The spring season is finally here! With longer days and warmer temperatures, spring is a great time to soak up the sun and enjoy being outside. However, spending too much time under the sun can cause sunburns, which can be painful and dangerous for your skin. While sunburns can be effectively prevented, there’s a chance you may still get burnt this summer leaving you with the question… Can sunburns make you feel sick? The answer is yes, and this blog will discuss the reasons why.
For same-day urgent care services, visit AFC Urgent Care Paramus! Our medical team can provide health and wellness guidance and treat all general illnesses on a walk-in basis.
Why Your Sunburn is Making You Feel Sick
There are a few reasons why sunburns can cause you to feel unwell. Firstly, sunburns cause dehydration which can lead to illness symptoms. When you’re out in the sun, your body loses fluids through sweating. When these fluids aren’t replenished properly, you can become dehydrated. Dehydration causes dizziness, fatigue, and headaches which can all make you feel sick. Additionally, sunburns can also cause a fever. When you damage your skin, your body may respond by increasing your internal temperature which in turn can cause a fever.
Furthermore, sunburns can cause nausea and vomiting. When your body is exposed to too much sun, it can release inflammatory chemicals that can cause feelings of nausea. These symptoms can become more severe depending on the severity of your sunburn. Lastly, sunburns can weaken your overall immune system which can make you more susceptible to infections. If you do become infected with an illness, you could experience fever, fatigue, and body aches.
Tips For Preventing Sunburns
It’s important to know how to prevent sunburns in order to protect your skin and avoid feelings of sickness. Follow these tips:
1. Apply sunscreen regularly: Make sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every two hours. Sunscreen should be applied more often if you are swimming or participating in physical activity that induces sweat.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water and sports drinks help prevent dehydration from the sun.
3. Seek shade: If possible, stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day. Consider checking when the UV index is highest and avoid direct sunlight during those hours.
4. Wear protective clothing: Cover your skin with light-colored and loose fitted clothing. It’s a good idea to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes.
Seek Health & Wellness Guidance at AFC Urgent Care Paramus
Sunburns can make you feel sick, from dehydration, fever, nausea, and a weakened immune system. Make sure you’re taking steps to prevent sunburns. If you do experience severe symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. By taking the proper precautions and protecting yourself from the sun, you can enjoy the season without inducing feelings of sickness. AFC Urgent Care Paramus is open seven days a week and provides all patients in the area with preventative and immediate care. Just walk in! If you have any further questions, please contact us directly at (201) 262-2010.
