What Your Skin Can Tell You About Your Health

 Is It Advisable to Use Ibuprofen for Severe Sunburn Relief? Here's the Insight

A sunburn happens when your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. During summertime, it's common to spend lots of time outside, and many people believe that sunburns are just about having red skin that eventually peels. However, sunburns can be much more serious, depending on the extent of the UV damage to your skin.

Typically, a sunburn can be either first degree or second degree, with rarer instances of third-degree burns.

A first-degree sunburn affects the outer layer of the skin, causing symptoms like redness, tightening, warmth, swelling, or blistering. On the other hand, a second-degree sunburn may result in deep red marks, swelling, extensive blistering, white discoloration in the affected area, and pain.

Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with a severe sunburn. Additionally, some sunburns come with symptoms like fevers and headaches, which ibuprofen can also alleviate.

However, while ibuprofen may be a go-to remedy for some, it's crucial to understand its side effects and know what other steps should be taken to treat a sunburn effectively.

Adverse effects of using ibuprofen

• The risk of using over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen for sunburn lies in their easy availability, which can make people overlook their potential side effects. Experts emphasize that NSAIDs can cause adverse health effects, especially when misused or overused. 

• While there's no specific data on using ibuprofen for sunburn treatment, taking ibuprofen daily can harm your gut health. It has been linked to gas, bloating, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, leaky gut, gastrointestinal bleeding, and ulcers. For those with existing gastrointestinal issues or high blood pressure, even limited ibuprofen use can be problematic, according to experts. 

• For others, "It's not without risk, but you can feel pretty safe taking it for about three days. Take no more than 400 to 600 milligrams, three times a day, with food. Otherwise, it can ruin your stomach," advised internist Dr. Janet Morgan (via Cleveland Clinic).

• Cloudy urine, itching skin, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, unusual bleeding or bruising, swelling in the face, hands, fingers, legs, feet, or ankles, and weight gain are other common side effects of ibuprofen use. Drugs.com provides a more comprehensive list of its uncommon and rare side effects. 

• Those over 50 should avoid the mistake of mixing ibuprofen with other medications they might be taking, whether for sunburn or other conditions. Some drugs that react negatively with ibuprofen include beta-blockers, warfarin, and diuretics. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using the NSAID.

Treating a Bad Sunburn Without Using Ibuprofen

• If you're worried about using ibuprofen or have a condition that could be adversely affected by this NSAID, you can also alleviate sunburn-related pain and fever with acetaminophen or paracetamol. However, it's crucial to remember that these over-the-counter drugs have their own side effects.

• That said, managing a severe sunburn involves more than just taking a pain reliever. Firstly, you should evaluate the extent of the burn to determine if medical attention is necessary. While first-degree sunburns can often be managed at home with over-the-counter treatments, second or third-degree burns may require a doctor's visit. First-degree burns should heal within a few days, whereas second-degree burns might take several weeks to recover. Staying hydrated, taking cool showers, and applying a cool compress and moisturizer are effective home remedies for sunburn.

• If you experience severe blistering, fever and chills, dizziness, confusion, exhaustion, muscle cramps, seizures, or slurred speech, it's time to seek hospital care. "Some of these symptoms can indicate severe dehydration, overheating, heatstroke, and/or sunstroke," stated Yale Medicine dermatologist Dr. Amanda Zubek. Additionally, be aware of pre-sun exposure mistakes that can exacerbate your sunburn. Topping the list is neglecting to apply SPF protection when you're outdoors.

Your Skin Can Uncover Some Unexpected Insights About Your Health

Your skin is the largest of the human body’s numerous organs, covering the entire exterior. At 2 millimeters thick and weighing approximately 6 pounds, human skin serves as a protective barrier against various external factors such as light, heat, disease, and injury. Additionally, the skin functions as a thermostat, collecting environmental data to regulate body temperature. It also facilitates the body's hydration and nutrient intake.

