| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | Sunburn is a painful skin condition, which occurs as a result of over-exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. |
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| Considerations | Infants and children are especially sensitive to the burning effects of the sun. Having fair skin heightens susceptibility to sunburn , but even dark and black skin can burn and should be protected. The sun's rays are strongest during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. standard time. The sun's rays are also stronger at higher altitudes and lower latitudes (closer to the tropics). Reflection off water, sand, or snow can intensify the sun's burning rays. Both first and second degree burns can occur from sun exposure. There is no such thing as a "healthy tan". Unprotected sun exposure will cause premature aging of the skin. Skin cancer usually appears in adulthood, but it is caused by sun exposure and sunburns that began in childhood. Malignant melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. You can help prevent this by protecting your skin and your children's skin from the harmful rays of the sun. |
| Causes | Over-exposure to the sun causes sunburn . The time it takes to sustain a sunburn varies widely depending on the age of the person, skin color, geographical location, altitude, time of day, time of year, and environmental factors. Sun lamps can cause severe sunburn. Some medications (such as the antibiotic doxycycline) can make a person more susceptible to sunburn. |
| Symptoms | Symptoms may not appear for a few hours, and the full effect may not be apparent for up to 24 hours. Skin is red, tender, and warm to touch Blistering may occur Severe reactions (sometimes called "sun poisoning") may include fever , chills, nausea, or rash The sunburned skin may start to peel several days after the sunburn |
| First Aid | Apply cool baths or cool compresses for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day. Baking soda in the water may help relieve the pain (small children may become easily chilled, so keep the water tepid). Apply a soothing lotion to the skin. Your physician may prescribe a steroid cream to treat severe sunburn . An over-the-counter pain medication , such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) may be helpful. (Note: aspirin should not be given to children.) |
| Do Not | DO NOT apply petroleum jelly, ointment, or butter to the sunburn . They make the symptoms worse, and can impede healing. DO NOT wash burned skin with harsh soap. |
| Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if | There are signs of shock , such as faintness , dizziness , rapid pulse , rapid breathing , increased thirst , pale skin , clammy or cool skin. The person has eye pain , and eyes are sensitive to light. There are symptoms, such as nausea , fever , chills or rash. The sunburn is very severe and painful. |
| Prevention | Avoid sun exposure during hours of peak sun ray intensity. Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, paying special attention to face, nose, ears, and shoulders. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to sun exposure to allow penetration, and re-apply after swimming or bathing. Children should wear sun hats. Use sunglasses with UV protection. Use a lip balm with sunscreen. |
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