Over the past couple of years, I have written columns about over exposure to the sun and the importance of protecting your self from such occurrences. There is certainly more preparation needed than just sunscreen and a 500ml bottle of neon coloured “sports drink”. It is amazing that at this time of year in this weather many people are unaware of the risks of over exposure to sun and heat.

In the dead of January when depression and winter hit the hardest, to most people, the idea of lying in 38-degree Okanagan heat is a good idea. In July however it is, simply put, dumb.

I will now dispel a few myths for you: sunscreen does not protect you from overexposure to the sun wearing a hat will not protect you from overexposure to the sun drinking water or wearing sunglasses will not protect you from overexposure to the sun. The fact is, absolutely nothing will protect you from overexposure to the sun except your brain, using it that is. Does this mean that we are doomed and where should we hide?

Common sense should dictate to us that all of the above listed items that will not protect us from overexposure would protect us somewhat from limited exposure. Depending on these things to protect you no matter what, is kind of like driving off a cliff with your seatbelt on.

Signs of over exposure to the heat or sun:

Sunburn - over exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) rays found in sunlight.

Heat cramps - a form of muscle cramps brought on by exertion and insufficient salt.

Heat exhaustion - due to excessive water loss.

Heat Stroke or sunstroke - failure of the body’s heat controlling mechanisms (this is an emergency and requires immediate attention).

Some of the above conditions you may have already experienced in the past and put it down to something you ate or drank however, you need to be aware of the symptoms.

There are some homeopathic remedies that can be used if you do experience any of the above situations but if the symptoms are severe do not wait to seek out medical advice.

Glonoine - An excellent remedy after over-exposure to sun that borders on sunstroke. Generally, there will be mental confusion, with the sense that the head is bursting as well as blood rushing to the head.

Belladonna - The person needing this remedy will most likely have a very red, hot face and a very bad, throbbing headache accompanied by sensitivity to light. This remedy is very similar to the above-mentioned Glonoine, so if there is no improvement from Belladonna try Glonoine or vice versa.

Cuprum metallicum - Severe muscle cramping or twitching after over-exposure to the sun.

Cantharis - This is an excellent remedy to consider if there is sunburn that has started to blister. This remedy is also great for other types of burns.

Calendula - This is an excellent remedy to take internally, as well as to apply externally for any type of sunburn, especially after the blisters have broken.

Urtica urens - is a good remedy for just ordinary sunburn.

All of the above remedies you can take a 30CH potency every 15 minutes for five or six doses. If relief is not experienced, find the next best remedy or consult your homeopath. Most of these remedies are available through your homeopath.

Stay hydrated with spring water, things like, pop and sugar-laden “sports drinks” are of no use and can actually exasperate the situation. Remember that true sunstroke may require immediate medical attention. If the body temperature rises too rapidly, this can lead to collapse. Belladonna or Glonoine can be administered if this happens while arranging for medical intervention. Stay cool.