How to Treat 5 Common Summer Ailments

Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and outdoor adventures—but it also brings a set of seasonal health risks. Fortunately, many of these common ailments can be prevented or treated with the help of products that are covered by your Flexible Spending Account (FSA). From sunburns to bug bites, here’s how to avoid and manage five of the most common summer health concerns. 

Food poisoning

Warm temperatures and outdoor eating create the perfect conditions for bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli to multiply on food if it isn’t stored or cooked properly.

How to avoid it:

• Keep perishable foods cold (below 40°F).
• Don’t let cooked food sit out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if above 90°F).
• Wash hands and surfaces often when handling food.

Treat it with your FSA:

• Oral rehydration solutions help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide can help relieve symptoms.
• Digital thermometers to help monitor fever, which may signal more severe infection.

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Sunburn & heat rash

Too much sun exposure can lead to painful burns and irritating heat rash (also known as prickly heat), especially when combined with sweat and friction. 

How to avoid it:

• Use broad-spectrum SPF 15+ sunscreen.
• Wear sun-protective clothing and seek shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Stay cool and dry whenever possible.

Treat it with your FSA:

• Aloe vera gel, lidocaine spray, and cooling gels all help soothe sunburn.
• Hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion treat heat rash and mild burns.
• Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen reduce discomfort and inflammation.

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Dehydration & heat stroke

When your body overheats, it struggles to produce enough sweat to cool down effectively. Without sufficient fluids, this cooling mechanism is compromised, which can lead to serious conditions like dehydration or even heat stroke.

How to avoid it:

• Drink water frequently, and consider electrolyte drinks or rehydration powders for added hydration. 
• Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. 
• Wear light, breathable clothing. 

Treat it with your FSA:

• For mild dehydration, use hydrating electrolyte drinks (many come in travel-friendly pouches and yummy, kid-friendly flavors).
• Cooling packs and cold compresses help bring body temperatures down. 
• In case of heat stroke, seek emergency medical help immediately (symptoms include confusion, vomiting, rapid heartbeat).

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Hay fever (seasonal allergies)

Tree, grass, and weed pollen can trigger hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion.

How to avoid it:

• Check pollen counts and stay indoors during peak hours. 
• Use nasal irrigation systems and HEPA air purifiers to keep allergens at bay.
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outside.

Treat it with your FSA: 

• Antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine reduce sneezing and itching.
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays (e.g. fluticasone) alleviate congestion and inflammation.
• Allergy eye drops help relieve red, itchy eyes.

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Insect bites, stings, and poisonous plants

Bug bites and stings can range from annoying to dangerous, and contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac can lead to intense itching and rashes. 

How to avoid it:

• Use insect repellent.
• Wear long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas.
• Learn to recognize and avoid poisonous plants.

Treat it with your FSA:

• Hydrocortisone cream and calamine lotion relieve itching and inflammation.
• Antihistamines (oral or topical) reduce allergic reactions.
• After-bite sticks, heat treatments, and itch-relief sprays help soothe discomfort.

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Stay prepared with your FSA

Stock your summer first aid kit with these FSA eligible essentials to handle common seasonal ailments efficiently. Many over-the-counter products no longer require a prescription thanks to updates under the CARES Act — but you can always check our Eligibility List™–or consult your FSA provider–to confirm coverage.

Pro Tip: Plan ahead to make the most of your pre-tax FSA dollars before your deadline (December 31 is the most common). 

Summer should be about making memories, not managing medical issues. With some prevention and a few key products—many of which are FSA eligible—you can minimize the risk of summer ailments and enjoy a healthier, carefree season. 

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