Sun poisoning, also known as severe sunburn, occurs when the skin is exposed to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun for an extended period. It can cause symptoms such as redness, blistering, pain, swelling, headache, fever, nausea, and dehydration. If you suspect you have sun poisoning, it's essential to take immediate action to treat it. Here's what you can do:
1. **Get Out of the Sun:**
- Move to a shaded or indoor area to avoid further sun exposure.
2. **Cool the Skin:**
- Take a cool bath or shower to soothe the skin and lower body temperature. Avoid using hot water, as it can further irritate the skin.
3. **Apply Cool Compresses:**
- Apply cool, damp compresses to affected areas for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
4. **Hydrate:**
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, especially if you're experiencing symptoms like fever, nausea, or vomiting.
5. **Moisturize:**
- Apply aloe vera gel or a soothing moisturizer to the affected areas to help hydrate the skin and promote healing. Avoid using lotions or creams that contain alcohol, as they can further dry out the skin.
6. **Take Pain Relievers:**
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions on the package.
7. **Avoid Irritants:**
- Avoid further irritating the skin by wearing loose, breathable clothing and avoiding harsh soaps or perfumed products.
8. **Protect Against Infection:**
- Keep the affected areas clean and dry to prevent infection. If blisters develop, leave them intact to protect the underlying skin.
9. **Seek Medical Attention:**
- If you experience severe symptoms such as extreme pain, dizziness, fainting, confusion, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which require urgent medical treatment.
10. **Prevent Future Sunburns:**
- Take steps to prevent future sunburns by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, seeking shade during peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes.
It's essential to take sun poisoning seriously and treat it promptly to prevent complications and promote healing. If symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatment, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.