Overview

Sunburn is acute skin inflammation from UV radiation overexposure. Kuwait's geographic location gives it among the world's highest UV index readings (up to 11-12 in summer), making sun protection a critical daily health issue. Photodermatitis refers to abnormal skin reactions to sunlight, including sun allergy and drug-induced photosensitivity.

Symptoms

• Sunburn: redness, pain, warmth, swelling, blistering (severe); peeling skin 3-7 days later
• Severe sunburn: fever, chills, nausea, headache, dehydration
• Photodermatitis: itchy rash or blisters only on sun-exposed areas
• Polymorphic light eruption: itchy red bumps appearing hours after sun exposure

Causes & Risk Factors

• UVA and UVB radiation damage skin cell DNA
• Kuwait factors: extreme UV index, midday outdoor activity, light reflected from sand and water
• Drug-induced photosensitivity: tetracyclines, NSAIDs, fluoroquinolones, diuretics

Complications

• Repeated sunburn raises risk of all skin cancers (melanoma, BCC, SCC)
• Premature skin ageing: wrinkles, brown spots, loss of elasticity
• Actinic keratosis (pre-cancerous lesions); heat stroke — a medical emergency

Diagnosis

Sunburn diagnosed clinically. Photodermatitis may require phototesting and patch testing. Blood tests for systemic photosensitivity disorders (lupus, porphyria).

Treatment

• Cool compresses or cool shower; aloe vera gel or calamine lotion for mild burns
• Ibuprofen started early reduces pain and inflammation; hydrate well
• Topical steroids for severe reactions
• For photodermatitis: antihistamines, topical corticosteroids, discontinue triggering drug

Prevention

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every morning; reapply every 2 hours outdoors
• Avoid going outside 10am-4pm in Kuwait's summer; wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats
• Never use tanning beds; check medications for photosensitivity risk

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