Sunburn is a type of skin burning caused by too much exposure to sunlight. Is an inflammatory reaction to ultraviolet (UV) radiation that damages the skin's outermost layers. Usually appears within a few hours after the exposure. Melanin is a pigment that defends your skin against the sun's rays. It works by darkening your exposed unprotected skin. The production of melanin in someone's body is determined by genetics hence, some people get tanned and others sunburned.
Types of sunburn:
1) First-degree sunburns
2) Second-degree sunburns
3) Second-degree deep partial-thickness burns.
Have a look at the symptoms if it:
Pinkness or redness on the affected area.
Swelling.
Skin that feels hot or warm to the touch.
Small fluid-filled blisters.
Eyes that feel gritty or painful.
Flakiness or red spots.
Fever, headache, nausea, and fatigue if the sunburn is severe. (A severe sunburn is usually called skin poisoning).
Itchy, dry, and peeling skin 4-8 days after the skin burn.
Mild sunburn will continue to show symptoms around 2-3 days, moderate sunburn lasts for approximately 5 days. Severe sunburn can last for more than a week. As UV rays damage your skin, your immune system takes part to protect you against sun exposure, the immune system is typically restored during sleep, hence increased work of the immune system can make you feel sleepy. Any exposed part of your body even your ear lobes, lips, and scalp can burn. Eyes are extremely sensitive to the sun's UV rays also can burn.
Sunburn is caused by ultraviolet radiation UVA, UVB, and UVC. Light-skinned people are usually more prone to get sunburns than dark-skinned people. Any time your skin is not protected by clothes or sunscreen and gets too much sun exposure it can burn or tan. Even if your skin neither burns nor tans, it still means the sun is damaging your skin and you may get wrinkles and skin cancer someday.
When to see a doctor - If sunburn covered a large portion of your body and is accompanied by blisters, severe pain, high fever, dehydration, loss of consciousness, headache, nausea, or chills.
UVA and UVB rays both play a major role in sunburn. UVB causes an increase in chemokines and activates peripheral nociceptors results in the over-activation of pain receptors of the skin. While UVA rays are responsible for directly damaging the DNA.
Below are preventive measures for sunburn:
Avoid the sun during peak hours 10 am to 4 pm.
Use sunscreen, at least 15-30 minutes before going outside.
Wear a hat with a long brim.
Wear full sleeves and slacks while going out.
Use sunglasses that filter UV light.
Look for the shade, use an umbrella.
All you need to do is, cover your body as much as possible. Use high SPF sunscreen if you are staying in an Island region.
Manage your sunburn, by using the following tips:
Use a moisturizer that contains aloe vera to soothe the affected area.
Drink water at least 3-4 liters a day.
Drink coconut water.
Don't scratch or break the blisters.
Avoid going in the sun.
Try anti-itch medications prescribed by your doctor.
|
