Sun Poisoning Symptoms

Sometimes, when you need to stay in the sun for a prolonged time, you might experience itching, redness of skin, rashes or blisters on the skin. You may also suffer from fatigue, nausea, fatigue, etc. All these signs are indicative of sun poisoning. Well, what is sun poisoning? Sun poisoning is referred to as an allergic reaction developed to overexposure to the sun. It affects the skin areas that are most exposed to sunlight. It results from the fundamental changes in the skin’s capability to withstand the sunrays. It may be associated with certain medications or skin creams.

Causes of Sun Poisoning

An exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun for a prolonged time is the main cause of sun poisoning. It is more frequently seen during the hot summer, when UV rays are the strongest. Light-skinned people contain little amount of protective melanin pigments. As a result, they are more prone to sun poisoning. However, every person who is excessively exposed to sunlight may suffer from sun poisoning symptoms. The chances of sun poisoning increase when sun exposure is accompanied by the use of a variety of chemicals, drugs and cosmetics. Use of certain drugs such as sulfa-containing drugs, different tranquilizers, medication for hypertension, medications for diabetes and fungal infections and birth control pills can trigger sun poisoning. Direct contact with certain substances such as detergents, deodorant bar soaps, shampoos and various cosmetics and toiletries, followed by sun exposure also can lead to sun poisoning. Certain chemicals found in various vegetables and fruits are also responsible for photosensitive reactions.

Sun Poisoning Symptoms

There are two types of sun poisoning. In the first type, there may be reaction to sunrays in the form of red, bumpy skin with rashes. Several people become more sensitive to skin changes due to use of cosmetics or perfumes. The second type of sun poisoning involves heat stroke, sunstroke and heat prostration. It happens because of dehydration and loss of electrolytes.

The symptoms of sun poisoning may be mild or severe, depending upon the duration of exposure, intensity of sunrays and your body’s capacity to withstand the sunrays. Some of the common symptoms of sun poisoning are:

• Redness and tenderness of skin
• Red skin rash
• Itching of the skin
• Development of blisters - very small to large water-filled
• Fever
• Chills
• Flu-like symptoms
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Dehydration
• Chills
• Fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance

An excess exposure to the sun can result in various levels of skin deterioration and damage. There may be skin loss within 4-7 days after exposure in some severe cases. In case of severe sun poisoning, it may lead to premature aging, wrinkle formation and even skin cancer (malignant melanoma).

Treatment and Prevention of Sun Poisoning

Mild sun poisoning symptoms don’t require any medical attention. In case of severe symptoms, cold water bath or application of cool compresses is recommended. Drink adequate amount of water to cure dehydration. The medications such as aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen or acetaminophen are recommended to relieve the pains. Avoid subsequent sun exposure, until the sun poisoning symptoms are completely cured. In case of constant itching and blister formation, you should immediately consult a dermatologist.

The most important preventive measure is to avoid the sunlight. However, it may not be possible every time. Use of sunscreen creams and lotions is strongly recommended when exposed to the sun. Use the cosmetics that contain effective sun-blocking agents. If you are taking the medications that can trigger sun poisoning, then avoid exposure to the sun as much as possible. Cover the maximum body parts with sun-coat, gloves and scarf. Avoid using the cosmetics that can trigger the sun sensitivity.