Sunburn: What You Should Know About this Skin Problem

As we approach the summer months, odds are that many people may find themselves lying out in the sun hoping to get a golden tan. However, prolonged exposure to the harmful sunrays may lead to sunburn and sun damage on your skin. More than one-third of adults and nearly seventy percent of children report that they have gotten sunburned within the past year.

What causes sunburn?

The sun gives off three wavelengths of ultraviolet light: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC does not reach the Earth’s surface, the other two types of ultraviolet light does and they can penetrate your skin. Skin damage and sunburn is caused by both UVA and UVB rays. Sunburn and sun damage visibly affects your skin as well as it can damage your skin under the surface leading to the premature aging of your skin and can contribute to skin cancer.

How soon and the severity of your sunburn depends on your skin type, the intensity of the sun, and how long you are exposed to the sun.

What are the signs of sunburn?

Some signs of sunburn include:

• Bright red skin that hurt
• If severe, you can develop swelling and sunburn blisters
• Your skin will peel and itch as your body tries to rid itself of the sun-damaged cells

When should I see a doctor if my symptoms of sunburn are severe?

Call a doctor if you notice more serious sunburn signs, including:

• Fever of 102 degrees or higher
• Chills
• Severe pain
• Sunburn blisters that cover 20 percent of your body
• Signs of dehydration including dry mouth, thirst, reduced urination, dizziness, and fatigue

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles county, Orange county, San Bernardino county and Riverside county). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including La Mirada, which is conveniently located near Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk,  Cerritos, Buena Park and Santa Fe Springs. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit healthpointe.net.