What is sun poisoning?

Sun poisoning, also known as sunburn, isn't a specific illness but rather a severe sunburn. It's a reaction to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources like tanning beds. While technically not poisoning, the term reflects the severity of the reaction.

Here's some key information about sun poisoning:

Symptoms: Sun poisoning goes beyond a simple, mild sunburn. Symptoms can include:

• Severe pain and burning: The affected skin is extremely tender to the touch.
• Extensive redness and swelling: The redness can be widespread, affecting large areas of skin.
• Blistering: Large, fluid-filled blisters may develop.
• Fever: A high fever (over 100°F or 38°C) is a common sign of severe sun poisoning.
• Chills: Feeling cold and shivering despite a fever.
• Headache: A significant headache can accompany the other symptoms.
• Nausea and vomiting: These are signs of more serious systemic involvement.
• Dehydration: Loss of fluids through sweating and potential vomiting.
• Weakness and dizziness: General feeling of malaise and lightheadedness.
• Difficulty sleeping: Discomfort from the sunburn can interfere with sleep.

Severity: Sun poisoning can range in severity. Mild cases involve redness, pain, and some swelling, while severe cases involve extensive blistering, fever, and systemic symptoms requiring medical attention.

Treatment: Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. This typically includes:

• Cooling the affected area: Cool compresses or a cool bath can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and fever.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Moisturizing: Aloe vera gel or other soothing lotions can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce discomfort.
• Avoiding further sun exposure: This is crucial to prevent further damage.
• Medical attention: Seek medical attention if you experience a high fever, severe blistering, widespread swelling, nausea, vomiting, or signs of dehydration. Severe cases may require intravenous fluids or other medical interventions.

Prevention: The best way to avoid sun poisoning is to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure. This includes:

• Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher: Apply liberally and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
• Seeking shade during peak sun hours: Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wearing protective clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, a hat, and sunglasses.

Sun poisoning is a serious condition, and if you experience severe symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice immediately. Don't underestimate the power of the sun's rays.