As warmer weather and sunshine starts to roll in, this time of year is all about spending time outdoors and soaking up the sun. If done safely and with the correct precautions, time outside in the sun brings a number of health benefits. However, laying-out on a hot day without any preparation can lead to a nasty sunburn—it can even lead to sun poisoning.

Sun poisoning is nothing to fool around with. The chances of ending up with a bad case of it are relatively high this time of year. Here’s what you need to know about sun poisoning, as well as how to avoid ending up with it in the first place.

What is Sun Poisoning?

Sun poisoning is a term used to describe an extreme sunburn. While any sunburn can be uncomfortable, sun poisoning can cause large blisters and lead to long-term complications like premature aging/wrinkling and an increased risk of skin cancer. The condition—which tends to be acute—typically occurs in those who spend a significant amount of time out in the sun without wearing any form of sun protection.

There are a number of risk factors that can influence a person’s likelihood to get burned while spending time out in the sun, including the following:

• Fair skin
• Young or old in age
• Exposure to reflected sunlight (such as off of water)
• Medications such as antibiotics, Accutane or birth control pills

What are the Symptoms of Sun Poisoning?

The extent to which someone may experience symptoms associated with sun poisoning can vary significantly from case to case. Even with severe burns, symptoms may not appear for 6-10 hours after exposure, often first manifesting in the form of redness, swelling and itching of the affected areas.

People with severe sun poisoning can also have heat stroke or heat exhaustion (when the body temperature is extremely high). The following symptoms extend beyond the discomfort associated with most sunburns and may indicate a medical emergency:

• Fever
• Headache
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Fainting

Patients experiencing any of the above symptoms should seek medical attention ASAP!

Diagnosing and Treating Sun Poisoning

Protocol for treating sunburns and cases of sun poisoning differs depending upon the severity of the burn. A physical examination and patient symptom report can usually be enough to develop a treatment plan.

With mild burns, treatment consists of hydration with plenty of fluids, cool compresses (or soaks in cool water) and possibly application of a medicated cream.

Treating severe cases of sun poisoning may involve the use of pain medication and oral steroids in addition to cool water soaks and possible IV hydration.

What Can You Do to Prevent Sun Poisoning?

Long-term exposure to the sun can lead to a number of health issues, including advanced wrinkling and even skin cancer. Fortunately, sun poisoning is highly preventable with even just a small amount of preparation. Here are just a few tips to help keep your skin safe this summer:

1. When appropriate, wear clothing to cover up and/or a wide-brimmed hat when spending more than 30-40 minutes in the sun.
2. Wear sunscreen every day—even when it’s cloudy outside. SPF 15 or higher is preferable. Be sure your sunscreen is not expired!
3. Stay out of the sun between the hours of 10am and 3pm, as UV rays are strongest during this time of the day.
4. Take “shade breaks” every few minutes to ensure you don’t over-expose your skin to UV rays.
5. Stay hydrated!

Even mild sunburns can be painful. Sun poisoning can lead to a number of extremely unpleasant symptoms and heat exhaustion or heat stroke can be very dangerous. If you or a family member end up spending a bit too much time in the sun, stop into any ConvenientMD location in Maine, New Hampshire or Massachusetts to get treated.

Stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine!

Please note, ConvenientMD clinics are following strict protocols to keep patients and team members safe and healthy. Learn more about ConvenientMD’s COVID-19 safety policies.

Reviewed by Hillary Cerretani, PA-C, Regional Advanced Practitioner Director – Massachusetts