Sunburn

Sunburn is the damage to the skin by ultraviolet radiation - ultraviolet (UV). In the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), it belongs to class XII, which includes dermatological diseases and the growth of subcutaneous tissue. Block L55-L59 is fully devoted to skin diseases associated with radiation. It is necessary to clarify that ultraviolet radiation has waves of different lengths and is conditionally divided into several types, which differ in the level of effect on the human body.

Not all types of ultraviolet can cause sunburn, damage the skin only long-wave and medium-wave radiation - type A and especially type B. 

1. Ultraviolet radiation - long waves (UVA) is able to activate the rapid production of melanin - skin pigment, accordingly there is a tan that lasts for a short time, since it is a kind of short-term reaction to radiation. Long waves also affect the deeper layers of the dermis, changing the structure of the connective tissue and nearby small blood vessels. In addition, photoaging is developing, the elasticity and the turgor of the skin are lost. There are studies that statistically confirm the harmful effects of active UVA on the entire body: oxidation processes become more intense (oxidative stress), epidermal cancer is provoked. 
2. Ultraviolet radiation of medium waves is called UVB. This type activates the production (synthesis) of new pigment granules in melanocytes, which is manifested in the form of persistent pigmentation, that is, tan and pigment spots. Since UVB not only promotes the synthesis of melanin, but also significantly increases the density of the upper layer of the skin - the epidermis, moderate doses of such radiation are completely safe. Excessive infatuation with radiation of type B can provoke melanoma (skin cancer).

[1], [2], [3]

Symptoms of sunburn

The sunburn is manifested by the following symptoms: 

• Hyperemia (redness) of the skin, local or diffuse (common).
• Swelling.
• Irritation of damaged skin.
• Blisters are small and large.
• Increased body temperature.
• Febrile state, chills.
• Severe itching.
• Dehydration (dehydration) of the body.
• Infection of damaged skin.
• Shock.

Clinically, signs of sunburn can appear in just half an hour, but more often a typical burn pattern develops within a day. Manifestations begin with the redness of the sun-exposed areas of the body, then pain develops, blisters with liquid exudate appear inside. Secondary infection of bursting blisters and miliary papules (a small rash the size of millet grains) may be a consequence of secondary skin damage. Also, these signs are associated with damage to the skin of the calves and ankles, where they basically heal very long. Strong itching occurs several days after the injury, and peeling begins in 4-6 days. The symptoms of a sunburn can develop imperceptibly, accompanied by a heat stroke, then a shock state is possible, since a significant part of the human body, including the head, is exposed to overheating.

Solar burns in children

This is the indisputable fault of the parents. If an adult needs about half an hour to get the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, the baby is five minutes long enough to be at risk of such exposure. Despite the fact that signs of damage to the skin and heat stroke in a child can develop slowly, parents should carefully monitor the child in the sun. Sunburn in children is manifested by the following symptoms: 

• Lethargy, drowsiness, or vice versa - anxiety, whims.
• Redness.
• Increased body temperature.
• Chills.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Pale face.

They are often accompanied by a heat stroke, when the general condition of the child is so deteriorating that immediate medical attention is required. The first thing that adults should do before the doctor's arrival is to provide the baby as soon as possible in a shady, cool place, moisten the skin with water or wrap the baby completely in a wet towel, sheets. It is also necessary to reduce the risk of dehydration, that is, give the child a copious drink. All other medical measures will be appointed by the doctor after the examination. Sun burns in children are most dangerous in the age of 2-3 years, so parents should take care of the maximum safety of babies in terms of protection from harmful UV exposure.

Degrees of sunburn

Sunburn, like all other types - thermal, chemical, in terms of strength and severity of the impact on the body are divided into degrees. They depend on the affected area, its magnitude, the depth of penetration of radiation into the dermal layers, and the duration of its exposure. 

