Sunburn is an inflammatory response triggered by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When skin cells absorb too much UV light, it causes damage that the body attempts to repair, leading to various symptoms.
How Sunburn Affects the Body
Sunburn can lead to systemic effects beyond the skin. When UV radiation damages skin cells, the body releases inflammatory mediators. These chemicals contribute to redness, swelling, and pain in the affected skin, and can also enter the bloodstream, causing a widespread systemic response.
The circulation of these inflammatory chemicals can induce a “flu-like” reaction. This systemic inflammation can result in malaise, fatigue, and muscle aches or body pain. The body’s immune system, reacting to cellular damage, contributes to this soreness.
Severe sunburn can also lead to dehydration due to fluid loss from damaged skin. When compromised, the skin loses significant water, disrupting the body’s electrolyte balance. This balance is crucial for proper muscle function and nerve signaling. An electrolyte imbalance can contribute to muscle cramps, weakness, and overall body aches.
Relieving Sunburn Discomfort
Alleviating the discomfort from sunburn, including any associated muscle aches, involves several at-home strategies. Taking cool baths or showers can help reduce skin temperature and soothe the burning sensation. Adding a small amount of colloidal oatmeal to bathwater may also provide additional relief for irritated skin.
After a cool bath, gently pat the skin dry and apply a moisturizer containing aloe vera or soy to help hydrate the skin and reduce peeling. Keeping the skin moisturized can help manage the tightness and discomfort often felt with sunburn. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate both skin pain and systemic muscle aches.
Staying well-hydrated is also important to counteract any fluid loss from the sunburn and support overall body function. Drinking plenty of water helps the body recover and can mitigate muscle soreness related to dehydration. Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton can prevent further irritation to sensitive skin and allow for better air circulation, aiding in comfort.
Preventing Future Sunburns
Protecting the skin from harmful UV radiation is the most effective way to avoid the discomfort of sunburn and its systemic effects. Seeking shade, especially during the peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM, significantly reduces UV exposure. This simple measure can prevent a substantial amount of sun damage.
Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats, provides a physical barrier against UV rays. Fabrics with a high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) offer even greater defense. Additionally, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin is a crucial preventive step.
Sunscreen should be applied generously at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours, or more frequently after swimming or sweating. Consistent use of these preventive measures helps maintain skin health and prevents the inflammatory cascade that can lead to muscle aches and body pain. These habits are especially important for individuals who spend extended periods outdoors.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most sunburns resolve with home care, certain symptoms indicate a need for medical attention. If the sunburn covers a large area of the body and develops extensive blistering, or if the blisters show signs of infection such as pus or increasing tenderness, professional evaluation is warranted. These signs suggest a more severe burn or a complication that requires treatment.
Severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medication, a high fever (above 103°F or 39.4°C), chills, or confusion accompanying the sunburn are also serious indicators. These symptoms can point to sunstroke or a severe systemic reaction to the burn. Additionally, signs of dehydration, such as extreme thirst, reduced urination, dizziness, or weakness, require prompt medical consultation. Addressing these symptoms quickly can prevent further complications and ensure proper recovery.