Solar erythema

Solar erythema
Synonyms	Sunburn
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Redness, pain, swelling, blistering
Complications	Skin cancer, premature aging, infection
Onset	Within hours of sun exposure
Duration	Several days to weeks
Types	N/A
Causes	Ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds
Risks	Fair skin, prolonged sun exposure, lack of sunscreen
Diagnosis	N/A
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	Sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours
Treatment	Cool compresses, aloe vera, pain relief medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Solar erythema (also known as sunburn) is a type of erythema that results from an inflammatory reaction in response to exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly the UVB spectrum of sunlight.

Causes

Solar erythema is caused by exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The UV radiation damages the DNA in the skin cells, leading to the release of cytokines that cause the blood vessels to dilate and become more permeable. This results in redness, swelling, and pain, which are the hallmarks of inflammation.

Symptoms

The symptoms of solar erythema include redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area. In severe cases, blisters may form. The symptoms usually appear a few hours after sun exposure and peak after 24 to 36 hours.

Prevention

Prevention of solar erythema involves avoiding excessive sun exposure, especially during the peak hours of UV radiation (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 can also help prevent sunburn.

Treatment

Treatment for solar erythema primarily involves relieving the symptoms. This can be achieved through the use of over-the-counter pain relievers, cool compresses, and aloe vera gel. In severe cases, medical attention may be required.

See also

• Erythema
• Ultraviolet radiation
• Sunscreen
• DNA damage (naturally occurring)