☀️ Sunburn & Sun Poisoning: What You Need to Know This Summer

🔥 What Is Sunburn?

Sunburn is a skin injury caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun (or tanning beds). It may not seem serious, but repeated sunburns can damage your skin cells and increase your risk for skin cancer over time.

Common symptoms include:

• Red, warm, painful skin

• Swelling

• Peeling (a few days later)

• Itching or tenderness

Mild sunburn usually resolves in a few days, but deeper burns can last longer and may even blister.

🌡️ What Is Sun Poisoning?

“Sun poisoning” is not a medical term, but it refers to a severe sunburn that goes beyond surface skin damage and may trigger a systemic reaction.

Symptoms of sun poisoning may include:

• Severe redness and blistering

• Headache or dizziness

• Fever or chills

• Nausea or vomiting

• Rapid heartbeat

• Dehydration

• Confusion or fainting in extreme cases

These symptoms can feel like the flu — and they mean it’s time to get medical help.

🧴 How to Prevent Sunburn and Sun Poisoning

The good news is both conditions are completely preventable. Here’s how:

1. Use Sunscreen Daily:

Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours (or after swimming/sweating).

2. Avoid Peak Sun Hours:

The sun’s rays are strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try to stay in the shade during this window.

3. Wear Protective Clothing:

Lightweight long sleeves, hats with wide brims, and UV-blocking sunglasses can go a long way.

4. Don’t Forget Hidden Spots:

Ears, lips, tops of feet, and the back of the neck are commonly forgotten — but they burn too!

5. Stay Hydrated:

Dehydration can make sun symptoms worse. Drink water consistently throughout the day.

🩹 How to Treat Sunburn at Home

If you’ve already gotten burned, here’s how to soothe your skin:

• Apply cool compresses to the affected area.

• Use aloe vera or fragrance-free moisturizers.

• Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Avoid popping blisters — they protect the skin underneath as it heals.

🩺 When to See a Doctor

Reach out to a healthcare provider or seek virtual urgent care if:

• You have blisters covering a large area of your body.

• You experience fever, chills, confusion, nausea, or rapid heart rate.

• You show signs of infection (pus, increased redness, or swelling).

• You’re unable to keep fluids down or feel faint.

At Entelihelth, our board-certified providers are available 24/7 via text and telemedicine visits. If you’re unsure whether your sun symptoms are serious, we can help assess and guide you — no waiting room required.

☀️ In Summary

Sunburn is common, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Repeated sun damage adds up over time, increasing your risk for long-term health issues. With simple preventative steps and prompt treatment, you can enjoy the sunshine safely.

Stay cool, stay protected — and reach out if you need us!

Need help fast?

We offer concierge virtual care for adults and children — including quick, expert care for sunburn and other summer-related conditions.

📲 Book a virtual visit anytime.