Prevention Tips for Common Summer Health Problems

Skin cancer affects more than two million Americans each year. To protect yourself from harmful UV rays, you should try to stay out of direct sunlight during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; cover up by wearing hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved-shirts; wear sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher; and stay in a shaded spot or take an umbrella with you to the beach. And if you do happen to get burned, in the latest issue of The Oprah Magazine, Dr. Oz says you can sponge your burn with cooled chamomile tea, since it contains great anti-inflammatory properties. You can also use aloe vera gel because of its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.

When you get bit — whether by a mosquito, black fly, or even from ants — you can usually treat itching with an over-the-counter antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in cream or pill form. If you have a serious bite (from a spider, or worse yet, a snake!), you may need to take a trip to the doc's office.

For a natural mosquito prevention treatment, try using oil of lemon eucalyptus to give you some protection. If you need something stronger, look for a bug repellent that contains DEET.

We may be concerned with keeping our skin shielded from the sun, but our eyes need to be protected too since UV exposure can lead to cataracts and glaucoma. Wearing sunglasses not only protects our eyes, but the delicate tissue around our eyes as well.

When selecting a pair of sunglasses, make sure they block 99 or 100 percent of UVB and UVA rays. And if you like Jackie O inspired sunglasses, you're in luck because the larger the glasses, the more protection against UV damage since they block more light that hits your eyes from the sides.

Not drinking enough fluids in hot weather can cause serious health risks and even be life threatening. Heat stroke symptoms include a fast pulse, short, rapid breathing, and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 and immediately move to a cooler, shaded area.

Here are ten ways to help you stay hydrated during the Summer months.

Even if you're an experienced swimmer, undertows and rip currents can be deadly. Make sure you don't go swimming in unsupervised areas; don't swim alone; and don't dive in shallow or unfamiliar water. Also check the water quality before you go in since water changes throughout the seasons.