A sunburn is normally caused by the burning of living tissue like the skin because of overexposure of ultraviolet heat coming from the sun’s rays. On the other hand, not all overexposure of UV rays can cause damage; studies shows that habitual limited exposure to the sun produces vitamin D that is beneficial to the skin.
Most people had experienced getting sunburned especially if you’re in the beach, goes fishing, or working in the yard. This can be disabling and causes discomfort. The outcome of this burn is soreness of the skin and damage will start 30 minutes upon exposure. Mild giddiness, experience weakness or tiredness and a ruddy skin that is warm to touch are the usual symptoms that a person will experience. If a person gets too much sun exposure, he or she will experience insufficient transmission of oxygen to vital organs and dehydration that could lead to death. Other familiar symptoms consist of fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, blistering, and skin loss.
If you experience severe pain and blistering, headache, confusion and fainting, immediately seek help with your medical doctor or go to a hospital’s emergency department. The doctor will perform a thorough physical examination to conclude that you have a sunburn and to what degree. For patients who have other medical problems, laboratory tests might be taken to determine the severity of your injury.
There are several self-care tips that helps us prevent getting sunburned. Do not expose yourself to the sun’s rays from 10am till 2pm. These are the times when the sun’s rays are very extreme. Secondly, cover your exposed skin. Use an umbrella or a hat or wear long sleeves shirt to prevent the sun’s rays in damaging your skin. Third, use sunscreen lotion that gives sufficient protection against UVA and UVB (Ultraviolet B) rays. This lotion should be applied half an hour before exposing yourself to the sun and re-apply once more when you arrive at your home or after swimming.
If a person experiences discomfort due to overexposure of the sun, these are its first aid treatments. For mild sunburn, use a cold compress with milk and water. Soak a clean cloth, twist out the cloth, and gently apply it to the affected area for at least 15-20 minutes. Secondly, cool baths may help. Avoid products that may cause sensitive reactions, like bath salts, oils, and perfumes. Third, avoid towels that have a rough texture. Instead use a towel with soft texture to dry yourself. Don’t rub for it might worsen your irritated skin. Fourth, drink pain killers to relieve yourself from headache. In severe cases like dehydration or suffering from heat stroke, intravenous fluids will be given and you will be admitted to the hospital.
Four to seven days after sun exposure, you may experience skin loss or peeling. This indicates that your skin is starting to heal. Therefore, if you want to avoid experiencing premature aging and skin cancer, then remember these self help tips in order for you to have a healthy and unblemished skin.
