Spending time in the sun is one of the best parts of summer—but too much sun exposure can lead to serious skin damage. If your sunburn comes with symptoms like blisters, fever, or nausea, you may be dealing with sun poisoning.
In this guide, we’ll explain what sun poisoning is, how to tell it apart from a mild sunburn, and what steps to take to treat or prevent it. Knowing the signs early can help you protect your skin and avoid complications.
What Is Sun Poisoning?
Sun poisoning is a severe skin reaction to overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Despite the name, it doesn’t involve actual poisoning—it’s a more intense version of sunburn that may also be referred to as sun allergy or polymorphic light eruption.
Unlike a typical sunburn, which causes redness and discomfort, sun poisoning can lead to blisters, dehydration, fever, and even confusion or nausea. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, skin type, or previous sunburn history.
Symptoms of Sun Poisoning
Watch for these signs that your sunburn may be more serious:
- Red, swollen, or blistered skin
- Severe pain or sensitivity
- Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness
- Fever and chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dehydration or confusion
These symptoms often appear several hours after sun exposure and may worsen over time if untreated.
How to Prevent Sun Poisoning
The best treatment is prevention. Protect your skin by following these summer sun safety tips:
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every two hours—and more often if swimming or sweating.
- Avoid peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear sun-protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Skip the tanning beds—they emit harmful UV rays and increase your risk of severe burns.
- Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities in the heat.
What to Do at Home for Sun Poisoning
If you think you’re dealing with sun poisoning, take action right away to support healing and reduce symptoms:
- Move indoors or into shade to stop further sun exposure
- Use cool compresses or take a gentle, cool shower
- Drink water to rehydrate and cool your body from the inside out
- Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the skin
- Avoid tight clothing or anything that could further irritate the skin
When to See a Doctor for Sun Poisoning
Mild cases of sunburn can often be managed at home, but more serious symptoms require medical evaluation. Seek care if:
- Your skin is severely blistered or painful
- You experience fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting
- The affected area shows signs of infection, like increased redness, pus, or warmth
- Symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days
Urgent Sunburn Care in San Jose, CA
At Samaritan Medical Care Center, we’re here to help you stay safe and healthy all summer long. If you’re experiencing severe sunburn or sun poisoning, our team offers same-day care for fast relief. We’ll evaluate your symptoms, provide treatment options, and help you recover comfortably.
We’re conveniently located in San Jose, California, and welcome walk-ins and same-day appointments.