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Sun poisoning can refer to various conditions, including blisters and electrolyte imbalances caused by long sun exposure. Polymorphic light eruption (PLE) is another form of sun poisoning that causes a rash and is more common in fair-skinned people. Treatment for PLE is similar to sunburn, and some medications can make people more sensitive to the sun. People with lupus are also at risk and should take precautions. If unsure, see a doctor.
Sun poisoning is an umbrella term that can refer to several conditions. In some cases, long exposure to the sun can lead not only to sunburn, but also to blisters on the skin. Other symptoms such as nausea, headaches, or dizziness may occur, and people may have an electrolyte imbalance.
When these additional symptoms occur with sunburn, they may be labeled sun poisoning, although this is not necessarily medically accurate. They can also indicate the onset of extreme dehydration, and people should respond by moving away from the sun, getting adequate fluids, and looking for signs of heat exhaustion and sunstroke. If severe nausea or pain is present, you should not just rest, but go to a doctor or emergency room immediately for medical treatment.
Sometimes sun poisoning is mentioned in a completely different context, when discussing the condition, polymorphic light eruption (PLE). The main symptom of PLE, which is a reaction to UV light, is a rash that may have blisters, hives, and bumps. It doesn’t necessarily occur from long exposure to the sun, and is a little more common among people who live in the far north and who have fair skin. PLE or this form of sun poisoning can occur anywhere and you don’t have to have sunburn to get it.
Usually, when this form of rash develops, the prescribed methods of treatment are to treat the rash as you normally would for sunburn. Applying cooling creams to the rash, drinking lots of water, and taking beta-carotene supplements can help. If the blisters appear infected, you should seek medical treatment.
Although healthy people can get PLE, this form of sun poisoning can be a direct result of taking certain medications that make people light sensitive. There are a number of medications that can cause photosensitivity, and you should heed warnings on prescription drugs. Typical medications include some oral birth control pills, many forms of antibiotics, and even some homeopathic medicines such as St. John’s Wort. If you notice sun poisoning while taking these medications, notify your doctor, wear strong sunscreen when you go outside, and avoid the brightest parts of the day. Also wear long sleeves and suitable hats if you are prone to PLE.
Some conditions, particularly lupus, can make people more likely to encounter sun poisoning in the form of PLE. People with lupus should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, always wear sunscreen for outings, even when it’s cloudy, and should minimize outings during the sunniest parts of the day or wear protective clothing. If you’re not sure if you’re suffering from PLE or sun poisoning from prolonged sun exposure, see a doctor. People with PLE may find that symptoms recur and get worse each season, if they don’t take proper precautions when outdoors.
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