Treatment of Sun Poisoning
The treatment for sun poisoning should focus on immediate cooling of the affected skin, hydration, pain management, and protection from further sun exposure, with severe cases requiring medical attention for IV fluids, anti-inflammatory medications, and specialized wound care.
Initial Management
Immediate Cooling
- Remove the person from sun exposure immediately and move to a cool, shaded area 1
- Apply cool compresses to the affected areas for 10-15 minutes several times a day
- Take a cool bath or shower (not cold) to lower skin temperature
Hydration
- Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration
- Drink water, sports drinks with electrolytes, or other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages
- For severe cases with signs of dehydration (dizziness, decreased urination), medical evaluation for possible IV fluids may be necessary
Pain Management
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation
- Note: Topical corticosteroids have not shown clinically useful decrease in acute sunburn reaction when applied 6 or 23 hours after UV exposure 2
Secondary Measures
Skin Care
- Apply moisturizing lotions or aloe vera gel to soothe skin
- Avoid petroleum-based products which can trap heat
- Do not break blisters if present; this increases infection risk
- For open or weeping areas, apply clean, sterile dressings
Medical Attention Indicators
Seek immediate medical care if:
- Severe blistering covers >20% of body surface
- Signs of dehydration (dizziness, decreased urination, dry mouth)
- Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
- Extreme pain
- Confusion, nausea, or vomiting
- Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, red streaks)
Prevention of Recurrence
Sun Protection
- Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) 1, 3
- Wear protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses 1
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection) with SPF >15 1
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after swimming or excessive sweating
Medication Considerations
- Be aware that certain medications can increase photosensitivity, including:
- Tetracyclines
- Thiazide diuretics
- Retinoids
- Some antibiotics
- If taking photosensitizing medications, take extra precautions against sun exposure 1
Special Considerations
For Children
- Children are particularly vulnerable to sun damage and require vigilant protection 1
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends incorporating sun safety advice into health maintenance visits 1
For High-Risk Individuals
- Those with fair skin (Fitzpatrick types I-II), multiple freckles/moles, or family history of skin cancer should be especially cautious 1
- Individuals with previous severe sunburns should be particularly vigilant about sun protection 1
Long-Term Monitoring
- Monitor healing skin for signs of infection or abnormal healing
- Be aware that severe sunburns increase lifetime risk of skin cancers 1
- Annual skin examinations are recommended for those with history of significant sun damage 1
Remember that prevention is the most effective strategy against sun poisoning, as UV radiation is classified as a human carcinogen with both short-term and long-term health effects 4.