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Sunburn
Overview:
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.
Sign and Symptoms:
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Red, swollen, or painful skin
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In severe cases, small or large water blisters
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Occasionally, a fever less than 100.5 degrees F (38 degrees C)
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Tanning or peeling of the skin after the sunburn has gone away
Self-Care Measures:
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Soak in a tub of cool water or put cool water compresses on
painful areas
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Apply non-oil-based creams or lotions or aloe vera gel to sooth
your sunburn
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For pain, use an OTC topical anesthetic and/or OTC oral
analgesic with ibuprofen
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Drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour that you are awake
Red Flags:
Check
in with the nurse if...
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Symptoms don't improve within 48 hours
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Fever of 100.5 degrees F *38 degrees C) or higher that doesn't
come down after taking an OTC analgesic
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More than one episode of vomiting and/or diarrhea
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Mental confusion, dizziness, or fainting
To Maintain Healthy Skin:
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Minimize sun exposure from 10 AM - 4 PM
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Use sunscreen of at least SPF 15. If you're fair-skinned,
use one of SPF 30 or higher
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Reapply sunscreen as directed, but especially after swimming or
sweating heavily
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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
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Wear light colored clothing, a cap or hat, and a light-weight,
long-sleeved shirt
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Avoid sunlamps and tanning booths/beds. try a sunless
tanning product or other non-UV tanning option
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