Sun poisoning, medically known as photodermatitis, is an allergic reaction brought on by exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. It is most common during the summer months when ultraviolet light is at its strongest, but can occur at any time during the year.
Sun poisoning is usually associated with sunburn and many people use the terms interchangeably. Sun poisoning is actually a more serious condition that may require emergency medical treatment.
Risk Factors for Sun Poisoning
Sun poisoning is caused by overexposure to sunlight or tanning lamps. Staying out in the sun after you have begun to sunburn puts you at great risk for sun poisoning. Individuals who are sun sensitive, fair-skinned or have experienced sun poisoning in the past may begin to show symptoms of sun poisoning after only a few minutes of sunlight exposure.
Medications that create photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light) are another risk factor in sun poisoning. These medications include various antibiotics (especially tetracycline), birth control pills, sulfa drugs, tranquilizers, and drugs used in the treatment of high blood pressure and diabetes. St. John's Wort, used as a natural remedy for depression, can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about photosensitivity and sun precautions when you are prescribed a new medication or considering an herbal treatment.
Some cosmetic products, such as lotions, cortisone creams, lip balms, fragrances, shampoos, bar soaps, and antibacterial soaps, increase sun sensitivity and put you at risk for developing sun poisoning. Oddly enough, toiletries containing the common sunscreen ingredient PABA are among these products.
Health problems such as Lupus Erythematosus, Porphyria, Pellagra, diabetes, and thyroid disease are known for increasing sensitivity to sunlight. Even a simple infection, which triggers your immune system, can increase your risk of sun poisoning.
Sun poisoning is usually associated with sunburn and many people use the terms interchangeably. Sun poisoning is actually a more serious condition that may require emergency medical treatment.
Risk Factors for Sun Poisoning
Sun poisoning is caused by overexposure to sunlight or tanning lamps. Staying out in the sun after you have begun to sunburn puts you at great risk for sun poisoning. Individuals who are sun sensitive, fair-skinned or have experienced sun poisoning in the past may begin to show symptoms of sun poisoning after only a few minutes of sunlight exposure.
Medications that create photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to ultraviolet light) are another risk factor in sun poisoning. These medications include various antibiotics (especially tetracycline), birth control pills, sulfa drugs, tranquilizers, and drugs used in the treatment of high blood pressure and diabetes. St. John's Wort, used as a natural remedy for depression, can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about photosensitivity and sun precautions when you are prescribed a new medication or considering an herbal treatment.
Some cosmetic products, such as lotions, cortisone creams, lip balms, fragrances, shampoos, bar soaps, and antibacterial soaps, increase sun sensitivity and put you at risk for developing sun poisoning. Oddly enough, toiletries containing the common sunscreen ingredient PABA are among these products.
Health problems such as Lupus Erythematosus, Porphyria, Pellagra, diabetes, and thyroid disease are known for increasing sensitivity to sunlight. Even a simple infection, which triggers your immune system, can increase your risk of sun poisoning.
- Sun poisoning is a severe reaction to sunlight, frequently associated with sunburn.
- Certain medications, health problems and common personal products increase the risk of sun poisoning
- Symptoms of sun poisoning may be severe enough to require immediate medical assistance.
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