Debunking Myths Sunburn treatment
With everyone spending more time in the sun this time of year, most of us have probably heard that we should carry at least one ounce of sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher every time we're on the outside. Nurse Rose Melendez, RN, Head of our emergency service, tells what to do - and not do - if you get a sunburn. 
In spite of common sense, I've heard that taking a hot shower can take the sting of a sunburn, is that true?
Nurse Rose: Absolutely not. There are many myths out there about the treatment of sunburn and this is one of them. Take a hot shower on top of a sunburn can actually worsen your burn existing first degree. Instead, you should take a cold shower to soothe your skin and remove any chlorine or salt residue that could cause further irritation.
What about putting milk on your skin? I heard that can help soothe the burn
Nurse Rose :. This is yet another old wives' tale. There is actually no medical evidence to back up this trick. In fact, a cold ice pack works as well
What should we really be doing if we have a sunburn
Nurse Pink:.? Here are some helpful home remedies that will actually help.
- Take a painkiller like aspirin, ibuprofen or Aleve, as soon as possible to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Drinking lots of water. The sun dehydrates your whole body - including your skin
- Take a cold shower
- Use a lotion with aloe vera .. Moisturizers hydrocortisone cream can relieve discomfort .
- Avoid cream with "caine" in the title, such as benzocaine, which could further irritate the skin.
How much should we see a doctor
Nurse Rose: While most sunburn can be treated at home, you should see your doctor if your sunburn is accompanied by blisters covering a large part of your body, high fever or signs of infection such as swelling or red streaks blisters.
Want fast medical care, but not the waiting room in the emergency room? See Centra Care Adventist HealthCare Urgent Care , with three locations in Rockville, Germantown and Laurel. Make an appointment online or simply walk in every day of the week 8:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Rose additional health tips
Listen to other Rose health advice by tuning in WGTS 91.9 FM every Wednesday at 07h40
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