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I got a severe sunburn 7 days ago and the swelling has not gone down. Ankles are starting to blister but pain from swelling makes walking almost impossible. How do I relieve swelling?
Optional Information: Person's Gender: Male Person's Age: 50 Already Tried: Elevation of legs most of the day,cleansing of legs and antibacterial spray
Hi,Were the legs the only part sunburned?
Yes front of legs from ankles to just above knee. Pain in shins feet and ankles swollen.
Okay. Any fever? Do you have any preexisting medical illness?Sorry about the delayed response - have been trying to respond for nearly 10 minutes but the site was having trouble.
Negative to both.
The site is really slow today, just got your response. Typing out an answer, be back with you in a few minutes.
Okay
Even a severe sunburn does not have so much pain after 7 days. I strongly suspect you may have a secondary infection of the sunburn and this may be getting deeper causing cellulitis. I would treat a patient like you with a 5 day course of an oral antibiotic like Augmentin or Dicloxacillin along with a short tapering course of oral steroids for the inflammation. Till you can see your doctor I would recommend vinegar compresses on the affected area - thrice a day- followed by neosporin cream. Also take Tablet Advil 400 mg three times a day after meals. Both of these are available over the counter without a prescription. Needless to say get as much rest as possible and keep your legs protected from sunlight.For the compresses: mix half a cup of white vinegar in one liter of tepid water, soak clean cotton or gauze in it and leave over the affected area for 5 minutes and then gently wipe clean. Store the mixture in the refrigerator when not in use.Please feel free to ask if you have any queries.NOTE: Please remember to only rate my answer when you are completely satisfied. If you feel the need to click either "Helped a little" or "I expected more", please stop and reply to me via the CONTINUE CONVERSATION button with the issue you have. I will be happy to continue further and do everything I can to provide you with the service you seek.
Experience: MBBS, MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology)