The influence of the sun on a person’s emotional state. The effect of the sun on the human body

The bulk of sunlight consists of rays with very short wavelengths, which are measured in nanometers (nm), 1 nm is equal to 0.001 microns.

Within the optical part of sunlight are: ultraviolet invisible rays(280-400 nm), light rays (400-760 nm) and infrared invisible rays (760-2800 nm).

Visible rays giving sensation white, when refracted through a triangular prism, decompose into the following colors: violet (the shortest), blue, cyan, green, yellow, orange and red (these are the colors of the rainbow).

Ultraviolet radiation causes mainly a photochemical effect, and infrared radiation causes a thermal effect.

At the earth's surface, 59% of solar radiation comes from infrared rays, 40% from light rays and about 1% from ultraviolet rays.

When passing through the earth's atmosphere, about 60% of solar radiation is absorbed in the stratosphere and dispersed into space with the help of water vapor and the ozone layer. Near the earth, radiation delay occurs mainly due to atmospheric pollution with dust, smoke and gases, during cloudiness and fog. Ultraviolet rays are retained the most. In large industrial cities with heavy smoke and gas pollution, the loss of ultraviolet radiation reaches 40%, and the overall illumination sharply decreases.

The amount of direct solar radiation decreases with distance from the equator, as the angle of incidence of the sun's rays decreases. The most a large number of radiation in mid-latitudes occurs in May, during the day - at noon.

There are more ultraviolet rays in the south than in the north. In addition to direct solar radiation, diffuse radiation is of some importance. When the sky is clear, the short-wavelength bluish-blue part of the spectrum is predominantly scattered, which causes the blue color of the sky. The activity of scattered radiation is low, but the large amount of ultraviolet rays makes it biologically very useful. Therefore, you can sunbathe while in the shade.

Some solar radiation is reflected from the surfaces on which it falls. For example, snow reflects up to 85% of total radiant energy, yellow quartz sand - 35% of solar radiation, river sand - 29%, green grass- 26%, chernozem - 14%, water surface with sheer incidence of sunlight - only 2%. This information must be taken into account when choosing a place for sunbathing in different climatic conditions.

Except thermal effect and implications for vision, the radiant energy of the sun has a beneficial healing effect on the entire body. Acting through the visual analyzer, light energy affects metabolism, general tone, sleep rhythm, etc. Light also serves as a signal thermal stimulus, which can cause a feeling of warmth and reduce metabolism even in the absence of real heating by solar or artificial light rays.

When skin is irradiated, photochemical reactions occur in the body, causing complex chemical transformations in tissues and having a serious impact on metabolism. Ultraviolet rays with wavelengths from 290 to 315 nm have the strongest biological properties.

Under the influence of ultraviolet rays, vitamin D is formed in the skin. Direct sunlight kills tuberculosis bacteria in a few minutes, staphylococci in 15 minutes, and typhoid bacilli in 60 minutes. There are observations that in clear sunny weather the prevalence and duration of epidemics of influenza, diphtheria, scarlet fever and other infectious diseases transmitted through the air are much smaller and shorter.

And with the so-called light starvation, which is observed in people who are deprived of the opportunity to use sufficient daylight (those living in the North during the polar night, those working in mines, in the subway), numerous disturbances occur in the vital functions of the body. Children develop rickets, the number of cases of dental caries increases, bone strength decreases, functional disorders of the nervous system appear, and the course of tuberculosis worsens. However, if exposed to sunlight for too long without a regular change of day and night (Arctic region), fatigue of the nervous system and changes in a person’s reflex activity are possible. Even “white nights” can cause irritation and fatigue of the nervous system.

The human body has mechanisms that protect it from sudden fluctuations in air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and changes in atmospheric pressure. But sometimes this protection does not work. Increased air humidity at high temperatures can cause general overheating of the body. This painful condition is called hyperthermia, or heat stroke.

