June 2009 Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource Highlights Summer Skin Problems, Low Vision a...( ROCHESTER Minn. July 7 -- Here are h...),Health

ROCHESTER, Minn., July 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Here are highlights from the June issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. You may cite this publication as often as you wish. Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource attribution is required. Reprinting is allowed for a fee. Include the following subscription information as your editorial policies permit: Visit www.bookstore.mayoclinic.com or call toll-free for subscription information, 1-800-876-8633, extension 9751.

Tips to Prevent (or Soothe) Summer Skin Problems

ROCHESTER, Minn. -- Summer isn't always fun in the sun. Intense sunlight, hot and humid temperatures, poisonous plants and biting insects can cause a host of skin problems. The June issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource offers ways to prevent and treat common summer skin problems.

Heat rash (miliaria rubra): Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become plugged and trap perspiration beneath the skin. The rash appears as clusters of red spots or small, blisterlike bumps that are extremely itchy or prickly. Heat rash typically develops in skin folds or wherever clothing causes friction.

Prevention methods -- Dressing in soft, lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing can help prevent heat rash. Avoiding powders and heavy creams can help, too; these products can block skin pores.

Treatment -- Sweat reduction and keeping the skin cool help clear up the rash. (Think air conditioning.) Cool-water compresses, calamine lotion or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help reduce itching.

Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE): This rash typically appears within hours after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or commercial tanning beds. It appears as itchy red spots on the front o
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