What You Should Know About Sun Poisoning Symptoms

Polymorphous light (PML) eruption is a skin disorder in which people can only tolerate very short amounts of exposure to sunlight (usually 30 minutes) before breaking out into a rash. People with PML must be cautious, avoiding sunlight during maximum intensity, which is late morning through early afternoon, and always wearing sunscreen and clothing that covers the skin.

Sun Poisoning

Sun poisoning refers to a case of severe sunburn. It occurs after you’ve been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun for an extended period of time.

Also known as polymorphic light eruption, sun poisoning can come in different forms based on your sensitivity to the sun. Unlike a mild sunburn, sun poisoning usually requires medical treatment to prevent complications.

With sun poisoning, you may first experience symptoms of a regular sunburn. Sunburn symptoms can appear within 6 to 12 hours of exposure to UV rays. It’s important to distinguish between the symptoms of a sun rash, sunburn, and sun poisoning.

Sun rash

A sun rash (sun allergy) develops from sun exposure, sun poisoning, or exposure to outdoor plants such as parsnip. It’s sometimes hereditary. The resulting symptoms of a sun allergy reaction look like a widespread red rash. It’s also extremely itchy. The rash can develop small bumps that look like hives.

Sun allergies occur regularly from sun exposure and may need regular treatment from a dermatologist. A sun rash that develops from sun poisoning is more of an isolated event that needs medical attention.

Pre-tax flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are often touted as the answer to high out-of-pocket medical costs, but many FSAs have “use it or lose it” rules. FSA holders lose $50 to $100 per year on average, CBS News reported, but since you’re allowed to contribute up to $2,650, you could risk losing thousands of dollars if you don’t spend your FSA money in time.

Mild sunburn

In cases of mild sunburn, you might experience redness, pain, and swelling. A sunburn eventually heals on its own, although applying aloe vera gel can help soothe your skin.

Sometimes a cold bath or over-the-counter pain relievers can relieve discomfort, too. Eventually, sunburn heals on its own without any significant complications.

Symptoms of sun poisoning

Sun poisoning, on the other hand, is significantly worse than a mild sunburn. In addition to the usual sunburn-like symptoms, you might experience:

• blistering or peeling skin
• severe redness and pain
• fever (and sometimes chills)
• dehydration
• confusion
• nausea or vomiting
• headaches
• dizziness
• fainting

The term “sun poisoning” can be a bit misleading, as it presumes you are somehow poisoned because of sun exposure. Sun poisoning actually refers to a severe burn from UV-ray exposure. This can happen from being out in the sun too long, not wearing sunscreen, or perhaps forgetting to take extra precautions if you’re at an increased risk for sunburn.

You may also be at an increased risk of sun poisoning if you:

• have fair skin
• have relatives who’ve had skin cancer
• are taking antibiotics
• take oral contraceptives
• are using certain herbal supplements, such as St. John’s wort
• apply citrus oils to the skin prior to sun exposure
• live in a region that’s near the equator
• reside in high altitudes (such as mountainous regions)
• frequent the beach, as sunlight reflects more intensely off sand and water
• engage in regular snow activities during the winter — sun reflects off snow, too
• are using alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as chemical peels

If you think you have sun poisoning, you need to see a doctor right away. They can help provide treatment to prevent related complications, such as skin damage and severe dehydration.

In some cases, you might need to go to the emergency room, especially if you are dehydrated or have flu-like symptoms, such as fever or muscle aches.

At the ER, your doctor will check your vitals, as well as the severity of your sunburn.

Your doctor may treat sun poisoning with cool water or compresses. Applying lotion to your skin while it’s damp can help peeling skin retain the most moisture possible. Also, drinking fluids can help replenish moisture lost from extremely dry skin.

Sun poisoning may also be treated with:

• intravenous (IV) fluids for dehydration
• steroid creams for painful blistering sunburns
• oral steroids for pain and swelling
• prescription pain medications if OTC versions aren’t providing relief
• topical antibiotics to prevent infection

Sun poisoning, when treated promptly, will heal over time. In the most severe cases, people with sun poisoning may be transferred to the hospital’s burn unit.

When left untreated, sun poisoning can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. Dehydration develops quickly, so it’s important to drink water or electrolytes after you’ve been in the sun.

