You have been waiting all year to be able to slip your feet into the sand here are somethings you should know to avoid the dangers of the beach.
Don’t let the hot sand burn your feet
The sand may look inviting but it can be burning hot! Every year we would vacation at the Jersey Shore and every year we would see people step into the burning sand not even realizing it was hot. I understand that people take off their shoes at the beach because they don’t want sand in their shoes, but what is worse burned feet or a little sand in your shoes? Maybe wearing flip flops would solve both problems.
Watch out for those sharp seashells
Other dangers of the beach are hidden in the sand. You might be walking with your partner gazing into their eyes as you walk along the beach and not realize that the shells that you are walking on could puncture your foot. If this happens to you, you should clean it right away with soap or an antibiotic ointment. You will also want to stay out of the water. The ocean has bacteria that could lead to an infection.
Lifeguards won’t warn you about these water creatures
This year there has been a rise in the number of man of war jellyfish. They are interesting to look at but you don’t want to step on one. Being stung by a jellyfish can lead to severe pain leaving a red welts on the skin that last two to three days. If you are stung he pain should start to go away after an hour but sometimes the venom can travel to the lymph nodes resulting in more intense pain. If the sting leads to an allergic reaction, make sure you get medical help right away. Some serious side effects include fever, shock, or an effect on the lungs or heart. Although you don’t want to go in the ocean with an open wound, a jellyfish sting is different. It does much better when it has salt water applied to it than with fresh water.
The boardwalk is not for bare feet
Walking on the boardwalk seems like a better alternative to the sand right? It is only if you are wearing protective footwear. If the boardwalk is made of wood, you have to be careful of splinters. If the boardwalk is made of Trex, you have to be careful not to burn your feet.
So here is the bottom line, to avoid the dangers of the beach wear a pair of sandals or flip flops – and have a great beach vacation.
If for some reason you have encountered any of these dangers of the beach give us a call at (845) 298-9074 for a same day appointment.
Hollowbrook Foot Specialist serving the Hudson Valley from Wappingers Falls