1. I-st degree is characterized by superficial influence and causes only hyperemia of skin without papules and blisters. For all their soreness, they are not threatening, even if they are spread all over the body. If a person underwent intense UVA radiation, but did not stay in the sun for a long time, then redness and some uncomfortable sensations all ends. He, as a rule, does not require specialized medical care and is treated at home. 
2. The degree of sunburn directly depends on the time period of sun exposure, as well as on the structure and structure of the skin. If the skin is sensitive, a person is under intense radiation for more than 2 hours, development of the second degree is possible. This is a serious enough damage, which is characterized by the appearance of blisters, miliary papules, spread throughout the body. Develop serious violations in the work of the entire body - dehydration, pain, fever, nausea. Symptoms of the second degree can appear gradually, one after another, aggravating the condition of the victim. Such damage requires medical care, often in a hospital setting. 
3. III and IV degree are rare, since this severity of damage is more typical for thermal or chemical damage. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine a person who is under the scorching sun for more than 10 hours at will. At the third and fourth degree, the structure of all layers of the dermis is broken, subcutaneous tissue and soft tissues are damaged. In fact - it charring more than 60% of the skin, their infection and at best - scarring affected areas. The worst option is complete dehydration, dysfunction of the heart and kidneys, intoxication and death. The degree of sunburn is fixed in the ICD 10 in the block L55.

[4], [5]

Severe sunburn

This is photodermatosis, which can manifest as urticaria, polymorphic dermatitis and rash, erythema. With severe degree, the symptomatology of the shock state develops - rapid pulse, pale skin, dizziness, nausea and weakness, frequent breathing, fainting. A severe sunburn is a risk for a certain category of people, which include: 

• All who have skin integuments of the I-th phototype, that is, pale, sensitive. This type is also called Celtic - the skin is often covered with freckles, milky white. A strong sunburn can be obtained after 15-20 minutes after being under the scorching rays. 
• II-th phototype - Nordic or light European. The skin of such people is light, also sensitive to ultraviolet radiation and poorly pigmented. The burning sensation appears within 30-50 minutes after exposure to the sun. 
• Children under the age of 5 years, because children's skin is poorly perceived percussion doses of ultraviolet radiation. 
• People aged 55-60 years, because in this age period the skin is vulnerable and sensitive to the sun. 
• Those who have recently experienced ultraviolet damage to the skin. 
• Anyone with connective tissue disease is diagnosed. 
• People suffering from systemic or oncological diseases. 
• Everyone who has a hereditary predisposition to melanoma. 
• People who underwent a course of chemotherapy and radiation. 
• People who have recently undergone or are currently undergoing treatment with antibiotics. 
• Pregnant women can get a strong sunburn if they do not take sunlight in a shady, cool place.

Sunburn of the face

This is the most common symptom of skin damage with aggressive ultraviolet radiation. It's easy to guess the reason, because the face is just the most open area, subject to the inevitable impact of the sun. Fortunately, sunburn of the face is usually limited to the reddening of the epidermis, mainly the nose, cheeks and forehead (the most protruding parts). With intense exposure to the rays in place of burning sensation, swelling is possible. Despite the fact that he does not need medical intervention, he can seriously damage the structure of the skin and lead to its premature withering - photo aging. To protect the face, as however, and the whole body, you can use the means containing notes UV protection and patronage.

Sunburn Eye

In clinical practice, it is called electrophthalmia. This eye disease can cause not only to stay under the rays of the summer sun, but also love to travel over snow-capped mountain peaks, and also the inflammation of the eyes is provoked by professional factors - electric welding and exposure to mercury vapor lamps. A sunburn of the eye causes the action of UVB rays, which breaks the microcirculation in the retina and manifests itself by such symptoms: 

• Increased lacrimation.
• Photophobia.
• Puffiness of eyelids.
• Blepharospasm is the salvage of the eyelids.
• Possible erosive lesions of the cornea and conjunctiva.

It develops quite rapidly - from the moment of exposure to ultraviolet radiation to the manifestation of symptoms, no more than 3-4 hours pass. Treatment of photo-ophthalmia should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor, as independent actions not only will not help, but will also aggravate a serious condition and can lead to serious complications.

