Medical Treatment for Sun Poisoning
Photodermatitis is the medical term for both sun burn and sun poisoning. Photodermatitis is defined as the skin's reaction to over exposure to the sun. Sun poisoning symptoms tend to be more severe, making the sufferer more uncomfortable.
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Symptoms
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Sun poisoning and sunburns are typically characterized by the same symptoms with the exception of sun poisoning being more severe. Sunburn symptoms are redness, itching and peeling, and severe sunburns and sun poisoning may be accompanied by blisters that lead to infection, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, high fever, fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance.
Treatments
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Sun poisoning is treated the same as any allergic dermatitis. Wet compresses may be used to relieve the burn followed by a lotion to sooth the symptoms. An anti-inflammatory may be prescribed and an antihistamine taken for itching, as well as, IV fluid therapy.
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Home Treatment
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Apply wet compresses and aloe vera gel to the skin. Drink plenty of fluids and take aspirin to reduce the swelling. A beta-carotene supplement may be used to reduce inflammation as well.
Risk Factors
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People with fair skin and red or blonde hair are more at risk with sun and overexposure to the sun. Medications such as oral contraceptive and anti-depressants, among others, may also increase the risk of sun poisoning.
Prevention
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Wear a hat and/or sit in the shade when in the sun. Use UV protective sunscreen SPF 30 or higher and eat foods such as carrots, fish, and green tea to help reduce the skin's reaction to the sun.
Severe Symptoms
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In severe cases when the fever reaches over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, the patient is worming or in extreme pain, the patient will need to go to the emergency room, where IV fluids may be administered and an oral steroid given to reduce inflammation.
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