|
|
Sunburn First Aid
DefinitionSunburn is the result of over-exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. While the symptoms are usually temporary (such as red skin that is painful to the touch), the skin damage is often permanent and can have serious long-term health effects, including skin cancer.
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
Overview & Considerations
Keep in mind:
- There is no such thing as a "healthy tan". Unprotected sun exposure will cause premature aging of the skin.
- Both first and second degree burns can occur from sun exposure.
- Skin cancer usually appears in adulthood, but it is caused by sun exposure and sunburns that began as early as childhood. You can help prevent skin cancer by protecting your skin and your children's skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
Factors that make sunburn more likely:- Infants and children are especially sensitive to the burning effects of the sun.
- People with fair skin are more likely to get sunburn. But even dark and black skin can burn and should be protected.
- The sun's rays are strongest during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The sun's rays are also stronger at higher altitudes and lower latitudes (closer to the tropics). Reflection off water, sand, or snow can intensify the sun's burning rays.
- Sun lamps can cause severe sunburn.
- Some medications (such as the antibiotic doxycycline) can make you more susceptible to sunburn.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00
Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | • | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00
Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | • | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| • | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00
French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | • | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00
But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|
Jump to another section
• Definition
• Sunburn First Aid: Overview & Considerations
• Sunburn First Aid: Symptoms & Signs
• Sunburn First Aid: Prevention
• Sunburn First Aid: First Aid
• Sunburn First Aid: Do Not
• Call Immediately for Emergency Medical Assistance if
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Other Topics
• Burns
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fever
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Pulse - Bounding
• Rapid Deep Breathing (Hyperventilation)
Review Date : 7/28/2003
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. editorial. Previously reviewed by Todd Severson, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/18/2002).
|
|