Sunburn Lips

It manifests a strong reddening, often blisters on the sensitive skin of the lips, swelling, pain, and scaling. The skin of the lips is vulnerable, because it is very thin and does not have a protective horny layer. All blood vessels, nerve receptors are located extremely close to the surface and are influenced by both temperature (cold, heat) and ultraviolet radiation. In addition, the sunburn of the lips is almost inevitable with prolonged exposure to the sun, since melanin is not synthesized in the lips - a protective pigment. That is why it is recommended to protect the lips with special means containing a UV protector. But the most effective way to protect against it will be prevention, which involves a reasonable, dosed pastime under the sun.

Sunburn skin

It can develop only if it is too tanned. In principle, the human skin is well adapted to thermal influences and ultraviolet radiation. If they are pigmented and not burned, this indicates good UV tolerance, moreover, ultraviolet can favorably act on the whole organism: activate the functions of the nervous and endocrine system, promote the formation of vitamin D. A sunburn of the skin is possible only with an unreasonable approach to the sun and thoughtless the pursuit of a beautiful tan. It is also dangerous long stay in the sun for people whose skin is at risk - phototype I and II. Dark-skinned, swarthy "lucky" can easily tolerate the heat and activity of the sun, as they produce much more protective pigment - melanin. In all others, ultraviolet radiation can disrupt the structure of the dermis, the process of thermoregulation, which provokes a sunburn of the skin, as well as heat stroke.

Sunburn of the feet

This is damage to the feet, less often the calves of the lower extremities. They are most painful, much worse and last longer, since the skin of the legs is not adapted and not accustomed to the intense sun exposure. Indeed, most often open areas of the body are the face and hands, they are better adapted to ultraviolet radiation, getting used to it almost all life. Legs are often covered with clothing, shoes and any tan perceived much more sensitively. Since sunburn of the legs leads to a disruption in the structure of the epidermis, and often also of the deeper layers, the blood flow and lymph drainage slows considerably in the legs. Accordingly, develops and symptoms - there is hyperemia, puffiness, often a feeling of numbness and tingling. In addition to the standard self-help procedures for these injuries, it is necessary to give the legs an elevated position and provide lymph drainage in any convenient way. It can be a water massage with a shower or pouring feet with cold water.

Consequences of sunburn

Really pose a threat to humans, especially in recent decades, when scientists say solar activity has increased markedly. The most dangerous radiation type B (UVB), that is, a wave of medium length. Excessive exposure to such rays can provoke the development of epidermal cancer (melanoma), which has become a real calamity. According to statistics, the number of patients with melanoma increases by 7-10% per year. In addition, the effects of sunburn are manifested in the inconspicuous pathological changes that occur inside the body. The fact is that practically all the sun's rays are able to activate the formation of free radicals, that is, particles that destroy cells not only of skin, but also of many tissues and organs. The harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation lead to such disturbances: 

• Reducing the protective properties of the immune system.
• Oncological diseases.
• Development of pathological pigmentation - nevi, lentigo.
• Photodermatosis.
• Photoaging (solar elastosis).

[6], [7], [8], [9], [10],

Treatment of sunburn

Treatment should be immediate, with the first symptoms of ultraviolet aggression should be taken two simple steps: 

1. Maximally reduce the temperature in the sun damaged areas of the skin.
2. Maximum moisturize affected areas of skin.

If you quickly cool and moisten the burned places, then not only the pain symptom will decrease, but the swelling will go away. Further, the treatment of sunburn depends on the extent of the lesion and how much the overall condition of the patient has improved. If on all grounds the first degree is determined, then, most likely, medical care will not be required. It is enough to limit your stay in the sun for several days, to lubricate your skin with moisturizing antiseptic. If a second degree is diagnosed, the doctor may need help, since the risk of infection of the damaged skin is great, in addition, the general condition of the patient needs medical examination. At home, it is recommended to take such actions: 

• Provide peace, a horizontal position, preferably a cool, darkened room. Contact with the sun is excluded for at least a week, but better until complete recovery.
• Treat skin with specialized solutions, gels or sprays.
• At an elevated temperature, take an antipyretic.
• Provide abundant vitaminized drink (compotes, fruit drinks, mineral water without gas) - up to 2 - 2.5 liters per day.
• Take vitamin E 3 capsules a day to accelerate the regeneration of the epidermis.
• Periodically moisten the affected skin or apply cold compresses.

How to treat sunburn?

