Water Injury Treatment Clinic in West Bradenton, FL
Prime Health Urgent Care in West Bradenton, FL, is dedicated to providing comprehensive and specialized care for individuals suffering from water-related injuries. With a team of experienced healthcare professionals, Dr. Alfonso Espinel, MD, offers state-of-the-art treatment options to ensure rapid and effective recovery. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4647 Manatee Ave, W Bradenton, FL 34209.


Table of Contents:
What injuries can you get from water?
What does a swimmer’s ear feel like?
What is a recreational disease?
What should you not wear in a pool?
Whether you are dealing with a minor scrape or a more serious injury, our clinic is equipped to handle all your needs with compassion and expertise. Discover why Prime Health Urgent Care is preferred for water-related injury treatment in West Bradenton, FL.
Water-related injuries can vary widely in nature and severity, depending on the activities involved and the environment. Common injuries include lacerations and abrasions from sharp objects or rough surfaces in the water, such as rocks or coral. Drowning and near-drowning incidents are severe risks associated with water activities, particularly for individuals who are not strong swimmers. Additionally, water sports like surfing, water skiing, and wakeboarding can result in sprains, fractures, and joint dislocations due to high-impact falls or collisions. Swimmer’s ear, a painful infection of the outer ear canal, is another frequent issue among those frequently exposed to water. Hypothermia is a danger in colder waters, where the body loses heat faster than it can produce, leading to a dangerous drop in body temperature. Lastly, aquatic environments can sometimes harbor harmful bacteria and pathogens, giving rise to infections and illnesses if contaminated water enters the body through cuts, ingestion, or inhalation.
Swimmer’s ear, also known medically as otitis externa, typically starts with mild discomfort in the ear canal, which can progressively become more pronounced. Individuals often experience itching inside the ear, followed by redness and swelling of the ear canal. As the condition worsens, it can lead to throbbing pain that intensifies when the outer ear is tugged or pressed. This pain may radiate to the neck, face, or head, making it particularly distressing. Other common symptoms include a feeling of fullness in the ear, diminished hearing, and the sensation that the ear is blocked or plugged. In more severe cases, there may be discharge from the ear, which can be clear and watery or pus-like. The combination of these symptoms can be highly uncomfortable, disrupting daily activities and, if left untreated, potentially leading to more serious complications.
Recreational disease refers to illnesses and infections that are primarily contracted during recreational activities, particularly those involving water. These diseases can stem from various environmental factors, including exposure to bacteria, viruses, and parasites prevalent in natural water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. For example, swimming in contaminated water can lead to conditions like leptospirosis, giardiasis, and schistosomiasis, each caused by specific pathogens. Recreational water illnesses (RWIs) also encompass infections like cryptosporidiosis and E. coli, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues marked by diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. Beyond microbial infections, recreational diseases can include skin conditions such as hot tub folliculitis, often resulting from suboptimal maintenance of hot tubs and swimming pools. The risk of contracting a recreational disease increases with factors such as poor water quality, overcrowded swimming areas, and open wounds. Preventative measures, such as avoiding swallowing water, maintaining proper hygiene, and ensuring regular maintenance of recreational water facilities, are crucial to mitigating these risks.
When preparing for a swim, it’s essential to pay attention to what should not be worn in a pool to ensure safety, hygiene, and the longevity of the pool facilities. Clothing items not specifically designed for swimming, such as jeans, cotton shirts, and regular underwear, should be avoided. These materials tend to absorb and hold onto water, which can weigh the swimmer down, increase the risk of drowning, and introduce contaminants into the pool. Furthermore, loose-fitting apparel can become entangled in pool equipment or obstruct drains and filters, potentially causing safety hazards and maintenance issues. Similarly, metallic accessories like watches, jewelry, and hairpins should be left out, as they can corrode in chlorinated water and pose choking risks or bodily injuries. Footwear, unless specifically designed for water use, is also discouraged due to potential slippage on wet surfaces and the introduction of dirt and debris into the pool. By adhering to appropriate swimwear guidelines, swimmers contribute to a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable pool environment for everyone.
At Prime Health Urgent Care, we are committed to providing top-quality care for all your water-related injury needs. Our dedicated team is here to ensure you receive the best treatment in a compassionate and professional setting. Don’t let an injury keep you from enjoying your favorite water activities contact us today or book an appointment online to get started on your path to recovery. Experience why our clinic is the trusted choice for residents in West Bradenton, FL. We are conveniently located at 4647 Manatee Ave, W Bradenton, FL 34209. We serve patients from West Bradenton FL, Rubonia FL, Sarasota FL, Palma Sola FL, Lakewood Ranch FL, Palmetto FL, and surrounding areas.

Additional Services You May Need

Additional Services You May Need
• Abscesses
• Sports Injuries
• Bug & Animal Bites
• BV Testing
• COVID Testing
• Drug Testing
• EKG Testing
• Flu Shots
• Foreign Body Removal
• Laceration Repair
• Minor Burn Treatment
• Pelvic Exams
• Strep Testing
• STD Testing
• Fractures, Sprains, & Strains
• Splinting Treatment
• School & Sports Physicals
• TB Testing
• Tetanus Shot
• Urgent Care
• Vaccines
• Wound Care
• Work Injuries
• X-Ray
• Internal Lab Services
• Illness/Injury
• Occupational Medicine
• Employment Physicals
• Common Cold
• Auto Injuries
• Weight Loss
• Wegovy
• Mounjaro
• Telehealth