Sun poisoning is a severe form of sunburn, representing an intense reaction to ultraviolet (UV) radiation that goes beyond the typical redness and discomfort of a mild sunburn. It is not an actual poisoning, but rather the body’s heightened response to significant UV damage.
Understanding Sun Poisoning Symptoms
Skin reactions can include severe redness, significant swelling, and widespread blisters. These visible skin changes are often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as intense pain, itching, or a rash that may appear as hives or small bumps. Individuals may also experience flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, headache, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms typically begin to appear several hours to a day after sun exposure and can worsen over the subsequent 24 to 36 hours.
How Long Sun Poisoning Typically Lasts
The duration of sun poisoning can vary, ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the reaction and individual factors. Milder cases might resolve within two to three days, while severe instances, particularly those with extensive blistering, could take up to a couple of weeks for the skin to return to its normal state. Factors influencing this timeline include the intensity and duration of sun exposure, a person’s inherent skin sensitivity, and how quickly treatment begins. While the most intense symptoms typically subside within a few days, the affected skin may remain sensitive, discolored, or peel for a longer period.
Relief and Recovery Strategies
Immediate relief measures focus on cooling the skin and alleviating discomfort. Taking cool baths or showers, or applying cool compresses to the affected areas, can help reduce heat and pain. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is important, as sun poisoning can lead to dehydration, which can worsen symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
For skin care, apply soothing lotions like aloe vera gel or a fragrance-free moisturizer for relief and healing. Hydrocortisone cream may also be used to alleviate itching and inflammation. It is important to avoid further sun exposure while the skin heals and to protect the affected areas with loose clothing. Blisters should not be picked or popped, as this can increase the risk of infection and scarring.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Seek medical attention for sun poisoning if there is extensive or severe blistering covering a significant portion of the body, or if the pain is unbearable. Seek immediate medical evaluation for a high fever (above 102°F/39°C) or signs of infection such as pus, increasing pain, or red streaks around the affected area.
Signs of dehydration, including dizziness, extreme thirst, reduced urination, confusion, or disorientation, also require prompt medical care. If the rash or swelling extends beyond the directly exposed area, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of home care, seeking professional medical advice is recommended.
Preventing Sun Poisoning
Preventing sun poisoning involves consistent protection from harmful UV radiation. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours, or more often after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses, to further shield the skin from UV rays.
Seek shade, especially during peak UV hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM, to significantly reduce exposure. Gradually increasing sun exposure over time can help individuals susceptible to severe reactions. It is also advisable to discuss with a doctor if any current medications might increase sun sensitivity, as certain drugs can make the skin more prone to sun damage.