The summer is finally in full swing and many of us are enjoying it to the full. We might be spending time with family and friends having an outdoor barbecue or perhaps we are enjoying some fun in the sun at the beach. In either case, there is something to consider when we leave the home and the sun is at its warmest. Although we could get sunburned at any time of the year, the sun is more intense during the summer months so we need to do what we can to avoid a sunburn when we are outside.
The problem is, the sunburn can sneak up on us and sometimes, we may not do enough to protect ourselves. We put a lot of sunscreen on our body, trying to cover every inch of exposed skin but if you miss a little spot, you might end up with a burn. Overexposure to sunlight and UV radiation can damage the skin and it can have an impact on your health that is best avoided.
You will likely hear about many home remedies to treat sunburn but you may not actually be suffering from a sunburn, it could be something else.
How do you know if you’re suffering from something more severe? Sun poisoning is sometimes described as a severe sunburn but there are other symptoms to consider. Here are a few of those symptoms to keep in mind.
1. Your skin is hot and you are in pain
When you have a regular sunburn, you don’t want anyone to touch it. It becomes inflamed and red and even light pressure can be painful. When you have sun poisoning, on the other hand, the area will be painful even if someone isn’t touching it.
2. You feel like you have a fever
Your body will experience a fever when it is kicked into high gear. Flulike symptoms are not uncommon when you have sun poisoning and it may be the first sign.
3. Dehydration
You may have a variety of health problems when you are dehydrated but some symptoms that are most common include nausea and lightheadedness. If you feel as if you’re constantly fatigued, you may be spending too much time in the sun.
4. Muscle and joint pain
Sun poisoning causes pain but it doesn’t mean that you are poisoned by the sun. You just have a severe sunburn that causes you to be in more pain. You might experience facial swelling but if the pain is difficult to bear, a doctor should be consulted.
5. Skin blistering or rash
If you have skin blistering or a rash, it means that you should follow a home remedy to treat the problem.
How do you treat a sunburn or sun poisoning and avoid getting sick?
1. Stay hydrated
Drink water throughout the day and don’t wait until you are thirsty to hydrate.
2. Protective clothing
Protecting your skin by covering it with clothing is uncomfortable in the hot weather but it will help you to avoid serious problems. If you plan on spending hours in the sun, wear protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. An umbrella isn’t a bad idea.
3. Apply sunscreen properly
Take precautionary measures by applying sunscreen frequently. Don’t miss those danger spots, including the hands and feet.
4. Limit Sun Exposure
You are more likely to burn during the hours between 10 AM and 2 PM. It’s best to stay out of the sun during that time.
Here are a few home remedies that can help you with sun poisoning. If you have any persistent or severe symptoms, seek medical help.
1. Protect your sunburned areas
Don’t allow sunburned areas to get infected or to experience more damage. Cover them when leaving the home.
2. Drink fluids
If you experience flu-like symptoms, your body needs water so the toxins can be flushed out properly. Drink more water than you usually do to speed up recovery.
3. Aloe Vera Gel
Apply sunburn remedies, including aloe vera gel, milk, oatmeal and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pain medication
If you are in pain, take anti-inflammatory medication. Ibuprofen is a popular choice.
5. Cold Compresses
Don’t apply ice directly to the skin but use a cold compress to cool the area.