Sun poisoning: Symptoms and treatment

We all need some sun for better immunity and mood. It also helps our skin in making vitamin D, which plays a starring role in the normal functioning of our bones and overall health. But too much sun can be bad for us. We know that we can end up with red and inflamed skin if we have fun in the sun for long. That is sunburn, which can increase the risk of other conditions such as dark spots and skin cancer. If the sunburn gets severe, it can lead to sun poisoning, which is a non-medical term. Sun poisoning or photodermatitis happens due to excessive and unprotected exposure to the sun. Read on to know everything about sun poisoning.

What is sun poisoning?

Sun poisoning or photodermatitis is a severe form of sunburn caused by prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays without adequate protection. Contrary to its name, it does not involve actual poisoning, but represents an extreme reaction to excessive sun exposure explains dermatologist and cosmetologist Dr Avinash Urmil. The term ‘sun poisoning’ highlights the intensity of the body’s response to UV damage, signaling the need for immediate care to prevent further health complications. About 60,000 deaths a year in the world are due to too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation, according to the World Health Organization.

What are the symptoms of sun poisoning?

The signs of sun poisoning are more severe and prolonged compared to regular sunburn. Typical symptoms include:

• Intense redness and swelling of the skin
• Severe pain
• Blister formation.

People may also experience systemic symptoms such as:

These symptoms indicate the body’s broader reaction to extensive UV damage. Headache, dizziness, and dehydration are common as well, reflecting the body’s struggle to cope with the stress of severe sunburn, says the expert.

Unlike milder sunburn, where symptoms like redness and discomfort typically fade within a few days, the symptoms of sun poisoning persist longer and can lead to more significant discomfort. In extreme cases, blisters may form, and peeling of the skin might occur as the body tries to repair the damage.

What is the cause of sun poisoning?

Sun poisoning is primarily caused by prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays. This exposure leads to significant damage to the skin cells, triggering an intense inflammatory response, shares the expert. People with fair skin are particularly susceptible because they have less melanin, which is the pigment that provides some protection against UV rays, says the expert. This doesn’t mean you have to hide from the sun. Just get about 10 to 30 minutes of sun exposure a few times in a week to stay healthy, but don’t forget to wear sunscreen.

What are the differences between sun poisoning and heat rash?

Sun poisoning and heat rash are both skin conditions related to exposure to heat, but have key differences.

1. Sun poisoning

It occurs due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays, resulting in symptoms like blisters, severe pain, swelling, fever, chills, and nausea. It can affect large areas of the body and involves significant skin damage and systemic symptoms.

2. Heat rash

Heat rash occurs when sweat glands are blocked and sweat cannot escape to the surface of the skin. This condition typically presents as small red bumps or clear blisters, and the affected areas can be itchy or irritating. Heat rash usually appears in areas where skin folds or clothes cause friction, such as the neck, groin, armpits, or under breasts. It is more common in hot, humid conditions and is usually localised rather than widespread.

Also, sun poisoning requires measures to soothe and heal extensive skin damage and manage systemic symptoms. On the other hand, heat rash can often be relieved by cooling the skin, reducing friction, and allowing the skin to breathe.

What are the complications of sun poisoning?

Sun poisoning, if not properly treated, can lead to several serious complications.

• Dehydration is a common issue due to the body’s excessive loss of fluids, necessitating increased fluid intake and sometimes medical intervention for rehydration.
• Severe sunburn can cause intense pain and blistering, leading to the risk of infection if the blisters break and the skin barrier is compromised.
• Prolonged or repeated exposure to intense UV radiation without adequate protection significantly increases the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, which is the most serious type, says the expert.
• Severe sunburn can result in long-term skin damage, such as premature ageing, and hyperpigmentation.
• In extreme cases, sun poisoning can lead to fainting or loss of consciousness due to the body’s inability to manage the heat and inflammation effectively.

How is sun poisoning diagnosed?

Sun poisoning is diagnosed through a combination of patient history and physical examination. A doctor will assess your history of sun exposure, looking for indications of prolonged or intense exposure to the sun’s rays. They will examine the affected skin for signs of severe sunburn, such as extensive redness, swelling, blisters, and severe pain. The presence of symptoms like fever, chills, dizziness, nausea, and headache, further supports the diagnosis of sun poisoning.

While a physical examination is usually sufficient, severe cases may require additional tests to rule out complications such as dehydration or infection. Blood tests may be conducted to assess hydration levels and check for signs of systemic stress, says Dr Urmil.

What are the ways to treat sun poisoning?

Treating sun poisoning involves addressing both the skin damage and the systemic symptoms.

• Showering in cool water can help alleviate discomfort and reduce skin temperature.
• Cold water cloth compresses can help reduce pain and swelling, so soak a cloth in cold water and apply it to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day.
• Aloe vera is known for its cooling and moisturising properties, promoting healing. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area 3 to 4 times daily.
• Baking soda solution provides a cooling effect and relieves itchiness. Add baking soda to a bowl of cool water, soak a cloth in the solution, and apply to the skin.
• Apple cider vinegar can balance the skin’s pH and soothe irritation. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water, soak a cloth in the solution, and apply to the affected area.
• Use oatmeal for skin, as oatmeal baths are soothing and moisturising. Add colloidal oatmeal to a cool bath and soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Drinking plenty of water is crucial to prevent dehydration, a common issue with severe sunburn.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain due to sun poisoning, and reduce inflammation.

If you notice symptoms that extend beyond typical sunburn reactions, it is best to check with a doctor. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to manage symptoms of sun poisoning.