Sun poisoning, medically known as photodermatitis, is an allergic reaction brought on by exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. It is most common during the summer months when ultraviolet light is at its strongest, but can occur at any time during the year.
Sun poisoning is usually associated with sunburn and many people use the terms interchangeably. Sun poisoning is actually a more serious condition that may require emergency medical treatment.
Risk Factors for Sun Poisoning
Sun poisoning is caused by overexposure to sunlight or tanning lamps. Staying out in the sun after you have begun to sunburn puts you at great risk for sun poisoning. Individuals who are sun sensitive, fair-skinned or have experienced sun poisoning in the past may begin to show symptoms of sun poisoning after only a few minutes of sunlight exposure.
Medications that create photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light) are another risk factor in sun poisoning. These medications include various antibiotics (especially tetracycline), birth control pills, sulfa drugs, tranquilizers, and drugs used in the treatment of high blood pressure and diabetes. St. John’s Wort, used as a natural remedy for depression, can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about photosensitivity and sun precautions when you are prescribed a new medication or considering an herbal treatment.
Some cosmetic products, such as lotions, cortisone creams, lip balms, fragrances, shampoos, bar soaps, and antibacterial soaps, increase sun sensitivity and put you at risk for developing sun poisoning. Oddly enough, toiletries containing the common sunscreen ingredient PABA are among these products.
Health problems such as Lupus Erythematosus, Porphyria, Pellagra, diabetes, and thyroid disease are known for increasing sensitivity to sunlight. Even a simple infection, which triggers your immune system, can increase your risk of sun poisoning.
Sun Poisoning Symptoms
The symptoms of sun poisoning may include one or more of the following:
Nausea
Fever
Chills
Rapid pulse
Rapid breathing
Fatigue
Dizziness
Dehydration
Electrolyte imbalance
Shock
Loss of consciousness
Skin reactions may include:
Redness (sunburn, which often precedes sun poisoning)
Bumps
Hives
Red blotches
Swelling
Itching
Burning sensation
Rash (the sun poisoning rash usually resembles small blisters)
Sun Poisoning Treatment
Severe cases of sun poisoning – especially ones that involve shock, loss of consciousness, extreme dehydration, rapid pulse and/or breathing, or a sun poisoning rash with oozing blisters – need immediate medical treatment. If you are unsure of the severity of your sun poisoning, seek medical advice by calling your doctor or local emergency room physician. Sun poisoning treatments in these cases may include IV fluids, steroid therapy, prescription pain medications and possibly treatment in a burn unit. First aid treatment on the way to medical assistance can include giving the individual cool (not cold) water and applying cool (not cold) compresses.
Mild cases of sun poisoning can be treated at home using standard sunburn remedies:
Apply cool compresses on the affected areas. Use plain water or a mixture of half vinegar and half water.
Soak in a bathtub filled with a mixture of cool or tepid water and a couple handfuls of oatmeal.
Apply Aloe Vera gel.
Apply Calamine lotion, especially when a blistered sun poisoning rash is present.
Do not use lotions that contain topical anesthetics, especially the ingredient benzocaine, as these can cause allergic reactions and further irritate the reaction of sun poisoning.
Drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, preferably water, to combat dehydration. Electrolyte balancing fluids, such as Gatorade or Pedialyte, are also recommended.
Stay out of the sun, especially during the intense sunlight hours of 10 am to 3 pm, until you fully recover. If you must go out, wear protective clothing.
For sun poisoning cases that are more involved, yet still mild enough to treat at home, add an antihistamine (to reduce the symptoms of the allergic reaction) and an over-the-counter pain reliever to the treatments listed above. Be sure to get plenty of rest. See your doctor if the sun poisoning rash blisters become infected or if you have any additional concerns.
Sources:
MDAvice.com
eMedicineHealth
MedicineNet.com
Skincare.LoveToKnow.com
