Sun Poisoning Treatment

Sun poisoning is a terminology usually used to describe a hypersensitive reaction to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. The medical condition also known as sunburn or photodermatitis results in rashes, itching and dry skin on a skin surface that was exposed to the sun, like the back of the neck or the hands. Choosing the effective sun poisoning treatment is based on the actual cause of the condition.

While the sun's radiation is one of the causative factors for the symptoms of the condition, some further causes like a drug can trigger the allergy too. A phototoxic substance like a skin lightening cream might make the skin more susceptible to the sun's UV rays, thus making it more sensitive to sun poisoning. Certain fragrances added in perfumes or sunscreens, the active ingredient of some sunscreens PABA, antibiotics like tetracycline and fluroquinolone, hexachlorophene present in antibacterial soaps and an existing disease like pellagra or photoallergy can make you susceptible to sun poisoning. Overexposure to tanning bed rays can also result in the condition. Here are some of the common symptoms of sun poisoning.

Sun Poisoning Symptoms

In addition to the regular symptoms of sunburn like itching, peeling and redness, sun poisoning may result in certain other symptoms. The other sun poisoning symptoms include:

• Sun poisoning blisters that can become infected
• Red skin rash
• Chills and fever
• Fatigue
• Itching
• Nausea
• Headache and dizziness
• Rapid pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance

Treatment for Sun Poisoning

A severe sunburn or sun poisoning may not require serious medical attention. Certain remedies like applying cool compresses, consuming painkillers and avoiding subsequent exposures to the sun until the burn has healed can help relieve the irritating and painful sun poisoning symptoms. Some other effective sun poisoning treatments include:

• Applying aloe vera gel on the affected part to help reduce and soothe the pain and subside the swelling. Read more on sunburn itch relief.
• Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
• Application of calamine lotion or apple cider vinegar.
• You can soak some towels in cool water and wrap them around the affected skin for at least ten minutes at a time through the day.
• Instead of using harsh soaps on your skin that can cause further irritation, opt for gentle natural soaps or an oatmeal bath instead. Read more on oatmeal bath for sunburn.
• Avoid any oils or perfumes and deodorants on the skin.
• Cucumber and potato juices are also believed to help soothe the skin and reduce any irritation.
• Certain dietary supplements including vitamin B supplements, the best source of which is dairy foods. Vitamin C, D, and E are also to be consumed. Beta carotene present in carrots, protein and omega 3 essential fatty acids found in seafood is also useful. Green tea with its antioxidant properties can help relieve the symptoms.
• Prescribed corticosteroid creams are effective treatments for sunburn which help relieve the pain, redness and itching.
• Anti inflammatory medications like aspirin and ibuprofen can provide relief from the pain.
• For a severe reaction, steroids can be also be administered.

Although these home remedies for sunburn and sun poisoning may help, in case you are suffer from extreme pain or vomiting or if your fever grows over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, head to an emergency room immediately. However, the best course of action to avoid this painful ordeal is to take effective preventive measures which can include avoiding sunlight especially in the afternoons when the rays of the sun are too strong. Make sure you use a hat, a scarf or other sun protective clothing when stepping out of the house and do not forget the absolutely essential sunscreen. After all the best way to prevent sun poisoning is not to let it happen in the first place.