Vacation Nightmare: Woman’s Face Swells Due to ‘Sun Poisoning’
A 23-year-old woman’s vacation in the Dominican Republic took a frightening turn when she developed a severe case of sun poisoning, causing extreme facial swelling.Ashley Bianki, despite using sunscreen, spent considerable time in the pool, leading to the adverse reaction.
The Ordeal Unfolds
On the second day of her trip, Bianki noticed her forehead and face beginning to swell. Initially dismissing it as a mild sun reaction, her condition rapidly deteriorated.Within days, one of her eyes swelled shut, and her face became so distorted that her own family struggled to recognize her.
Is it Ashley?
Bianki’s mother, during a video call
Bianki attributed the incident to a lack of shade around the swimming pool and prolonged sun exposure.
Diagnosis: Sun Poisoning
Bianki’s condition was diagnosed as sun poisoning, a severe form of sunburn that can manifest as an allergic reaction [2]. Medically,it involves serious skin inflammation,potentially leading to swelling and rashes. Sun poisoning is triggered by excessive sun exposure and can result in more severe symptoms then typical sunburn [1].
The overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, specifically UVA and UVB, causes inflammation as the skin attempts to repair its damaged DNA. This process can lead to:
- Skin redness and inflammation
- Skin swelling and stinging
- Vomiting, nausea, and headaches
- Heat and chills
- In severe cases, skin peeling and blisters
Treatment and Recovery
Bianki purchased anti-inflammatory drugs at the Dominican Republic airport. After returning to the United States, she consulted a doctor and began taking oral steroids, leading to recovery within four days.
Who’s at Risk?
While anyone can experience sun poisoning,individuals with sensitive or very fair skin and those prone to sunburn are at higher risk. Prolonged outdoor activities in areas with high UV radiation, especially without adequate sunscreen, considerably increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Prevention is Key
To prevent sun poisoning, experts recommend:
- Applying sunscreen diligently.
- Wearing protective clothing.
- Avoiding outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense.
- Wearing hats and sunglasses.
- Limiting prolonged sun exposure.
What to Do If You Suspect Sun Poisoning
If you suspect sun poisoning, immediate steps include:
- Shielding the skin from further sun exposure.
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
For severe symptoms, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs.
FAQ: Sun Poisoning
- What is sun poisoning?
- A severe sunburn causing skin inflammation,swelling,and potential systemic symptoms.
- How is it different from sunburn?
- Sun poisoning is more severe,lasts longer,and can include fever and blisters [1].
- What causes sun poisoning?
- Overexposure to UVA and UVB rays, leading to skin damage and inflammation.
- How can I prevent it?
- Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid peak sun hours.
- What are the symptoms?
- Redness, swelling, blisters, nausea, headache, and fever.
- When should I see a doctor?
- If symptoms are severe, such as extensive blistering, fever, or dehydration.
