Beta Carotene For Sun Poisoning

A severe reaction to sunburn, often referred to as sun poisoning, can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea and rash, according to MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. People with increased sun sensitivity may have a higher risk of sun poisoning. Beta-carotene can help prevent sunburn and sun poisoning in individuals with extreme sun sensitivity.

Beta-Carotene

Beta-carotene is a pigmented carotenoid found in yellow, orange and green fruits and vegetables, including squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, tomatoes and cantaloupe. The more vivid a food's color, the more beta-carotene it contains, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. The body converts beta-carotene to vitamin A, an essential vitamin that plays a role in vision, immune function and skin health.

Eryhtropoietic Protoporphyria

Erythropoietic protoporphyria, a rare genetic blood disorder, causes extreme sensitivity to sunlight. This disease can also cause liver damage, gallstones, abdominal pain and enlargement of the spleen, according to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. Beta-carotene has proven effective at treating and decreasing sun sensitivity in people with this disease, according to MedlinePlus.

Research

A 1977 study in the American Medical Association's Archives of Dermatology found that high doses of oral beta-carotene reduced improved sun tolerance by a factor of 3 or more in 84 percent of patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. A study published in the journal "Dermatologica" in 1979 found that daily doses of 50 to 200 mg of beta-carotene over a five-year period relieved all sun-sensitivity symptoms in 18 of 36 patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria and reduced side effects to some extent in 16 patients.

Supplements

You can take beta-carotene supplements in capsule and gel forms. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosage. Beta-carotene, a fat-soluble nutrient, requires some fat for proper absorption. Take beta-carotene supplements with meals that provide at least 3 g of fat, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Sunburn Prevention and Home Treatment

Healthy individuals without increased sun sensitivity should still apply sunscreen generously to prevent sunburn. Use sunscreen with an SPF level of 30 or higher, suggests MedlinePlus. Home treatments and relief for sunburns include wet, cold rags, dry bandages to prevent infection and over-the-counter pain relievers. Contact a doctor if you experience severe symptoms with sunburn, such as dizziness, fever, nausea, cool skin, extreme thirst or severe blisters.