The warm weather is playing a hand in the frequency of urinary tract infections treated in Palm Springs. Dr. Clifton Cole says the best way to avoid them is to stay well hydrated. Unless your doctor has put you on a water restriction, eight, eight-ounce glasses of water...or one half gallon...is necessary every day. "Hydration is so important in the summer heat, especially for anyone who is outdoors," says Dr. Cole. "Stay cool and well hydrated."
In Rancho Mirage, vomiting and diarrhea season has started all over among kids. Usually the gastroenteritis symptoms are caused by a virus. Hydration with fluids like pedialyte is important, says Dr. Arturo Quintanilla. "Have your doctor evaluate your child if he or she refuses to drink fluids, or stops urinating."
Summer colds are hanging around Palm Desert. Dr. Andrew Cyrus has also treated several people for sunburns and infected insect bite. He says using antibacterial soaps on insect bites can help prevent infection.
In the east valley, Dr. Randolph Gibbs is still seeing three to four cases a day of gastroenteritis that may be due to viruses. Remember that treatment includes hydration and management of fever. If there's no improvement within two to three days, see a doctor. Heat exhaustion is also becoming an issue for those who work in the fields. Symptoms include dizziness, thirst and headache. Lastly, cervical lymphadenitis in children is going around. The swollen lymph nodes can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. "Over 80 percent of these cases are related to a benign process" says Dr. Gibbs. "However if the condition does not spontaneously resolve within 4-6 weeks, a diagnostic ultrasound study or biopsy may be indicated."
In Cathedral City, Dr. Seema Bir's treating many urinary tract infections, especially in older women. This is spurred by dehydration, so drinking lots of water during the summer months is very important. Swimmer's ear is going around. Wearing ear plugs, or avoiding the pool for a few weeks can prevent a worse infection. Speaking of infections, Dr. Bir has noticed skin infections, which may be caused by the drying effects of too much time in the pool.
Among adults in Rancho Mirage Dr. Sara Azar tells us she's seeing a fair share of suspicious skin lesions. She says you should be vigilant about moles that change in shape or size, because skin cancer is a big concern. "All patients, especially those with a lifetime of sun exposure, are advised to have a 'skin survey' by a dermatologist to catch any suspicious lesions early." Swimmer's ear happens routinely. Ear pain and discharge are the main symptoms. A couple drops of alcohol or peroxide in the ear after a swim can dry out any retained water...but don't put anything in there smaller than your elbow. That includes q-tips. Gastroenteritis cases appear to be waning this week.
Watch "What's Going Around" every Tuesday evening on KPSP Local 2 News at 6:00 p.m. and every Wednesday morning on KPSP Local 2 This Morning at 6:45 a.m.