This question is set by many who have reached the sun after a long, protracted winter and a cool spring. In fact, how not to soak up the sun, especially since the tan is not visible. That's how the photo-burn develops quite imperceptibly, which can be neutralized in the following ways: 

• A wonderful remedy is a cold compress, which greatly alleviates itching, burning and painful symptoms. Gauze or a towel soaked in cool water, are superimposed on the affected parts of the body. Compresses should be periodically changed as they become warmer.
• Using a proven method - hydrocortisone ointment (1%). Of course, this ointment is suitable only for adults, it is contraindicated for children. Hydrocortisone well anesthetizes the damaged epidermis. Apply the ointment should be a thin layer, and, without washing off, add each time in the layer 3-4 times a day. Top of the cold compress is good.
• At strong painful sensations, the raised or increased temperature it is possible to accept a nonsteroid anti-inflammatory preparation - ibuprofen or diclofenac. 
• Always lubricate your feet, even if they are not damaged by sunlight, in addition, it is better to be treated horizontally, lifting your legs slightly (on a cushion or pillow).
• It's good to take a cool shower from time to time, this will ensure the lymph drainage of the entire body.

How to treat sunburns heavier - second or third degree, can only be solved by a doctor.

What to do with a sunburn?

The algorithm of action is quite simple - cooling, moisturizing and neutralizing the dehydration of the body. To do this, either take a shower at room temperature, or plunge into cool sea water, if there is no way to leave the beach. Then you should find a dark, shady place and wrap the whole body with a damp cloth. Even if only the face is burned, all possible skin covers should be covered with a wet towel. This will ensure an even redistribution of moisture in the subcutaneous tissue and help reduce swelling. If there is no increase in body temperature, chills, dizziness, then, most likely, this is the first degree, which is considered easy. He is treated at home fairly quickly. All that is required is a few days of rest from the sun, abundant drinking and moisturizing the epidermis. You can not treat the skin with alcohol solutions, potassium permanganate or fatty creams. If the symptoms develop quickly, there are extensive blisters, hyperthermia, tachycardia, weakness, medical care is not only desirable, but also necessary.

Help with sunburn

Assistance must be provided as soon as possible. The earlier to begin to act, the less the consequences will have the aggressive impact of the sun. The first thing to do is to leave a place where direct sunlight hits the epidermis. If possible, it is better to move to a cool, darkened room, in the open air you need to choose a shady area. Helping with sunburn directly depends on the condition of the victim, at times it is enough to cool the body, to ensure peace and abundant drinking, but more often it is necessary to start treating the damaged epidermis. Antioxidants - vitamins A, E, as well as green tea and pomegranate juice are indicated. As agents that remove inflammation, accelerate the regeneration of the skin are suitable ointments on a light, absorbent basis, containing moisturizing and antiseptic components. In addition, from home methods well-proven masks from cucumber juice, grated raw potatoes or aloe juice.

Than to smear a sunburn?

As simple improvised means, sour-milk products, such as curdled milk, whey or kefir, will suit. The myth of the benefits of sour cream is greatly exaggerated, in addition, the fat contained in sour cream creates a lipid film, that is, ideal conditions for the development of bacterial infection in bursting blisters. A low-fat, light sour-milk product will provide the skin with a protein nutrient layer, will prevent excessive evaporation of moisture and regenerate the damaged epidermis.

Well, if the house has a large number of fresh cucumbers, the juice from them will quickly eliminate inflammation, moisturize the epidermis and help neutralize the consequences.

Than to smear a sunburn as not chemist, special preparations? These include Dexapanthenol (Bepanten), Levosin - an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ointment, Methyluracil, Solcoseryl gel, Baziron gel.

The remedy for sunburn of an easy degree can be intended for both external use and internal reception.

External means: 

• Panthenol in aerosol form (spray) - well removes the inflammation of the skin, covering it with a specific protective film. 
• Ointment hydrocortisone, 0, 05 or 1%, depending on the age of the victim and the degree of epidermal damage.
• With erosive lesions after bursting blisters, Dermazin or Olazol helps.
• Bepanten in the form of ointments or creams, antimicrobial, analgesic and regenerating drug.
• Cooling gels containing menthol and anesthetics.

