Trivia: Some Summer Myths

Myth: Don't go swimming for an hour after eating, or you'll get cramps and risk drowning.

Fact: Snopes.com and many other sources have debunked this one. A 2005 New York Times article noted that vigorous swimming on a full stomach may cause discomfort and interfere with performance, and could "conceivably lead to cramps" (our italics), but the risk of cramps is exceeding small for recreational swimmers. The article cited a study that found less than 1% of drownings occurred after the victim ate a meal – and there's no evidence that the two events were linked. However, do not swim while intoxicated! One study of adolescent drowning found that 25% were alcohol-related, and a study of adult drowning found that 41% were alcohol-related.

Myth: Poison ivy rashes are contagious.

Fact: Rashes from poison ivy, oak, and sumac are not contagious. The confusion arises from the fact that all three types of rashes are a delayed allergic reaction to the urushiol oil found on these plants. About 50% of people are allergic to the oil. So while the rash itself is not contagious, urushiol oil on skin, clothing, shoes, bedding, etc., can be transferred to others and/or can cause new rashes or re-exposure. So in the event of an exposure, wash everything thoroughly.

Myth: Scraping off bee stingers with a credit card is the best way to remove the stinger.

Fact: Removing the bee stinger as quickly as possible is the top priority – the longer the stinger remains in the body, the more severe reaction will be. Pulling the stinger out with your fingers is safe and saves time.

Myth: Sparklers are a safe alternative to fireworks for children.

Fact: No fireworks are 100% safe. The Lifetime Health Medical Group states that sparklers can reach temperatures higher than 1,000F (538C), and have the potential to cause burns and ignite clothing. Always supervise your children while using sparklers and other fireworks.

Myth: Putting butter on a sunburn will help it heal faster.

Fact: Butter and oil trap heat, so they will make things worse. Use aloe or a commercial sunburn product to soothe the damaged skin, and be extra careful to protect burned areas from the sun with protective clothing and sunscreen.

Myth: Sucking snake venom from a wound with your mouth will help save the victim.

Fact: Sorry, Hollywood. About.com says that attempting to suck out snake venom will not help the victim and may harm the rescuer. Get medical help for the snakebite victim as quickly as possible, and let the professionals administer antivenin and other treatments. Keep the site of the wound below the level of the heart, remove any constrictive clothing or jewelry around the affected area, because it may swell, and watch for signs of shock. Getting a photo of the snake or bringing a dead snake to the hospital can help healthcare staff identify the species; however, safety is more important, and getting away from the snake immediately should take priority.