Sunburn
Sunburns are caused by overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, or sunlamps. They can be mild or severe enough to cause blisters, peeling, and other more general symptoms - some of which may require that you see a healthcare provider. Overexposure to the sun may be merely painful in the short-run, but over the long-run, it can cause skin cancer and premature aging. In fact, a tan is a visible sign that skin damage has occurred .
Signs and Symptoms
- Red, swollen, or painful skin
- In severe cases, small or large water blisters
- Occasionally, a fever less than 100.5 degrees F (38 degrees C)
- Tanning or peeling of the skin after the sunburn has gone away
Self-Care Measures
- Soak in a tub of cool water or put cool water compresses on painful areas.
- Apply non-oil-based creams or lotions or aloe vera gel to sooth your sunburn.
- For pain, use an OTC topical anesthetic and/or an OTC oral analgesic with ibuprofen.
- Drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour that you are awake.
CALL THE UHS 24-HOUR NURSE ADVICE LINE 475-NURS (475-6877) IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OCCURS:
- Symptoms don't improve within 48 hours
- Fever of 100.5 degrees F (38 degrees C) or higher that doesn't come down after taking an OTC analgesic.
- More than one episode of vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Mental confusion, dizziness, or fainting
Go Under Cover
To stay healthy and maintain your youthful skin:
- Minimize sun exposure from 10am - 4pm.
- Use sunscreen of at least SPF 15. If you're fair-skinned, use one of SPF 30 or higher.
- Reapply sunscreen as directed, but especially after swimming or sweating heavily.
- Use a physical barrier agent like zinc oxide cream or ointment on your nose, ears, and the backs of your legs and neck if you'll be in intense sunlight for long periods.
- Wear light colored clothing, a cap or hat, and a light-weight, long-sleeved shirt.
- Avoid sunlamps and tanning booths/beds. Try a sunless tanning product or other non-UV tanning options.
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