Summer is quickly approaching, and the warmer weather calls for days of outdoor fun. However, the summer months also bring with it the risk of sunburn and sun poisoning. While many people may be familiar with the discomfort of sunburn, fewer recognize the signs of sun poisoning– a more serious condition that may require medical attention. In this blog, we’ll explore what sun poisoning is, its symptoms, and what you should do if you suspect you have it.

For same-day seasonal care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our board-certified medical providers specialize in diagnosing and treating various conditions, including sun poisoning. We’re open seven days a week– just walk-in today!

What is Sun Poisoning? 

Sun poisoning, sometimes referred to as photodermatitis, is an extreme reaction to prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. It’s not actually poisoning in the traditional sense, but rather a severe form of sunburn that can cause a range of symptoms beyond redness and discomfort. 

Sun poisoning can manifest differently in each person, but common symptoms include:

• Severe sunburn, including redness, blistering, swelling and pain
• A red, itchy rash that may develop within hours or days after sun exposure
• A high fever, accompanied by chills and nausea
• Headache and dizziness
• Dehydration

How To Know If You Have Sun Poisoning

While mild sunburn can often be treated at home with remedies like aloe vera and over-the-counter pain relievers, sun poisoning requires medical attention. It’s important to be able to identify when a sunburn has progressed to sun poisoning. If your sunburn is extremely painful and covers a large area of your body, it may be a sign of sun poisoning. Blisters that develop on sunburned skin indicate a more severe burn, which could also indicate sun poisoning has developed. Systemic symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, and dizziness suggest that your sunburn has also progressed. If your burn and symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a few days, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention. 

What To Do If You Suspect Sun Poisoning 

If you suspect you have sun poisoning, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. At an urgent care center, your healthcare provider will diagnose your condition by reviewing your medical history and recent sun exposure, as well as performing a thorough physical examination. Your provider will evaluate your symptoms, including the presence of blisters, rash, fever, and headache to determine if they are consistent with sun poisoning. Pain relief is the primary concern for sun poisoning. Your provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort. Supportive care, like rest, hydration, and cool compresses, can also soothe sunburned skin and reduce inflammation. Prevention is always better than the cure, so be sure to practice sun safety measures!

Get Walk-In Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Livingston

While enjoying the sunshine is one of summer’s highlights, it’s important to take precautions to protect your skin from sunburn and sun poisoning. If you suspect you have sun poisoning or another heat-related condition, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our medical team is available to treat your condition, prevent complications, and promote healing. Remember to wear sunscreen, seek shade during peak sun hours, and stay hydrated in order to enjoy the season safely. AFC Urgent Care Livingston is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about our services, please contact our team directly at (973) 601-2626.