### How to Prevent Common Skin Problems in Summer **Dehydration and Heatstroke** - **Prevention**: Drink a 50-50 mix of Gatorade and water every hour if you're sweating outside. - **Warning Signs**: Thirst, fatigue, headaches, nausea, confusion, delirium, and hallucinations. - **Action**: Mild dehydration can be treated with fluids. For heatstroke, seek emergency medical help. **Poison Ivy** - **Prevention**: Avoid shrub areas, wear high boots or socks, and stay on the path. - **Warning Signs**: Itching and swelling from contact with the plant's oil. - **Action**: Use anti-itch cream like calamine lotion. If it worsens, see a doctor for steroids. **Food-borne Illnesses** - **Prevention**: Follow the rules of cook, clean, chill, and separate. Use a thermometer, wash hands, use a cooler, and keep utensils separate. - **Warning Signs**: Vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms. - **Action**: Severe symptoms may require medical attention. Contact your physician if needed. **Mosquito Bites** - **Prevention**: Use insect repellent, wear appropriate clothing, and avoid peak biting times. - **Warning Signs**: Red, raised, itchy bumps. - **Action**: Clean the area, use ice packs, take antihistamines, or apply anti-itch cream. See a doctor if symptoms of West Nile virus appear. **Swimmer's Ear** - **Prevention**: Use wax or custom-fit ear plugs. - **Warning Signs**: Ear pain, decreased hearing, sensation of fullness, fever, swollen lymph nodes. - **Action**: See a doctor for a prescription. **Sunburn** - **Prevention**: Stay inside or wear sunscreen that blocks all UV rays. - **Warning Signs**: Red, warm, tender skin, swelling, blisters. - **Action**: Use pain relievers, drink water, take cool baths. For severe burns, bandage the area and avoid breaking blisters.