Sun poisoning can give a person more than a rash. It can trigger serious symptoms like fever, chills, and nausea. If you tend to suffer from sun poisoning, then observing some preventive measures will help.
Sun poisoning is a serious condition than a rash. Some people are more prone to getting sun poisoning than others. Many people tend to go out in the sun to get tanned, however, too much of exposure to sun can give a sunburn. Sunburn along with some serious symptoms similar to heat stroke is the sign of sun poisoning.
Tips on Preventing Sun Poisoning
Given below are some tips to prevent sun poisoning, which include identifying sun poisoning symptoms, differentiating between sun poisoning and similar disorder, diet changes, and other small preventive measures.
Look Out for the Symptoms
The first thing you need to do is learn about the sun poisoning symptoms. This will help you figure out if a person is suffering from sun poisoning or not. Here is a list of the symptoms a person will show if suffering from sun poisoning.
- Rash
- Red colored rash
- Blistering of rash
- Infection on rash
- Itching
- Loss of fluid
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Chills
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache/dizziness
- Nausea
- Rapid breathing
- Rapid pulse
Differentiate Between PLE and Sun Poisoning
Above were the symptoms of sun poisoning. Another thing you need to do, is to be able to distinguish between it from PLE. Symptoms of sun poisoning and PLE are similar, and so both the disorders can be confused. PLE, which is polymorphous light eruption gives a rash on which there can cause blisters, hives, or bumps. It is not necessary that PLE can occur due to prolonged sun exposure. People who are extremely fair can get PLE even due to little sun exposure. So, if you are getting other serious symptoms along with skin rash, then it can be sun poisoning.
Check Your Medication
Certain medications can cause PLE or give you a sun rash easily. If you are on these medications, then check with your doctor to find alternative medication. Certain medications which cause photo sensitivity include:
- Oral birth control pills
- Certain antibiotics
- Certain homeopathic medicines (e.g. St. John’s Wort)
Eat and Drink Properly
Drinking plenty of water can help you prevent as well as cure sunburn or heatstroke. So, drink 2-3 liters of water throughout the day. Also, eating some special foods will give you enough immunity to fight sun poisoning. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene. So, have a big glass of carrot juice everyday. Omega 3 fatty acid foods like fish, flax seeds, and nuts can also help. Keep drinking green tea and eating fresh fruits to get plenty of vitamins and antioxidants.
Prepare Yourself When Going Out
The next thing you need to do is to avoid sun exposure. If you tend to use self-tanning lotion or tanning beds, then strictly avoid their use. Avoid prolonged exposure to sun. Try to find a shaded area if you are outside. Try to stay indoors if it is summer and leave the house in the evenings or mornings. Carry an umbrella with you when going out. When heading out to the beach or going out carry these things with you. You can make a checklist of these things. So, make sure you wear a strong sunscreen, wear full protective clothing, and carry hats, scarves, or an umbrella with you. Here is a list for you to keep in mind.
- Strong sunscreen
- Sun coat
- Umbrella
- Hats/scarves
- Full clothing
- Plenty of water
- Aloe vera gel
- Fruit juices
- Sun glasses
The above mentioned list also contains aloe vera gel because it’s an excellent way to treat sun poisoning rash. So, if you feel a burning sensation or a sunburn, apply loads of aloe gel to it. Also, keeping yourself hydrated using fruit juices, coconut water, or filtered water can prevent dehydration and extreme sun poisoning symptoms.
