More severe cases (sun poisoning) are complicated by severe skin burning and blistering, massive fluid loss (dehydration), electrolyte imbalance, and possibly infection. With too much exposure, severe untreated sunburn can cause shock (poor circulation to vital organs) and even death.
First aid treatment for sunburn includes over-the-counter pain relievers (for example ibuprofen or naproxen, which are anti-inflammatory drugs), and sunburn gels or creams. If medical treatment is necessary, stronger pain medication, antibiotics, or silver sulfadiazine may be prescribed.
Facts on Sunburn (Sun Poisoning)
Sunburn results from too much sun or sun-equivalent exposure. Almost everyone has been sunburned or will become sunburned at some time. Anyone who visits a beach goes fishing, works in the yard, or simply is out in the sun can get sunburned.
Sunburn is possible at any time of year but is more common in the summer months when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Improper tanning bed use is also a source of sunburn. Although seldom fatal, severe sunburn or sun poisoning can be disabling and cause quite a bit of discomfort.
- A Skin Cancer Foundation survey found that one in three adults reported getting sunburned at least once in the past year.
- One or more blistering sunburns in childhood or adolescence more than double a person’s chances of developing melanoma later in life, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
- A person’s risk for melanoma doubles if he or she has had five or more sunburns at any age.
- Severe untreated sunburn can cause shock (poor circulation to vital organs) and even death.
What Causes Sunburn?
- Mild and uncomplicated cases of sunburn usually result in minor skin redness and pain.
- Initially, the skin turns red about 2 to 6 hours after exposure and feels irritated. The peak effects are noted at 12 to 24 hours.
- More severe cases (sun poisoning) are complicated by severe skin burning and blistering, massive fluid loss (dehydration), electrolyte imbalance, and possibly infection.
- With too much exposure, severe untreated sunburn can cause shock (poor circulation to vital organs) and even death.
