April 28, 2009



Sunburn symptoms typically appear within a few hours of exposure such:

• Redness of the skin 
• Swelling
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Irritation 
• Blisters 
• Pain 
• Skin burning 
• Skin loss 
• Dehydration 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• Infection 
• Fever 
• If very severe, shock leading to death may occur  

What to do in case of sun burns?

• Get out of the sun or cover the exposed area.
• Take a cool bath or shower. For added relief, add about 120 milliliters of cornstarch or baking soda to the water.
• Apply an aloe vera lotion several times every day.
• Do not irritate the blisters to avoid infection. Avoid using oils or scented perfumed, etc. In case blisters burst apply an antibacterial ointment on it.
• Over-the-counter pain reliever can be taken if needed such as aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol).

What not to do?

• Do not give children or teenagers aspirin for it may cause Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal disease.
• Do not use petroleum jelly, butter or other home remedies on your sunburn which can prevent healing.
• See the doctor if the burn begins to blister or if there are any immediate complications, such as rash, itching or fever.