Did a quick search, so hopefully I didn't miss it if there is one. But I'm going to gather a list of common and uncommon issues that one can realistically prepare for, or simply avoid, in general.
I'm starting to think about my emergency kit at the moment so I'd like to know what I should be packing, or at least think about packing.
I'll start, and hopefully those of you with more (any) experience will chime in.
I'd like to compile a list like so:
(Issue - how common or easy to encounter - causes - fixes)
1. Twisted Ankle - 6/10 (fairly common) - Causes: not watching where your going, going too fast, weak ankles, pack too heavy - Fixes: with ankle brace or ace bandage.
2. Dehydration - 4/10 - Causes: not planning water accordingly, more common in dry summers - Fixes: research water sources, ask passing hikers, carry an extra liter.
3. Bears - 2/10 - Causes: leaving food out at camp, improper hanging technique, previous hikers not packing out everything they brought, sometimes seen out near the trail during the day - Fixes: conceal all food at night and hang food bag properly (PCT method?), don't sleep with food, if encountered near trail, avoid and hike around.
Those were easy ones of course, not that they're 100% correct. Feel free to comment or alter according to your findings.
Some issues I'd be interested in hearing about from other, more knowledgeable, hikers are:
Rashes
Blisters
Ticks
Bug Bites
Shin Splints
Giardia
Ripped Pack/Bag/Tent
Snakes
Etc.
I understand there are some threads that may pertain to a single issue, but I'd like to see a one-stop-shop for these types of things so that I can reference them easier. Links that fit the bill are certainly welcome.
Feel free to contribute!