Sun poisoning is a step above a sunburn. It’s caused by intense and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays.
Symptoms of sun poisoning include:
- Hives
- Red rash
- Intense sunburn
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Blistered skin
- Vomiting
- A headache
- Dizziness
These symptoms can range from acute to severe. If you suspect that you or a loved one has sun poisoning, there are ways to treat the condition and the symptoms that come with it.
Keep on reading to learn more.
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel has long been a sunburn remedy because of its anti-inflammatory properties that can help cool and soothe irritated and burned skin.
You can either buy aloe vera gel or get fresh aloe vera and scrape the gel from the middle of the plant. Apply this gel to the affected areas to soothe the rash, hives, and burns from sun poisoning.
Aloe has also been shown to help with wound healing, which can help any blisters or burns caused by sun poisoning.
2. Hydration
Dehydration and loss of electrolytes are some of the more serious symptoms of sun poisoning. This can lead to headaches, fatigue, vomiting, dizziness, and more.
Drinking water to replenish any lost liquids will help alleviate these symptoms. You can also drink sports drinks supplemented with electrolytes to quickly relieve symptoms of sun poisoning.
3. Epsom or Oatmeal Bath
Epsom salts contain strong anti-inflammatories that can help soothe burns, swelling, and hives caused by sun poisoning. Dissolve a cup of Epsom salt in a bath and soak in the water for pain and irritation relief.
You might remember oatmeal baths from the childhood days of chicken pox and hives. Oatmeal soaked in bath water can relieve itchiness and irritations while also providing another anti-inflammatory to your burned skin or rash.
4. Vitamins
Certain vitamins can help your body recover from sun poisoning.
Eating foods rich in vitamin E (or taking a supplement) will help your skin heal. Try eating greens, avocado, nuts, and seeds to increase your vitamin E intake. Vitamin E topicals can also be placed directly on a severe sunburn to help with healing.
Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties can help your skin heal from UV damage and oxidation. Try eating extra citrus or taking a supplement.
5. See a Doctor
If you are experiencing intense symptoms or are experiencing symptoms over a prolonged period of time, then it’s time to consult a doctor. This could indicate a more chronic condition that might require specialized therapy or treatment.
A doctor will be able to correctly evaluate the severity of your condition and recommend treatment options. They could suggest these at home treatments, prescribe medication, or suggest things like light therapy.
Treating Sun Poisoning: Bottom Line
Sun poisoning is a serious condition that should be treated immediately. Hopefully, some of these at home treatments can provide you with some relief while you wait to be evaluated by a doctor.
If you need to be seen by a medical professional immediately, contact us. We can help you get help quickly and efficiently so you can get back to being healthy.
