Not too many people know that there is such a thing as sun poisoning. This happens when the patient is exposed to the sun’s rays for long periods of time. It could be classified as an allergic reaction. It usually affects the parts that are most exposed to the sun. Some people are more prone to experiencing sun poisoning than others due to varied reasons, including genetics, medications, and skin products used.
Sun Poisoning Symptoms to Look For
It is important to quickly recognize the symptoms of sun poisoning. Remember that this condition could actually cause serious consequences, including permanent malfunction of vital organs as well as death. Such symptoms include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Dehydration
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Red skin rash
- Redness and tenderness of skin
- Itching of the skin
- Development of water-filled blisters that could range in size from very small to large
- Flu-like symptoms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance
Still, there are times when the patient has experienced severe sun exposure so that he/she might have:
- Clearly burnt skin
- Skin loss within 4 to 7 days from severe exposure
- Varying levels of skin damage and deterioration
Sun Poisoning Remedies
- The body needs a certain amount of sun exposure for its processes, including as source of vitamin D. Still, it has a certain capacity to withstand the sun’s heat. Excess amounts of this heat can cause the poisoning which could lead to the symptoms listed above.
- Remedies for sun poisoning will vary depending on how much exposure the body was subjected to.
- Often, mild sun poisoning does not need medical attention.Treatment for mild poisoning include:
- Cold water bath
- Cold compress
- Drinking more water and fluids to counteract dehydration
- Some home remedies, including aloe vera can be used to treat rashes
- For severe sun poisoning, it might be necessary for the patient to be brought to a hospital. Usually, IV fluids will be given to quickly treat dehydration and loss of electrolytes. Like in mild sun poisoning, the patient may also have to be given cold water baths.
- Blisters and cracked skin should be treated immediately to prevent infections.
Sun Poisoning Rash Treatment
- Use cold water or cold compress on the affected areas.
- Snap an aloe vera into two and use the sap to soothe the rashes.
- A mixture of potato peels and aloe vera can also soothe the heat.
- Use baking soda mixed with water to relieve the pain.