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Sunburn
Overview:
Most sunburn is actually a first degree burn, and is accompanied by the familiar symptoms of tender reddened skin. More severe burns, with bright red colouring, swelling and blistering indicate that the burn has penetrated the surface layer of the skin and become a second degree burn.
Signs and Symptoms:
* Red or blistered skin following exposure to the sun.
* The presence of headache, nausea and fever or chills may indicate sunstroke.
* Excessive sun exposure is a risk factor for skin cancer.
Causes and Organs Affected:
The sun has two types of ultraviolet radiation important in a discussion of damaging effects to the skin. It is UVB rays which cause sunburn and the potential for skin cancer, although UVA radiation is now also considered to contribute to premature ageing and wrinkling. Reflected sunlight from sand, water or snow can also cause sunburn.
Certain drugs can intensify the harmful effects of UV radiation.
Risk Factor:
People with fair skin are more likely to sunburn than are people with dark skin. That's because people with darker skin have more melanin, which offers some protection from sunburn but not from UV-induced skin damage.
Treatment:
Sunburn treatment doesn't heal your skin or prevent damage to your skin, but it can reduce pain, swelling and discomfort. You may find self-care measures helpful. These include taking a nonprescription anti-inflammatory medication, applying a cool compress and applying an aloe vera lotion. Sunburn typically resolves on its own within days or weeks, depending on the severity of the burn.
Lifestyle Management:
Eat light meals and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee, which can cause further dehydration.
When your skin peels or the blisters break, gently remove the dried skin and apply an antiseptic ointment or cream to the skin beneath to prevent infection.