Internal preparations: 

• At elevated body temperature - paracetamol and all the means containing it.
• Ibuprofen.
• Tylenol.
• Vitamins E. A and C.
• Regidron for reducing dehydration.

Panthenol from sunburn

Panthenol is most often used in aerosol form, so it is more convenient to apply it to sun-damaged skin. Application, point Panthenol from sunburn is good in case of damage to small areas, for example, the nose. Panthenol is an effective drug that improves the recovery of the epithelium, since it contains an active component - dexpanthenol (vitamin A vitamin A provitamin). Coenzyme retinol (vitamin A) in turn - this is one of the constituent membranes of a healthy cell, so Panthenol restores damaged skin. In addition, Panthenol relieves inflammation, pain and itching. Due to its hydrophilic properties (high penetration into the epidermis), the drug is rapidly absorbed and begins to act. Panthenol should be applied to damaged areas at least three, and preferably five times a day.

Cream for sunburn

The cream should contain moisturizing, antiseptic and preferably anesthetic components, that is, it should be a complex action.

These funds include cream from the cosmeceutical category. The lines of the dermatological direction of the companies Uryazh, Bioderma, Aven proved to be well established. These are quite expensive drugs, but extremely effective for use in treating adults. To more democratic means are Hirudobalzam, which well activates the blood supply of tissues, moisturizes the epidermis and relieves its inflammation. The cream is applied 3-5 times a day, without washing off the previous layer. Cream from sunburn for babies is a well-deserved popular Pantenol or Bepanten. Also effective are creams with antihistamine action - Fenistil or Psihlengzam. In severe, extensive, accompanied by erosions, purulent wounds are shown antibacterial creams and ointments, which are prescribed by the doctor.

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Ointment for sunburn

This is an external remedy that helps to remove inflammation, a pain symptom. It should be remembered that the ointment should have good hydrophilic properties, that is, it is well absorbed, so fatty, heavy means are not suitable for treatment. They create a specific lipid envelope, under which a bacterial infection can develop. To effective external preparations include ointments containing antibacterial substances, including plant origin. It can be ointment from sunburn with aloe, chamomile (Alozolum), with calendula or mint.

Spray from sunburn

Spray is considered the best form of an external remedy for treating dermal damage. It is well dispersed, absorbed and does not tighten the skin. To such sprays first of all is Panthenol in aerosol form. Also effective is the spray from sunburn from the children's series Johnsons baby. Flocette spray based on marigold and chamomile well relieves irritation and itching. Aloe Vera, containing aloe extract, allantoin, propolis and other medicinal components, helps regenerate the epidermis, anesthetize and restore the epidermis. Moisturizing sprays containing thermal waters are also effective as a regular moistening of the burned areas.

Prevention of sunburn

This is the best way to avoid not only the discomfort associated with harmful ultraviolet radiation, but also reduce the risk of malignancy, that is, the provocation of oncological dermatological diseases. The most effective prophylaxis for accurate and imaginative expression is tanning under moonlight. In fact, it's not a joke, today sunburn ceases to be a tribute to fashion, rather it is a serious danger to health.

Prevention is the observation of fairly simple recommendations: 

• Sunbathing should be done gradually, for 15-20 minutes a day, preferably not under direct sun. Maximum exposure to sunlight should not exceed 1.5 hours, even with good tolerability.
• Before you start taking sun baths, on all open areas of the body should apply a protective agent with the maximum degree of protection.
• On the head should be a hat, this rule is mandatory for both adults and children.
• The most favorable time for tanning is before 11 pm and after 4 pm. 
• You can not sunbathe people who have recently taken antibacterial drugs, antibiotics.
• Pregnant women, the elderly and children up to 3-4 years of sunbathing should not be at all, it is best to be on the air in a shady place. 
• In hot weather, you need to protect your body and face from the sun as much as possible - to wear closed light clothing made of loose cotton.

Prevention of sunburn does not imply categorical imprisonment in four walls, a reasonable stay under the sun will not only not hurt, but it will also help. However, you should always evaluate your condition, skin sensitivity and time in the sun, then ultraviolet radiation really will only benefit.