It’s summer time and with it comes warm, beautiful weather.  We all will be spending some more time outside in the next few months, so I think it’s important to be educated on exactly your body is experiencing when exposed to the sun.

As we all know, there are some risks to prolonged sun exposure, the most common being sunburn.  However, exposure to the sun is very important.  In small amounts, it can provide as much vitamin D as 100 glasses of milk.  Vitamin D is important for bone health.

Sun light is made of UVA and UVB rays.  It’s the UVB rays that are more harmful to the skin.  It’s important to know that, even if it is cloudy or overcast outside, your skin is still being exposed to UVB.  Sun exposure can be harsher at places near the equator and at high altitudes.  Most people rack up 50-80% of their lifetime sun exposure before they are 18, so it’s very important to keep en eye on children

                                            SUNBURNS                                         
 Regardless of your race or ethnic background, YOU can get a sunburn!  The more burns you experience the higher your risk for skin cancer.  Sun burns can begin about 30 minutes after being in the sun.  Redness and irritation will begin about 2-4 hours after exposure and the peak of your symptoms occur between 12 and 16 hours.

Sun burns can generally go untreated, but seek medical attention if you begin to experience blisters, nausea and fainting.  These could be signs of more serious conditions

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat exhaustion usually occurs when someone is playing or exercising outdoors and is more severe than a sunburn.  It typically occurs when someone depletes their internal “water supply” and their body is unable to produce sweat and cool itself down.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and fainting.  If you experience the lesser of these symptoms, you may not have to seek medical help.  Just be sure to drink plenty of water and move into the shade.  If you begin to experience fainting, then proceed to the nearest hospital.

HEAT STROKE

Heat stroke is more severe than heat exhaustion.  It is actually a form of hyperthermia where your body is at an abnormal temperature and can be fatal if not treated immediately.  Causes of heat stroke include dehydration and symptoms sometimes mimic a heart attack.  They include difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, hallucinations, confusion and seizure.

Most susceptible to heat stroke are infants, seniors, outdoor workers and athletes.  To treat, immediately call 911, take the victim to a shaded area and give them plenty of water.

PREVENTION

Of course, it is unrealistic to deny yourself any exposure to the sun, nor is it health.  To prevent any of these ailments, be sure to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks from the sun and avoid caffeine, alcohol and tea.

Any questions?  Feel free to comment and post about your experiences with sun exposure and your tips for staying hydrated this summer.