Health. Sun intoxication or poisoning: what is it?

Although "sun poisoning" isn't a medical term, it's a real phenomenon. According to Dr. Matthew Goldman, a general practitioner at the Cleveland Clinic in the United States, the condition often resembles flu-like symptoms or an allergic reaction.

“ Sun poisoning can leave you shivering in bed with headaches, fever, and chills—all accompanied by redness, pain, and increased tenderness in the sunburned areas ,” he explains.

Contrary to what the name suggests, you are not actually being "poisoned" by UV rays. Rather, what you experience is an intense reaction to severe skin damage.

More severe than sunburn. Symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or confusion are usually related to significant dehydration.

Who is most at risk?

The possible causes of sun poisoning are numerous and, in some cases, undetermined. Sun poisoning is more common in certain people, including:

• light-skinned individuals;
• babies and children, who have more sensitive skin;
• people with a family history of skin cancer ...

Certain pre-existing conditions (such as lupus), certain antibiotics, or topical medications can also predispose you to sun poisoning.

How is sun poisoning treated?

“ Sun poisoning affects each person differently, so doctors usually tailor treatment to the patient's specific symptoms ,” says Dr. Goldman. Management may include:

• taking warm baths or applying cold compresses;
• steroid creams;
• pain relievers;
• intravenous solutions in cases of severe dehydration…

Finally, to prevent sun poisoning, take the same precautions as to avoid sunburn (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, avoid exposure during the hottest hours, etc.).

Please note : Seek medical advice if, after sunbathing, you experience bright red, oozing skin, severe pain, fever, chills, headache, nausea, or vomiting.

Source: https://health.clevelandclinic.org