SUN POISONING |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Reaction to overexposure to the sun. This is likely to be a problem in any hot-season sport such as swimming, surfing, sailing, tennis or water skiing.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Red skin rash, sometimes with small blisters, in areas exposed to sunlight.
Fever.
Fatigue or dizziness.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORSExposure to sun during hot seasons when ultraviolet light is strongest. It is triggered by exposure to the sun, usually in conjunction with sunburn. Risks increase with any of the following:
Use of medications that cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light). The most common drugs include tetracycline antibiotics, thiazide diuretics, sulfa drugs and oral contraceptives. Some cosmetics, including lipstick, perfume and soaps, can also cause a photosensitive reaction.
Underlying infection.
Previous episodes of sun poisoning.
Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes mellitus or thyroid disease.
Use of immunosuppressive drugs.
HOW TO PREVENTStay out of the sun when possible if you have a history of sun poisoning. Change vigorous workouts to a cooler part of the day.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
SURGERYNot necessary nor useful for this disorder.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSSymptoms can be controlled with treatment if you stay out of the sun. Allow up to 1 week for recovery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Recurrence of the rash and other symptoms when exposed to the sun--even for short periods -- especially in spring and summer.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTNone usually needed after diagnosis and prescription of medications.
HOME TREATMENT
Stay out of the sun during the hours of strongest ultraviolet light (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
If you must go out in the sun for your athletic workouts, wear protective clothing and the most protective sunscreen preparation available. Beware of heat exhaustion and dehydration.
MEDICATIONYou may take aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve mild pain or itching. Your doctor may prescribe:
Beta-carotene to reduce discomfort.
Chloroquine prior to sun exposure to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.
Corticosteroids for severe cases.
ACTIVITYNo restrictions, except to avoid prolonged sun exposure.
DIETNo special diet. Drink extra fluids to prevent dehydration.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of sun poisoning.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
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