From heat-related illnesses to insect bites and poison ivy, knowing when to visit urgent care or the emergency room can make all the difference.

SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. — Summer in the Smokies means more time outdoors, but it also brings an increase in seasonal illnesses and injuries, according to a Covenant Health provider.

Katlyn Oshie, a physician assistant with Covenant Health Community Care Clinic in Sevierville, said healthcare providers commonly see patients with heat-related illnesses, insect bites and minor injuries during the warmer months.

“Throughout the summer, we often treat heat exhaustion, heat stroke, tick and insect bites, poison ivy, as well as minor cuts, scrapes and sprains,” Oshie said.

While many of these conditions can be treated at a primary care office or urgent care clinic, Oshie said it’s important to recognize when a situation becomes an emergency.

“If it’s something that needs to be seen today but is not life-threatening, that’s typically appropriate for primary care or urgent care,” she said. “If it’s threatening your life, your organs or a limb, that’s when you should go to the emergency room.”

For minor sprains or injuries, Oshie recommends taking simple first-aid measures while waiting to be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

“If an area is painful, avoid putting weight on it,” she said. “Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every couple of hours, elevate the injured area when possible, and consider using Tylenol or ibuprofen for pain relief.”

However, she said worsening pain, significant swelling, open wounds, severe bruising or uncontrolled bleeding should be evaluated immediately in an emergency department.

As outdoor activities continue through the summer, Oshie encourages residents and visitors to stay hydrated, protect themselves from excessive sun exposure, wear insect repellent and seek medical care promptly if symptoms become severe.

The Covenant Health Community Care Clinic in Sevierville is currently accepting new patients, according to Oshie.