7 reasons why you feel so tired after being in the sun

Spending time in the sun can feel tired because your body must use more energy to keep you cool at warmer temperatures, especially if you are physically active or do not drink enough liquids. However, there are other potential explanations to explain why you feel tired in the sun.

1. Body temperature regulation requires energy

As the body temperature increases, the hypothalamus (a structure in the brain) sends instructions to other systems to help cool the body.

Blood vessels, sweat glands and skin regulate body temperature. The blood vessels expand (open) to allow more blood to reach the surface of the skin and release heat. The sweating glands bring water to the surface of the skin, where it evaporates to cool the body.

Your body needs energy to perform these processes to cool your body, which may feel tired.

2. You are not hydrated properly

Dehydration is common when you spend a lot of time in the sun. Your body is sweating to cool, which leads to an increase in water and the loss of electrolyte.

In addition to feeling tired, dehydration can cause:

• Confusion
• Decrease in urinary flow
• Dizziness and / or dizziness
• Dry skin
• Faster breathing and heart rate
• Increase in thirst

3. You drink bad things

Drinks that many people like to sip in summer, such as those containing alcohol – can contribute to dehydration. Consumption of excess caffeinated drinks can also contribute to dehydration. One of the most common signs of dehydration is fatigue.

To help counter this, alternate these drinks with natural water or drinks with added electrolytes.

4. It’s wet outside

If it is sunny and humid outside, your body will have to work even harder than usual to refresh you, leaving you tired. Moisture causes more humidity in the air and the more humidity is high, the more difficult it is for sweat to evaporate from your skin to cool you.

5. Your internal clock makes you sleep

Your circadian pace, otherwise known as your internal clock, causes a drop in your awakening cycle in the middle of the afternoon. It is also the same period of the day when the sun is the brightest. Awakening drops occur, whether you are in the sun or not.

6. You are more active

Hot temperatures and sunny sky can motivate people to be more active. However, if you do more activity than you are used to, it may feel tired. When you exercise or play in the sun, drink more water and take breed breaks to cool off.

7. You eat change habits

Sunny days are popular moments for celebrations, which often means eating differently from the fact that you are used to it. Meals or festive drinks containing high quantities of sugar can cause blood sugar fluctuations. When blood sugar is too low or too high, it can cause fatigue.

Feeling sleeping after a meal is a condition called “postprandial drowsiness”. After eating, the hormones that help you feel alert decrease. Brain activity also slows down while your body digests your food, which tires you.

Foods rich in carbohydrates and fats are more likely to feel tired after a meal.

Tips to prevent sun fatigue

To avoid sun fatigue, follow these tips:

• Avoid being outside when humidity is high
• Drink a lot of water or drinks with electrolytes (you can assess how hydrated you are depending on the color of your urine; it must be pale yellow when you are properly hydrated)
• Plan outdoor activities during the cooler games of the day (usually mornings and evenings)
• Take frequent breaks, either in the shade or inside

Take additional care if you:

• Exercise outside
• Are over 65
• Are pregnant
• Have medical conditions (such as asthma or heart disease)

When to consult a doctor

Feel tired after being in the sun can be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Look for a doctor if you have the following symptoms:

• Cold, pale or moist skin
• Dizziness
• Excessive sweating
• Fainting
• Quick heart rate
• Headache
• Nausea and / or vomiting

Look for immediate medical care if you have these additional heat stroke signs – a potentially fatal condition:

• Confusion
• 103 degree fever fahrenheit or more
• Wheel skin, hot, dry (or humid)
• Loss of consciousness