Treatment for sunburn
November 14, 2008
Too much exposure to sun or sun-equivalent exposure can result in sunburn. Any one who is out in the sun is likely to develop this condition. Sunburn can also be due to improper use of tanning bed. In its extreme form, sunburn can be fatal as it leads to sun poisoning. The root cause of this irregularity is skin inflammation as a result of sun’s powerful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Skin can be damaged within half an hour of the exposure. UV rays affect light-skinned people more adversely. Both UVA and UVB rays are found to cause sunburn.
The most frequent symptoms of sunburn include redness and irritation on the skin surface. If left untreated, sunburn can be fatal as it results in decreased blood circulation to vital organs. If exposed to sun continuously for a longer period, skin gets blistered and massive fluid loss is caused. Other common symptoms of sunburn include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting. Symptoms of sunburn are similar to that of flu. If exposed to sun continuously for four days, without adequate preventive measures, skin is likely to peel off in the form of big blisters.
It is always advisable to be well equipped with sun-block measures while going out in the sun since prevention is always better than cure. Mild sunburn can be treated with cold compressors. Aloe plant jelly is also found to work wonders in sunburn treatment. Burow solutions meant for sunburn treatment are available in drug stores. It is also advisable to pour cold (not too cold) water on your body. If you had sunburn, keep away from all scrubs, oils and perfumes till your body is fully cured. After the cold bath, gently dry yourself with a soft towel. Mild skin moisturisers can be applied on the affected parts. Silver sulfadiazine (1% cream, Thermazene) is the most widely used sunburn medication. But be cautious regarding its use on face. If yours is a case of severe sunburn, it is better to consult a doctor than self-administering medications.

































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