Sun Poisoning Rash

Sun poisoning refers to a condition where the skin reacts to prolonged exposure to the sun. The immediate effects are generally skin redness, or a rash breakout. Sunburn is part of sun poisoning, where other types of the same include, polymorphous light eruption or PMLE, which is an outbreak that doesn't find its cause in any disease, or reaction to drugs. People who are sensitive to sunlight, and who's bodies aren't used to the harsh sunrays, are bound to get PMLE, where more women than men are affected by this type of sun poisoning.

Our skin colors vary because of the intensity of sunlight in our native region, that is passed down from our ancestors even if we aren't physically present in a region that defines our skin tone. Our skin can take the heat of the sun if it were a darker complexion, whereas lighter tones cannot (due to a lack of melanin) take it. That is why it is important for people to step outside with sunscreen, or a trusty sunblock. Another kind of sun poisoning is called solar urticaria, which is a condition where the skin immediately reacts to sunlight when one steps outside. The term sunburn is often used for one experiencing a reaction to the sun.

Sun Poisoning Rash Symptoms

A sunburn when experienced, isn't one that is pleasant. It cannot be helped to a major extent, but there are ways on how to lessen the intensity of a sunburn, and how to of course prevent one in the first place. Let's take a look at the symptoms that come forth because of a sunburn.

• Nausea
• Skin redness
• Dizziness
• Blisters
• Tingling sensation
• Swelling

Extreme Symptoms that Need Immediate Medical Assistance

• Upset stomach
• Feeling faint
• Dehydration
• Headaches
• Chills
• Face starts to swell
• Painful blisters
• Feeling confused
• Fever
• Blister spreads over a large area

Symptoms of Solar Urticaria

• Feeling dizzy
• Wheezing
• Itchy skin
• Feeling faint
• Skin redness
• Wheals start forming

Symptoms of PMLE

• Headaches
• Feeling weak
• Nausea
• Chills

Sun Poisoning Rash Treatment

The sun poisoning symptoms occur mainly because of heat being trapped in the body. During exposure to the harsh rays of the sun, our body get dehydrated. Hence, the main idea is to draw out the heat, while keeping the body cool, and hydrated. Make sure you take cold showers, avoiding scalding water. Stop using harsh soaps (opt for all-organic soaps) while taking a bath and do not rub your skin while drying yourself off. Just pat gently with a clean, soft towel. The purpose of this is to keep the body cool, as well as dry. You can also carry with you around the house, a cold compress to keep your body cool.

Be careful what medications you take if you are susceptible to sunburns; things like acne medication, tetracycline and even contraceptives (oral), can make you sensitive to sunlight. Those with certain illnesses, like vitiligo, or other skin diseases, are more prone to sun poisoning related problems. Medication like low-dose antimalarials can help, including topical corticosteroids. It is important to use a sunscreen 30 minutes before stepping out into the sun (or as directed by the product), with an SPF of at least 30.

Home Remedies for Sun Poisoning (Mild Cases)

• Collect potato peels and dice them into small pieces. Mix these fine pieces in a cup of aloe vera lotion and 3 teaspoons of hydrocortisone cream. Store this mixture in a container with an airtight lid, and then refrigerate this for an hour. Use this mixture on the areas that have been injured - it'll also help with the itching. Simply cutting a potato and applying its juice, will help just as much.
• Sponging the area with chamomile steeped in water, helps speed up recovery.
• You could also make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it on the afflicted area to reduce pain.
• Calamine lotion can be used to relieve itching.
• Drink lots of fluids and eat foods rich in antioxidants. Drinking green tea has been found to help with the symptoms. Consume foods that are rich in vitamins B, C, D, and E and also beta-carotene.

Over-the-counter pain relievers may be taken to ease intense pain. If the sun poisoning case is very serious, one may be required to be admitted to the hospital where steroids (to reduce inflammation) and intravenous fluids may be administered.

Sunburns are a very common occurrence during the summer season, and certain people are more prone to it than others. For such people, taking preventive measures is the best option. Try to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and use sun-protective clothes and gear when stepping outside, preferably cotton wear (to help the skin breathe), coupled with a good pair of sunglasses, and a wide brimmed hat.