Sunburn

Damage to the skin caused by too much exposure to the sun. The skin damage is actually a burn to the skin caused by the ultraviolet light in sunshine. It is very common and occurs whenever activities are done outside without appropriate protection either with clothing and or sun blocking agents such as suntan lotions. For best prevention one should use a lotion with the highest SPF (sun protection factor). A sunburn can also occur form improper use of tanning beds. A severe sunburn can become sun poisoning which is potentially life threatening reaction to the damage.

Symptoms:
Skin redness, skin peeling, itching, painful skin, blisters. The symptoms begin 6-48 hours after exposure. Repeated sunburns result in permanent damage and premature aging of the skin. A sunburn can become sun poisoning which is very serious and consists of fever, vomiting, fainting, near-fainting, and confusion.

Treatment:
The best treatment is prevention by: limiting direct exposure to the sun, wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs, wide brim hats that shield the neck and face, and applying skin blocking agents. Select a sun blocking agent with the highest SPF (sun protection factor) as possible, and a water resistant variety if activities around water will be performed. Once a sunburn occurs avoid any further exposure to the sun. Cool showers or baths will help with the discomfort. If there are no blisters then moisturizing creams can be applied. Ibuprofen (Motrin Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used to alleviate the pain. Medical treatment should be obtained if there is fever, fainting, vomiting, severe pain, or confusion.
Usually no other tests are needed.