.....It is finally here; sunshine. While sun exposure is great for plants and people alike, being in the sun can pose a few dangers. Heat exhaustion, sunburns and even skin cancer can be some of the drawbacks from too much sun worshiping. I am not advocating staying indoors all summer, but just be aware of all the pleasures and pains that summer can bring.
.....Sunlight is good for you, it helps your body make Vitamin D. Vitamin D has been in the news recently for its ability to help prevent certain forms of cancer. There is also some evidence that it might play a role in preventing type 2 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. This important nutrient is also essential for the proper development of strong teeth and bones. People thought that vitamin D deficiency was a thing of the past after they started fortifying milk with this vitamin. But the more I read about vitamin D, the more I think everyone should take a little extra. Recently, I read one study that found approximately 25% of people who lived in Southern Arizona were considered to be vitamin D deficient. This is quite shocking because Arizona is considered to be in the 'sun belt'.
.....Sunstroke, and the less dangerous condition of heat exhaustion, can be one of the dangers of too much sun |
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exposure. What normally happenswhen we get too hot is that our bodies produce sweat in an attempt to cool off. This perspiration draws heat from inside to the outsides of our body, and the sweat's evaporation from the skin furthers cools the body. This
nortmally works just fine, but if this system is overwhelmed it can cause the body's core temperature to rise. This rise in core temperature can be quite serious. Mild increases in temperature can cause symptoms of confusion, dizziness, fainting or headaches. The blood vessels become dilated in an
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attemptto lower body temperature, thus giving the skin a bright red colour. As the body's temperature rises further, dehydration may occur and symptoms of chills, shivering, nausea, vomiting and loss of consciousness may be seen. At this point medical attention is essential.
.....Prevention of heat exhaustion is easily done. Make sure you drink plenty of water if you are outside in the heat. The key word here is 'water', not coffee, beer or sports drinks. Coffee and alcohol can cause further dehydration and sport drinks are not needed unless you are an endurance athlete. Wear light, loose fitting clothing, which will allow sweat to evaporate. During the hottest times of the day try to stay cool and avoid strenuous activities or exercise. Wearing a light coloured brimmed hat can sometimes help to keep the heat of the sun off your head, face and shoulders.
.....One great cause of heat stroke is being trapped inside a car during a sunny day. On a day where the temperature is 32C outside, the interior of a car can reach 51C in 20 minutes. At these temperatures, heat stroke can occur within minutes. This can prove to be fatal for young children and pets. Every year, dozens of children die from being trapped inside cars on hot days. |
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