With the arrival of hot days, we spend more time in the sun - by the water, on the terrace, or during holidays. Many people underestimate skin protection, and the first sunburn can appear after an ordinary afternoon in direct sunlight.
“Dermatitis solaris” is the medical term for sunburn. It is acute skin damage that occurs when the skin is excessively exposed to UV radiation from the sun.
It appears as redness, swelling, and skin pain. Repeated sunburn can lead to long-term skin damage and also increase the risk of skin cancer. That is why it is important to protect the skin even from mild sunburn.
Sunburn does not only happen during a seaside holiday. It often occurs during ordinary time outdoors - while playing sports, working in the garden, or spending an afternoon by the water.
Symptoms of sunburn
- redness of the skin,
- a burning sensation and skin pain,
- swelling of the affected area,
- increased sensitivity to touch,
- dry or tight skin,
- blistering in more severe cases,
- overall fatigue and irritability.
Most commonly affected areas
- face - nose, cheeks, and forehead,
- shoulders and upper back,
- neckline and chest area,
- ears and nape of the neck,
- instep of the feet and soles,
- scalp.
What helps with sunburn
- moving into shade or a cool place,
- cooling the skin (cold compresses or a lukewarm shower),
- adequate hydration,
- soothing after-sun products,
- loose and breathable clothing,
- avoiding further sun exposure,
- consulting a doctor for stronger pain.
Prevention
Prevention of “dermatitis solaris” is mainly based on protecting the skin from UV radiation. The foundation is using sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor), which needs to be reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
It is also important to limit time in direct sunlight between 11:00 and 15:00 and to protect the skin with suitable clothing, a head covering, and sunglasses. Seeking shade, gradually allowing the skin to get used to the sun, and maintaining adequate hydration also help.
UV radiation is more intense near water and sand, and at higher altitudes. SPF alone is not enough - the best protection comes from combining several protective measures.
Sunstroke or heatstroke. What is the difference?
Sunstroke is caused by direct sunlight affecting the head and neck. Heatstroke is an overall overheating of the body, which can occur even without direct sun exposure, for example in a hot and poorly ventilated environment.
Both conditions can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, or fatigue and require cooling the body and maintaining adequate hydration.
Sunburn and the nervous system
Heat and dehydration can often trigger migraines and other types of pain, especially in more sensitive patients. Long stays in the sun without sufficient fluid intake are particularly risky.
Excessive sun exposure affects not only the skin, but also the overall condition of the body, including the nervous system. Overheating can appear as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or problems with concentration.
In more serious cases, heatstroke can occur as a result of the body overheating. Typical symptoms include severe headache, nausea, weakness, confusion, rapid heart rate, and in some cases impaired consciousness. If heatstroke is suspected, it is important to cool the body as soon as possible and seek medical help if the condition worsens.
Neurology clinic at Polyclinic Púpava
When should you seek medical help?
- if blisters appear over a larger area of the body,
- with severe headaches or dizziness,
- with nausea and vomiting,
- with fever or confusion,
- if the condition does not improve even after cooling the body.
If any of these symptoms or other neurological difficulties appear during hot weather, do not underestimate them. If they persist, contact our neurology clinic.