The cause of heat stroke is a violation of the body's thermoregulation, which is expressed in increased heat generation with insufficient heat transfer. Heat accumulated in the body negatively affects the function of the central nervous system. Oxygen starvation develops. Blood viscosity increases and blood circulation is impaired.

Heatstroke can occur when working in stuffy, poorly ventilated rooms, especially if high air temperatures are combined with high humidity. The cause of this condition may also be tight, poorly breathable clothing.

Heatstroke can also occur on outdoors: at high physical activity in a humid, stuffy atmosphere (even in the absence of sun), in calm weather and if the rules for sunbathing are not followed.

In infants, the cause of heatstroke can often be staying in an overheated room, in a crib placed near radiators and central heating pipes.

When overheated, patients develop headaches, dizziness, and tinnitus. They experience extreme thirst and nausea. Worried about weakness, drowsiness. Initially, redness of the skin and its moisture are observed; then the skin becomes dry, pale, cold. There may be fainting. Breathing becomes more frequent, tachycardia develops, and blood pressure drops. Vomiting and nosebleeds may occur.

In severe cases, delayed reactions or agitation, severe headaches, loss of consciousness, convulsions, a rise in body temperature to 39°-41°C, and respiratory depression are observed. Infants experience severe vomiting and diarrhea. In such cases, urgent health care. But first, the patient must be placed in a cool place, in the shade, provided with access to fresh air, freed from tight, constricting clothing, and given a drink cold water, put a cold compress, and, if possible, ice on the head, in the armpits and groin areas (large blood vessels pass there). Water procedures have a good effect: in mild cases, a shower at a temperature of 26-27°C for 5-8 minutes, in more serious cases - a bath at a temperature of 20°C for up to 8 minutes. After the water procedure, it is mandatory to rest in a lying position and drink plenty of fluids. Unlike heat stroke sunstroke there may not be general overheating. It can be caused by direct exposure to sunlight on an uncovered head. There is no pronounced change in thermoregulation. However, the patients' complaints are similar.

Prevention of heat and sunstroke:

To avoid overheating, you need to maintain the microclimate in residential and industrial premises, maintain an optimal drinking regime, and also use rational clothing.

It is recommended to wear clothes made of porous fabrics (cotton, linen, etc.), through which air can easily be exchanged. This is especially true for clothing in the warm season. In the summer, even without taking a special air bath, try to get rid of excess clothing: for example, when working in the garden, take off your shirt or T-shirt.

It is sometimes believed that the more tightly the head is wrapped, the better it is protected from the sun's rays. Often, for this purpose, thick towels are tied around the head, and tall caps are made from newspapers. But all these “hats” interfere with normal heat transfer. Light white a Panama hat, a small light cap with a visor, a cotton scarf, a straw hat will perfectly protect your head from the sun.

Thermoregulation is negatively affected by the subcutaneous fat layer, which is poor in blood vessels. Therefore, overweight people need to be especially careful about overheating.

Long, dark days of winter, time spent sitting in front of the TV or computer, or excessive use of sunscreen - all this can lead to minimizing sun exposure to the human body. Although it may seem like your tan is the only thing that suffers when you don't get enough sunlight, in fact, your health can also be affected. Lack of sunlight can affect a person physically, mentally and emotionally.

Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is a nutrient essential for maintaining a healthy body, including the formation of strong bones and a healthy immune system. Vitamin D is produced when the skin is exposed to the sun, and thus lack of sun exposure can lead to low level vitamin D. A lack of vitamin D can lead to muscle and joint pain, and doctors have also documented a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and an increase in the incidence of heart attack, stroke and heart failure, as well as multiple sclerosis. People with dark skin who live in northern areas are most susceptible to vitamin D deficiency.

Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression caused by a lack of sunlight. People most often suffer from SAD during the winter months, when the days are shorter and darker. Symptoms of SAD include sleepiness, loss of energy and fatigue, overeating, anxiety, mood swings, decreased sex drive, and decreased concentration. Those suffering from this form of depression may also be more prone to illness or infection due to a weakened immune system. The effects of SAD can vary from person to person. While some people experience only minor mood changes, others may find themselves unable to function fully. Treatment for SAD includes the use of light sessions, antidepressants, and complementary therapy. In most cases, SAD symptoms begin to subside with the arrival of spring and the return of sunlight.

