Relief From Sun Poisoning

Sun poisoning results from a severe sunburn. The victim becomes dehydrated; the condition can be life-threatening. Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, dizziness, rapid pulse and breathing, dizziness, fatigue and headache. Shock and loss of consciousness may occur. Those most vulnerable have previously had severe sunburns, have very fair skin or are using medications that increase photosensitivity. Some medical conditions can make you more vulnerable. Even some cosmetics can make you more vulnerable. Several home remedies will help to relieve the patient's pain and speed healing.

Treat the Sunburn Internally

• The first step is to take aspirin to reduce the pain and inflammation. Aspirin is an antiflammatory drug, and it works on many sunburn and sun poisoning symptoms. Aspirin is less stressful for the liver and kidneys than ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Take it within 24 hours of getting sunburned for best effect.

  Immediately start pushing fluids. Water is great, and sports drinks and fruit or vegetable juices will help to supply lost electrolytes. Promote healing and reduce inflammation with supplements taken two to three times a day for five days after getting burned. Take 1,000 mg of vitamin C, 400 I.U. of vitamin E, 15 mg of beta carotene, and one to two capsules of omega-3 supplement or one to two tablespoons (or about three capsules per teaspoon) of flax seed oil. In addition, 500 mg each of calcium and magnesium, and homeopathic supplements like Calms, or Calms Forté, will help alleviate pain and itching and calm the jangled nerves of the sunburn patient and help him sleep.

Treat the Sunburn Externally

• Soak for 15 minutes at a time in baths of tepid or cool water. Temperatures should not be icy or extremely cold. Do this as often as desired. The baths will soothe the skin and lower the body temperature. Don't use bath oils or salts, but adding oatmeal, tea, Epsom salts or baking soda will soothe the burn and itch. Follow the baths with applications of aloe vera, buttermilk, tea or apple cider vinegar. You can even make a lotion by combining some of these ingredients.

  Use over-the-counter topical anesthetics for extra help with the pain and itch. Anything with a first ingredient ending with "caine," such as benzocaine and lidocaine, will be a pain and itch reliever.

Watch for Unrelieved Symptoms

• It is normal to experience some dizziness, nausea or fatigue with any severe sunburn. If these continue, consult a medical professional. Also, if there is a temperature of more than 103 degrees F, any sign of shock or any loss of consciousness, go to an emergency room or other medical facility.