Sun Poisoning: Symptoms and Treatment

We all need some sunshine for better immunity and mood. It also helps our skin produce vitamin D, which plays a major role in the normal functioning of our bones and overall health. But too much sun can be harmful to us. We know that we can end up with red and inflamed skin if we spend too much time in the sun. This is called sunburn, which can increase the risk of other conditions such as dark spots and skin cancer. If sunburn becomes severe, it can lead to sunstroke, which is a non-medical term. Sunstroke or photodermatitis occurs due to excessive and unprotected exposure to the sun. Read on to learn all about sunstroke.

What is sunstroke?

Sun poisoning, or photodermatitis, is a severe form of sunburn caused by prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays without proper protection. Contrary to the name, it does not involve actual poisoning, but rather 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 treatment to prevent further health complications. About 60,000 deaths a year worldwide are due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, according to the World Health Organization.

What are the symptoms of sunstroke?

Signs of sunstroke are more severe and prolonged than regular sunburn. Typical symptoms include:

• Intense redness and swelling of the skin
• Intense pain
• Formation of blisters.

People may also experience systemic symptoms such as:

These symptoms indicate a broader response from the body to extensive UV damage. Headaches, dizziness, and dehydration are also common, reflecting the body’s struggle to cope with the stress of a severe sunburn, the expert says.

Unlike milder sunburns, where symptoms such as redness and discomfort usually fade within a few days, sunstroke symptoms persist longer and can lead to more significant discomfort. In extreme cases, blisters may form and the skin may peel as the body tries to repair the damage.

What causes sunstroke?

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

What are the differences between heatstroke and heat rash?

Heatstroke and heat rash are both skin conditions related to heat exposure, but they have substantial differences.

1. Sun poisoning

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

2. Heat rash

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

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

What are the complications of sunstroke?

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

• Dehydration is a common problem due to excessive fluid loss from the body, requiring increased fluid intake and sometimes medical intervention for rehydration.
• Severe sunburns can cause severe pain and blisters, leading to a 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 cancer, including melanoma, which is the most serious type, the expert says.
• Severe sunburn can cause long-term skin damage, such as premature aging and hyperpigmentation.
• In extreme cases, heatstroke can lead to fainting or loss of consciousness, as the body is unable to effectively handle the heat and inflammation.

How is heatstroke diagnosed?

Sunstroke is diagnosed through a combination of a patient’s history and physical examination. A doctor will evaluate your history of sun exposure, looking for signs 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 such as fever, chills, dizziness, nausea, and headache further supports the diagnosis of sunstroke.

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

What are the ways to treat sunstroke?

To treat sunstroke, it is necessary to address both the skin damage and the systemic symptoms.

• Showering with cold water can help relieve discomfort and lower the temperature of the skin.
• Cold water cloth compresses can help relieve pain and swelling: 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 moisturizing properties, which promote healing. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area 3 or 4 times a day.
• Baking soda solution provides a cooling effect and relieves itching. Add baking soda to a bowl of cold water, dip a cloth in the solution, and apply it to the skin.
• Apple cider vinegar can balance the skin’s pH and soothe irritation. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water, soak a washcloth in the solution, and apply to the affected area.
• Use oatmeal for your skin, as oatmeal baths are soothing and moisturizing. Add colloidal oatmeal to a cold bath and soak for 15-20 minutes.
• Drinking plenty of water is essential to prevent dehydration, a common problem with severe sunburn.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage the pain caused by sunstroke and reduce inflammation.

If you notice symptoms that go beyond typical sunburn reactions, it is best to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to managing the symptoms of sunburn.