Changes in sleep structure

Lack of sun exposure can also affect sleep. Sun exposure helps the body determine when to produce the hormone melatonin. Melatonin helps regulate the body's internal clock, signaling when it's time to go to bed. In a five-day study conducted by researchers in New York State, children were given glasses that blocked the blue light found in sun rays. The results showed that the children had delayed melatonin production and went to bed an average of an hour and a half later than at the start of the study.

Ways to deal with the consequences lack of sun exposure

Exist effective ways to combat the effects of lack of solar radiation. The easiest way to do this safely is to increase your exposure. This means going outside more often sunny days or open the curtains wide to allow sunlight into the room. You should use the recommended amount of sunscreen to prevent your body from being overexposed to UV rays, but avoid overusing protection as this may unnecessarily shield your body from receiving the benefits of the sun. During the winter months, you can combat the lack of sun with the help of special lamps. You can also combat vitamin D deficiency by taking it in the form of a supplement.

“Where the sun rarely shines, the doctor often comes.” So it says folk proverb. How is it really in life? It is well known that the sun's rays have a powerful effect on the human body. And not always positive.

But if you learn to use the light of the sun rationally, it will not only be a morning alarm clock, but also a cure for many diseases, as well as a factor that will improve the condition of the skin. A beautiful tan can add a sophisticated charm to your appearance.

Types and characteristics of solar radiation

The sun generously gives us three types of radiation, which have different effects on the human body.

Visible radiation

Radiation, visible to the eye, are the colors of the rainbow that are familiar to us. This radiation penetrates the skin to a depth of 1 centimeter. The visible spectrum affects nervous system a person, penetrating the retina of the eye. Man has learned to use this measure of influence in everyday life in order to create a harmonious space for his existence.

For example, a room decorated in yellow, orange or green has a positive effect on our mood. Shades of red can stimulate activity, while blue shades can slow down. Purple color depresses the psyche, green calms.

This feature of the influence of all colors of this type of radiation on the human body is often used for practical purposes when decorating the interiors of residential premises and offices.

Ultraviolet radiation

Ultraviolet radiation has the most powerful effect on humans. With a short wavelength, UF rays are extremely energetic. They penetrate only a millimeter into our skin, but they can have both a healing and general strengthening effect and a severely harmful one. It all depends on the dose.

Under the influence of UF radiation, various biologically active substances are produced, which are distributed throughout the body along with the blood, affecting the functioning of all systems and organs.

Human skin heats up under the influence of infrared rays. They are able to penetrate tissue to a depth of 3 centimeters. Under their influence, blood vessels heat up and dilate, and the blood circulation process intensifies. This promotes activation of redox reactions.

Positive effects of the sun on the body

Moderate sun exposure has a good preventive and healing effect. The effect of UF rays varies and is related to the wavelength.

Some rays contribute vitamin D production, other - skin pigmentation(tan formation). It has been scientifically proven that a sufficient amount of vitamin D in the human body is produced under the influence of sunlight. Even a nutritious diet cannot make up for it.

From a lack of this important vitamin, children can develop rickets, so from birth every child needs to receive a sufficient amount of solar radiation. In adults, a lack of vitamin D causes bone fragility and damage to the structure of dental tissue.

Shortwave rays have a strong bactericidal effect on the human body, killing pathogenic microbes. As early as 1903, doctors from Denmark used solar radiation to treat skin tuberculosis.

Physiotherapist Finsen Niels Robert was awarded for his developments in this area. Nobel Prize. The healing power of the sun's light lies in its ability to influence skin receptors, causing complex chemical reactions.

