The Dark Side of Sunlight
Sunlight is indeed very useful but it is dangerous also.
The summer solstice, the longest day of the year and the official first day of summer in the northern hemisphere, is not until June 20. However, signs of summer’s approach can already be found.
No matter how cold or cloudy the April weather may be, the sun’s intensity is increasing daily, meaning that sunburn risk is increasing too. Even in April. One does not have to remain outside long before the skin begins to burn: skin injury can occur after just 30 minutes of sun exposure.
Sunburn is the body’s reaction to DNA damage caused by excess ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. Sunburn symptoms generally include red skin that is hot to touch, dizziness, and fatigue. More severely sunburned skin might blister, too. In some cases, sunburn is also accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as chills, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
One of the dangers of sunburn is that its effects are not immediately felt. Skin begins to feel irritated and turn red 2-6 hours after sun exposure, while sunburn symptoms generally peak 12-24 hours after exposure. Skin loss, marked by peeling of the burned skin, happens 4-7 hours after the burn occurred.
In severe cases of sun overexposure, sun poisoning can occur. Sun poisoning is marked by skin burns and blisters, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and infection. Sun poisoning can lead to death.
Proximity to the equator, sun exposure at high altitudes, and a fair complexion increase sunburn risk.
Home remedies such as making a compress of equal parts milk and water, or taking a cool shower may soothe burned skin. Store-bought aloe lotions can also dull burning sensations.
While sunburned, one should avoid additional sun exposure. Once skin is damaged by the sun, it re-burns much faster than healthy skin. Additionally, one should not further irritate sunburn skin by scrubbing or shaving.
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