Infection is also a possibility. This can develop if your skin is punctured from scratching at the burn, or from popping blisters. To prevent infection, let your skin be. If you notice any oozing or red streaks, see your doctor right away. This could indicate a more severe infection that has possibly spread to your bloodstream, and you may need oral antibiotics.

Another complication of sun poisoning may not appear until long after the burning, blisters, and pain have gone away. People who experience severe sunburns are at a higher risk of developing premature wrinkles and skin spots later in life. Your risk for skin cancer may also increase.

Sun poisoning is a severe complication of sunburn, and it can get worse if you don’t treat it right away.

A typical mild sunburn heals within a week. Sun poisoning, on the other hand, can take several weeks to completely go away — it all depends on the extent of the damage to your skin.

The best way to prevent sun poisoning is to minimize unnecessary UV exposure. First, you should wear sunscreen every day, regardless of whether it’s a warm, sunny day, or a cold cloudy day. Vanderbilt University Medical Center recommends a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Make sure the product you’re using guards against both UVA and UVB rays for the most protection. You’ll need to reapply your sunscreen if you sweat or go swimming — preferably every two hours in these instances.

You can also reduce excessive exposure by wearing hats and cool cotton clothing. Also, consider staying indoors when sun rays are at their highest: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Last medically reviewed on October 24, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• 5 ways to treat sunburn. (2016).
  skincancer.org/prevention/sunburn/five-ways-to-treat-a-sunburn
• Gibson LE. (2015). Sun rash: Causes and prevention.
  mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/polymorphous-light-eruption/expert-answers/sun-rash/faq-20058163
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2015). Sun allergy.
  mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sun-allergy/basics/definition/CON-20035077
• Sunburn. (2017).
  nhs.uk/Conditions/Sunburn/Pages/Introduction.aspx
• Sunburn (sun poisoning). (n.d.).
  childrenshospital.vanderbilt.org/library/article.php?ContentTypeId=3&ContentId=85327&Category=Pregnancy%20Complications&SubtopicId=26075&lang=en&section=26070

What You Should Know About Sun Poisoning Symptoms

It’s that familiar tenderness you associate with the average sunburn — the red shoulder or thigh that momentarily turns white when you press a finger against it.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

But then, things take a turn for the worse after a few hours. You develop a blistering rash that itches and burns like mad. You start getting the chills and/or you get extremely thirsty. You might even experience nausea. These are a few possible symptoms of what we know as sun poisoning.

Family medicine doctor Matthew Goldman, MD, explains what sun poisoning is, how long it can last and ways you can prevent it from happening.

Symptoms of sun poisoning

Even though sun poisoning isn’t a formal medical term, we’ve all heard of it. It often mimics a flu bug or allergic reaction. As a result, you can find yourself shivering in bed with a headache, fever and chills — all wrapped up with the redness, pain and sensitivity of a sun-scorched skin patch.

Sun poisoning can cause a range of symptoms (depending on the severity). These may include:

• Severe rash.
• Blistering or peeling skin.
• Nausea.
• Dehydration.
• Dizziness.
• Confusion.
• Lightheadedness.
• Shortness of breath.
• Fainting.

Sometimes, it can also cause blisters to form on your lips.

Can sun poisoning make you sick?

The answer is a complicated one. When you have sun poisoning, you’re not actually poisoned by UV (ultraviolet) rays. What you’re actually experiencing is intense pain and other reactions from the damage dealt to your skin. If you’re experiencing sickness, nausea, dizzying or general illness, chances are, this is as a result of being severely dehydrated.

It’s important that if you experience any of these symptoms, you drink plenty of water and electrolytes to keep yourself hydrated and clear-minded. It’s also important to avoid touching the affected areas whenever possible.

How long does it take for sun poisoning to go away?

Sun poisoning can last weeks depending on the severity of the burn. If you scratch or pick at the burn, you run the risk of getting an infection. If you notice any bleeding or oozing, you should see your doctor immediately because it could be a sign of infection.

Treatment for sun poisoning can include:

• Cold baths or cold compresses.
• Steroid creams.
• Oral steroids.
• Prescription pain medications.
• Topical antibiotics.
• IV fluids for dehydration.

Facts about sun poisoning

Sun poisoning isn’t well understood. Here are some important things to know:

1. Causes aren’t clearly understood

There are a lot of possible causes for sun poisoning and in some cases, it has no known cause. Sun poisoning is more likely to occur in some people than others, especially if you have fair skin, have a family history of skin cancer or live near the equator. Still, sun poisoning does not affect everyone.

