone. Keep a close watch on children around water at all times and swim near lifeguards when available. If boating, always wear a life jacket.
Be aware of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Symptoms include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Stay hydrated, take breaks in cool areas, and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat.
Summer adventures can expose you to ticks, poison ivy, and other outdoor hazards. Wear long sleeves and pants when hiking in wooded areas, use insect repellent, and learn how to identify dangerous plants.
If you're hitting the road, ensure your car is road-trip ready with an emergency kit. For beach trips, pack shade structures, first-aid supplies, and extra hydration. If traveling abroad, check health advisories and necessary vaccinations ahead of time.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the summer keeps your energy high and your mind sharp.
Fill your plate with seasonal fruits and vegetables like berries, cucumbers, leafy greens, and tomatoes. These foods are not only hydrating but packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Continue your fitness routine but adjust it for the heat. Exercise early in the morning or later in the evening and choose water-based activities like swimming or aqua aerobics to stay cool.
Summer is meant to be enjoyed. Take breaks, plan downtime, spend time with friends and family, and practice mindfulness. Vacations and social activities are essential for mental recharging.
Travel and social activities can disrupt your usual routines. Set reminders to take medications and aim for consistent sleep patterns, even during busy travel days.
Proper hydration is one of the most important parts of summer wellness.
In hot months, your water needs increase. Aim to drink about 8 glasses of water spaced throughout the day, and more if you are active outdoors.
Symptoms like dry mouth, headache, dizziness, and dark urine signal dehydration. Don't wait, drink water regularly throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty.
Add foods with high water content like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, and oranges to your meals. They’re refreshing, nutritious, and boost your hydration naturally.
Summer should be a time of adventure, relaxation, and vibrant health. By planning, staying mindful of summer safety tips, and making your health a priority, you can ensure this season is one to remember. From protecting yourself against sunburn to keeping hydrated and active, a little preparation can go a long way.
Make this summer your healthiest and safest yet. Visit Family Care Centers Medical Group for expert guidance on summer wellness, seasonal health checkups, and personalized care at Irvine Woodbridge Urgent Care and Costa Mesa Urgent Care. Start your summer strong and stay protected all season long!
Content Resource: Guide to Poisonous Plants
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
