Overview

Sunburn is caused by the skin's reaction to ultraviolet exposure. It appears as reddening and tenderness of the skin and typically occurs between 12 and 24 hours after the exposure. It can develop blisters and shedding of the outer layer of skin. Some oral medications used for other medical conditions, most ordinarily hydrochlorothiazide (a vital sign medication) may make the skin more sensitive to sun burning.

First Aid Guide

If you have suffered sunburn:

Ø     Further direct sun exposure should be avoided for a few days.

Ø     Cool water or cool milk soaks may help cool and soothe the affected areas.

Ø     Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help decrease the redness and pain.

Ø     Applying a greasy cream or ointment may actually make the pain worse by trapping the heat on the skin.

Ø     Drink a lot of fluids.

Do not plan to break any blisters which will form; you'll cover these with gauze if necessary. If any break on their own, a topical antibiotic ointment is often applied. A moisturizer can help with skin peeling afterward. Avoid topical products that end in "-caine" as they can sometimes further irritate the skin.

Prevention is very important. To reduce risk of carcinoma later in life, sunburns should be prevented.

Ø     Avoid direct sun in the middle of the day (10 AM to 3 PM). Remember: snow and water reflect light to the skin, and clouds still let tons of sunshine through, so you'll still be exposed to ultraviolet even on cloudy days.

Ø     Use a hat with a wide brim. A baseball hat does not give much protection.

Ø     Cover up with tightly woven clothing. Some manufacturers make specialty clothing with a high sun protection factor (SPF) rating, otherwise you can buy a special ingredient to be added to your washer which will "wash" SPF into your clothing.

Ø     Use sunscreen on all exposed skin areas, including the lips, before going outdoors. A broad spectrum (blocks UVB and UVA light), with an SPF of a minimum of 30, is best. Apply generously half-hour before going outdoors, and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating tons .

Ø     Do not use tanning beds!

Who's at risk?

Sunburn occurs in people of all ages, particularly those with fair skin.

Signs and Symptoms

Sunburn may occur on any sun-exposed area. Sunburn appears as redness within 4 hours following exposure followed by deep redness and blister formation in severe situations. Long-lasting redness could also be present for weeks after the particular burn.

When to Seek Medical Care

See your doctor if there is severe discomfort and inflammation.

Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe

Ø  Cool compresses for severe sunburn.

Ø  Cool milk soaks are an alternative.

Ø  Acetaminophen and ibuprofen to help decrease the redness and relieve the discomfort.

Ø  For severe reactions, prednisone, an oral steroid, may also help reduce the inflammation.

Notice: Please consult your doctor before following any instruction of www.myonlinedoctor.co.in