How to Protect Yourself from the Sun

If you do not take precautions in the summer the sun can do serious damage to you. It can even kill you if you are not careful. In this article we discuss the various conditions the sun can cause to you and how to prevent it. Even on cool or cloudy days certain conditions can creep up on you. In order to keep yourself safe and out of the emergency room use adequate protection while outside enjoying the summer.

Sunburn

Sunburn has three stages. Sunburn is nothing more than a burn and burns have three stages. The redness is what is called 1^st degree burn. This is the one most people get from being out in the sun too long without an adequate sunblock. If you receive a 1^st degree sunburn form the sun you are aware how uncomfortable it can be. After you have gotten sunburn you want to keep the skin moist. Using a cold cream will give you some relief. There is also some sprays that relieve the pain and also keep the skin moist. If you develop blistering you have what is called 2^nd degree burn.

The important thing is to stay out of the sun after an overexposure. In severe cases you may have to be hospitalized. All of this could have been avoided if you had an adequate sunblock or cut down your exposure time in the sun. Take precautions on cloudy days can you can burn without even being aware of it.

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can take place after several days of exposure of high temperatures and inadequate replacement of fluids. The symptoms of heat exhaustion are paleness, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, fainting, nausea and vomiting. The skin will become cool and moist also you could have a rapid pulse and heart rate. To avoid heat exhaustion drink plenty of fluids even when your not thirsty. Wear light and loose fitting clothing. You should also wear a hat. You could have a more serious problem if its not taken care of. If you or a loved one is suspected of suffering from heat exhaustion get out of the sun immediately and seek immediate medical help. Your life could depend on it.

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is commonly known as sunstroke. It is just like heat exhaustion in symptoms except symptoms are more severe. Those who suffer from heart related illness are more susceptible to this condition. Always make sure that plenty of liquids are available. If you suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke do not use alcoholic beverages. The best liquids are non-alcoholic, sugarless drinks, non-carbonated drinks. Water and Gatorade is the one of the better drinks to use on hot summer days.

Also, increase you salt intake cause salt retains water. Thats why salt tablets are given out to our troops almost on a daily basis in hot climates. Increase your potassium intake and salt intake by eating foods and liquids that replenish what you will sweat away.

If you take these precautions you should be able to enjoy the outdoors without any interruption in your fun.