Acne on the chin and jawline might indicate PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a relatively common condition among women of reproductive age. This disorder is caused by a hormonal imbalance that results in higher levels of androgens compared to estrogen. This imbalance can result in the formation of multiple benign cysts on the ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles, and infertility. Elevated androgen levels in PCOS can also lead to noticeable changes in a woman's appearance, according to dermatologist Tzippora Shainhouse, as reported by Health Digest. These alterations may include weight gain, thinning hair, the growth of male-pattern facial hair, and acne on the chin and jawline.

Approximately 10 percent of women of childbearing age are affected by PCOS, though many remain unaware until they encounter difficulties with conception. If you experience irregular periods alongside chin and jawline acne or facial hair growth, it may be beneficial to consult your doctor. PCOS can be managed through hormonal treatments and dietary adjustments, allowing many women to alleviate the symptoms.

Dry skin and thinning eyebrows might indicate a thyroid issue.

While a diagnosis of a thyroid condition cannot be made solely by observing the skin, certain changes may indicate that it’s worthwhile to have your thyroid levels evaluated by a doctor. One such change is dry skin, which, according to dermatologist Joshua Ziechner, might suggest low thyroid function. "We know that low thyroid function affects skin cell function, including its ability to protect itself from the environment and maintain hydration," Dr. Zeichner shared with Health Digest.  

Another possible indicator is eyebrow loss or thinning that is not due to overplucking, as explained by dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse to Health Digest. Similar to dry skin, eyebrow loss or thinning, clinically known as madarosis, can signal an under-active thyroid. When this is the case, madarosis may also be accompanied by cold intolerance, loss or thinning of scalp hair, weight gain, fatigue, and depression. "Thyroid hormones boost our metabolism and energy, so low levels can impact both how we feel and look," Dr. Shainhouse noted. However, the condition is treatable, often with prescription thyroid hormone replacement.

Yellow bumps on the eyelids might be a sign of elevated cholesterol levels

Your skin can surprisingly indicate your cholesterol level. Thick, yellow/orange bumps called xanthomas can signal excessive cholesterol in your blood, dermatologist Rhonda Klein told Health Digest. When these bumps appear on the eyelids, they are known as xanthelasmas. According to Dr. Klein, these bumps are actually cholesterol deposits under the skin.

Xanthomas can range from very small to as large as three inches. Fortunately, they "may go away on their own" once the underlying issue is treated, according to Beth Israel Lahey Health. While cholesterol is often the culprit, other health conditions that may cause these bumps can be just as, if not more, concerning than high cholesterol. These include low thyroid function (hypothyroidism), liver cirrhosis, diabetes, and certain cancers. If you notice these bumps, it's important to schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause.

Freckles and sunspots may indicate sun damage

• Freckles can be charming, yet they can also signify skin damage from sun exposure. "Freckles and dark spots are indicators of your lifelong sun damage," dermatologist Ricardo Castrellon stated in an interview with Health Digest.
• Most of the sun damage visible on our skin happened during our childhood and teen years, setting the stage for future issues. Ongoing sun exposure further increases the lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. There are several types of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious form as it can spread to other organs. While not all skin cancers are life-threatening, some can cause disfigurement.
• Early detection is crucial, as emphasized by Dr. Castrellon, who advises regular self-examinations for skin changes. Although changes do not always mean skin cancer, a dermatologist may remove altered skin to both biopsy it and prevent potential progression to cancer.

Conclusion:

 Is It Advisable to Use Ibuprofen for Severe Sunburn Relief? Here's the Insight

In conclusion, while ibuprofen can provide some relief from the inflammation and pain associated with severe sunburn, it should be used with caution. This over-the-counter medication can be effective in reducing swelling and discomfort, but it is not a cure for sunburn. It is crucial to follow the recommended dosage and to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Additionally, ibuprofen should be part of a broader sunburn treatment plan that includes hydration, cooling the affected area, and applying aloe vera or other soothing lotions. Preventative measures, such as using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing, are always the best strategies to avoid sunburn in the first place.

Ultimately, while ibuprofen can be a helpful tool in managing the symptoms of severe sunburn, it is essential to treat sunburn with a comprehensive approach and to seek medical advice when necessary.