The effect of sunlight on health and mood

The secret of healing and Have a good mood lies in the fact that sunlight tones our nervous system. At the same time, the functioning of the hematopoietic organs is further improved and normalized metabolic processes, and the endocrine glands begin to more actively produce hormones.

Ultraviolet light not only prevents, but also completely cures many diseases: jaundice, rickets, eczema, psoriasis.

It is important to remember that only a moderate dosage of solar radiation has a positive effect on health and mood.

Negative effects of sun rays on humans

Living cells, absorbing ultraviolet radiation, begin to change and divide incorrectly. In this case, all kinds of mutations appear, and healthy cells die.

Eyes often suffer from sun exposure. Reflecting sunlight, water, White sand, snow increase the brightness of the lighting. The result of such irradiation can be inflammation of the connective membrane of the eye or inflammatory processes in the cornea. In particularly serious situations, a person may lose vision for several days.

This is usually the result of solar reflection from snow. It begins with profuse lacrimation and ends with chronic eye irritation. The situation can be aggravated by repeated irradiation.

As a result of strong eye irradiation, many people experience clouding of the lens. In 20% of cases, blindness occurs.

The body's reaction to ultraviolet radiation

All people have different reactions to exposure to ultraviolet light. Sensitivity largely depends on age, natural skin color, condition thyroid gland, as well as the time of year.

Children and the elderly, people with increased thyroid function, fair-skinned people and red-haired people are especially sensitive to the effects of solar radiation. You need to be careful when sunbathing in spring and summer.

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on human skin

Many people, wanting to tan faster, abuse their exposure to the sun. It is a mistake to believe that radiant energy has an exclusively positive effect on the skin, and that tanning is a sign of health.

After just a short period of time in the sun, the skin becomes hot and begins to turn red. Soon the redness will disappear if you leave the sun in time. After a couple of hours it will appear again and last about a day. Successive doses of irradiation will cause the formation of a pigment called tanning.

The desire to quickly get a beautiful tan and a long stay in the sun will give a completely different effect. Sunburn, caused by exposure to UF rays on the skin, is an unpleasant, painful, and even dangerous phenomenon. After a short period of time after prolonged exposure to the sun, the skin turns red and swelling appears on it. Severe burning and painful sensations are just the tip of the iceberg. Toxins that are formed as a result of cell breakdown poison the entire body. As a result - headache, nausea, malaise.

Unwise use of ultraviolet irradiation leads to the fact that the skin thickens in defense. The process of accelerated aging begins. With repeated irradiation, skin cells change and begin to die quickly. The tan becomes uneven, and unsightly pigment spots and moles appear on the skin.

Important! DNA molecules that help restore skin are damaged by repeated irradiation. As a result, the skin begins to generate immature precancerous cells, and sometimes cancerous ones.

Cellular atypia caused by solar radiation can cause types of cancer such as carcinoma and melanoma. Both prolonged exposure to the sun and excessive use of solariums can cause such changes in the body.

Measures to protect against solar radiation

Most residents of the middle zone and northern latitudes are eagerly waiting for spring to bask in the warm rays of the sun. We strive to use the first sunny days as a healing factor, often abusing sun exposure.

You need to take sunbathing wisely, following several life-tested rules:

• Diffuse solar radiation in the shade is recommended for older people and infants, as well as those with problems with the cardiovascular system and those suffering from chronic diseases.
• Even healthy and strong people should limit their time in the sun, and it is recommended to sunbathe only during safe hours, when the sun is least active.
• During the daytime, when solar radiation is strongest, it would be better to protect yourself with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and an umbrella.
• Applying sunscreen good quality with a high protection rate will eliminate many problems.

The amount of solar radiation reaching the earth is related to the time of year. At the equator, this indicator practically does not change. As you move away from the earth's belt, this difference increases.

In winter, the sun is low above the horizon and we get scattered, sliding rays. Their intensity is reduced during this period. In summer, they fall vertically to the surface of the earth, which shortens their path and reduces heat loss as they pass through the atmosphere. Therefore, in winter, solar radiation is the least dangerous.