The consequences of prolonged exposure to the sun

Sun exposure is essential for life, providing light and warmth, which are essential for health and well-being. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is responsible for the production of vitamin D, which is key for calcium absorption and bone strengthening. However, prolonged or excessive exposure to sunlight can have serious health consequences, affecting the skin, eyes and immune system.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation and its Impact.

The sun emits different types of radiation, and the one that affects us the most is ultraviolet (UV) radiation. There are three main types of UV rays: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC rays are blocked by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth's surface, but UVA and UVB rays do, and they have different effects on our skin and health.

• UVA rays: Penetrate deeply into the skin and are responsible for premature aging. They can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.
• UVB rays: They are the main cause of sunburn and play a crucial role in the development of skin cancer, as they directly damage the DNA of skin cells.

Sunburn: The Immediate Consequence.

One of the most common and visible consequences of overexposure to the sun is sunburn. This occurs when the skin is damaged by UV radiation. Although symptoms can vary depending on skin type and duration of exposure, sunburn typically causes redness, pain, and irritation. In more severe cases, the skin may blister and peel off, which can be extremely painful and leave scars.

Frequent sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer in the long term, as well as accelerating skin ageing. In the short term, severe sunburns can cause dehydration, fatigue and fever, and in extreme cases, may require urgent medical attention.

Skin Cancer: A Silent Threat.

Prolonged sun exposure is one of the main risk factors for skin cancer, which is the most common type of cancer worldwide. There are three main types of skin cancer:

• Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type and usually the least dangerous. It usually appears as a lump or patch of skin that does not heal, and although it grows slowly, it can damage surrounding tissue if left untreated.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: This is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. It commonly appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, and scalp.
• Melanoma: This is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and can be fatal if not detected and treated early. Melanoma can develop from existing moles or appear as new spots on the skin. It spreads quickly to other parts of the body, such as internal organs and lymph nodes.

People who get sunburned frequently, especially in childhood, have a higher risk of developing skin cancer in adulthood. For this reason, it is vital to take preventative measures, such as using sunscreen and appropriate clothing when outdoors.

Premature Aging of the Skin.

Prolonged sun exposure also accelerates the photoaging process. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and damage collagen and elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping the skin firm and elastic. Over time, this damage causes:

• Deep wrinkles
• Dark spots (hyperpigmentation)
• Loss of firmness
• Rough skin texture

Premature skin aging is one of the most visible consequences of sun exposure and can be difficult to reverse. Although there are dermatological treatments that can help improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, prevention is the best solution to maintain youthful and healthy skin.

Eye Damage.

The eyes are also susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to UV rays. One of the most common effects is photoconjunctivitis, a temporary inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the eyes) that causes redness, irritation, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.

Over the long term, UV radiation can contribute to the development of cataracts and macular degeneration, two of the leading causes of vision loss in older adults. Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's lens that can interfere with vision, while macular degeneration affects the central part of the retina and can cause blindness.

Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays is an effective way to protect your eyes and prevent these eye problems.

Immune System Suppression.

Overexposure to the sun not only affects the skin and eyes, but can also weaken the immune system. UV radiation can disrupt the functioning of immune cells in the skin, decreasing the body's ability to defend itself against infections and diseases. This can increase susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections, such as cold sores (caused by the herpes simplex virus).

In addition, sun exposure can interfere with the body's ability to fight certain types of cancer, including skin cancer. For this reason, it is important to limit exposure to UV radiation to keep the immune system strong and healthy.

Heat Stroke: A Risk of Prolonged Exposure.

Heatstroke, or heat exhaustion, is a serious condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature due to prolonged exposure to heat and sun. Symptoms include:

• High fever (above 40°C)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion and disorientation
• Loss of consciousness
• Rapid pulse and labored breathing

Heat stroke can be fatal if not treated promptly, and people who spend long periods in the sun without adequate protection are especially vulnerable. To prevent it, it is essential to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

How to Protect Yourself from the Sun.

To avoid the negative consequences of prolonged exposure to the sun, it is essential to adopt a series of protective measures:

• Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin areas. It's important to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you sweat or swim.
• Wear protective clothing: Long-sleeved clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses can significantly reduce direct sun exposure.
• Seek shade: Whenever possible, staying in the shade, especially during the sun's most intense hours, can reduce the risk of sunburn and other damage.
• Avoid midday sun: Limiting sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest, can minimize risks.

Sun exposure has benefits, such as the production of vitamin D, but too much can have serious consequences, from sunburn and premature skin aging to skin cancer and eye damage. Adopting responsible habits, such as using sunscreen and avoiding the most intense hours of the sun, is essential to enjoying a healthy life and protecting yourself from the risks associated with UV radiation.