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Sunburns

What Is Sunburn?

Sunburn is a skin reaction caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. It leads to red, painful, and inflamed skin that can peel after a few days.

Sunburn is a form of radiation burn that damages the DNA in skin cells. Repeated sunburns increase the risk of premature aging and skin cancers, including melanoma.

What Are the Symptoms of Sunburn?

Symptoms usually appear within a few hours of sun exposure and may worsen over the next 24 to 48 hours.

Common Symptoms Include:

  • Redness and tenderness of the skin
  • Warmth or heat radiating from the affected area
  • Swelling and pain
  • Blistering in severe cases
  • Peeling skin after a few days
  • Headache, fever, or fatigue (in cases of extensive sunburn)

What Causes Sunburn?

Sunburn occurs when UV radiation penetrates the skin and damages the DNA in skin cells. This triggers inflammation and an immune response.

Common Risk Factors Include:

  • Prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
  • Light skin, blue or green eyes, or red or blond hair
  • Certain medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight (e.g., antibiotics, acne treatments)
  • High altitudes or reflective surfaces like water, sand, or snow
  • Lack of protective clothing or sunscreen

How Is Sunburn Diagnosed?

Sunburn is usually diagnosed based on visible symptoms and history of sun exposure.

Severity is categorized as:

  • Mild: Redness and soreness without blistering
  • Moderate: Red, swollen, painful skin with possible blistering
  • Severe: Widespread blistering, dehydration, or systemic symptoms such as fever and chills

If the sunburn is accompanied by confusion, fainting, or signs of heatstroke, medical attention is needed.

How Is Sunburn Treated?

There is no cure for sunburn, but treatments can relieve symptoms and help the skin heal.

Self-Care and Treatment Options:

  • Cool compresses or showers: Help reduce heat and inflammation
  • Moisturizers with aloe vera or soy: Soothe dry or irritated skin
  • Over-the-counter pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and swelling
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to replace moisture lost through damaged skin
  • Avoid further sun exposure: Stay indoors or wear protective clothing until healed
  • Do not pop blisters: Let them heal naturally to avoid infection

Complications of Severe Sunburn

Repeated or severe sunburns can lead to:

  • Skin infections from damaged or blistered skin
  • Premature aging such as wrinkles and sunspots
  • Increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma
  • Heatstroke in extreme cases of sun exposure

How to Prevent Sunburn

Tips for Sun Protection:

  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days
  • Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
  • Stay in the shade during midday hours
  • Be cautious near reflective surfaces like water and snow
  • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help if:

  • You have severe blistering over a large area
  • The sunburn is accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, or confusion
  • There are signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine)
  • The skin shows signs of infection (pus, swelling, or increasing pain)