2. Most people don’t realize what can put you at risk

Certain pre-existing conditions, medications and/or chemical exposure may predispose someone to sun poisoning. This can include lupus, certain antibiotics, topical medications or contact with certain plants.

3. Treatment varies depending on your specific symptoms

Sun poisoning affects different people differently, so doctors tend to focus treatment on a person’s specific symptoms.

4. Suspected cases warrant a doctor’s visit

If you have symptoms of sun poisoning, it’s important to see your medical provider. After examining you, they can determine the severity of the problem, as well as the best treatment.

How to prevent sun poisoning

To prevent sun poisoning, you want to take the same precautions that help you avoid sunburn. Here are some important tips to follow the next time you go outside:

• Use sunscreen. Use broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Apply this 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every two hours.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, sunglasses, gloves and broad-brim hats. Tightly woven fabrics, thick and/or dark-colored clothing are also useful for protection.
• Avoid peak hours in the summer months. This means staying out of the sun for extended periods of time between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Keep infants younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight.
• Avoid tanning beds.
• Be aware of medication side effects.

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

What Is Sun Poisoning?

Kathi Valeii is a freelance writer covering the intersections of health, parenting, and social justice.

Published on January 18, 2023

Mary Choy, PharmD, is board-certified in geriatric pharmacotherapy and is an active leader in professional pharmacy associations.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents

Sun poisoning is a form of severe sunburn. Beyond red, inflamed, and painful skin, those with sun poisoning also often exhibit other bodily symptoms that may mimic an allergic reaction. Excessive and unprotected exposure to the sun causes sun poisoning.

This article explains sun poisoning symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention.

Sun Poisoning Symptoms

Sunburn symptoms include redness, warmth, pain, and swelling. Sun poisoning has severe sunburn symptoms, plus others. Sunburn and sun poisoning symptoms usually start within a few hours of excess sun exposure.

Sun poisoning symptoms include:

• Blistering
• Headache
• Fever
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Rapid pulse and breathing
• Feeling faint
• Loss of consciousness
• Dehydration

Sun poisoning symptoms can last for a few days to several weeks. Your healthcare provider diagnoses sun poisoning based on symptoms and by looking at your skin.

Causes and Risk Factors

Sun poisoning is caused by too much exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is most common in warmer climates and times of the year when people are likely to spend more time in the sun.

While anyone can get sun poisoning if they spend too much time in the sun without appropriate cover and sunscreen, certain people are more susceptible to it.

Lupus

Photosensitivity is an unusual skin reaction to sunlight and a well-documented lupus symptom. Up to 60% of people with this autoimmune disease experience photosensitivity. People with lupus should take extra precautions to stay covered and use sunscreen—even on overcast days.

Eczema

While sunlight treats some eczema, other types, called photosensitive eczema, are exacerbated by exposure to sunlight. This condition is rare, but it can sometimes occur after having eczema for some time. Therefore, people with eczema should also take extra precautions in the sun.

Polymorphous Light Eruption

Polymorphous light (PML) eruption is a skin disorder in which people can only tolerate very short amounts of exposure to sunlight (usually 30 minutes) before breaking out into a rash. People with PML must be cautious, avoiding sunlight during maximum intensity, which is late morning through early afternoon, and always wearing sunscreen and clothing that covers the skin.

Xeroderma Pigmentosum

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a disease that causes extreme sensitivity to UV light, occurring in about 1 in 1 million people in the United States. As a result, people with XP are more likely to experience severe sunburns and are, therefore, at a higher likelihood of getting skin cancer. Therefore, people with this condition must take extreme precautions when in the sun to prevent skin damage and prolong life.

Certain Medications

Photosensitivity reactions to medications may increase the risk of sun poisoning. These types of drugs include:

• Antihistamines
• Coal tar (a byproduct of coal used to treat skin conditions)
• Some birth control
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Phenothiazines (antipsychotic)
• Psoralens (used to treat skin conditions)
• Some antibiotics like sulfonamides and tetracyclines
• Sulfonylureas (diabetes medication)
• Thiazide diuretics
• Tricyclic antidepressants

If you take any medications, review the side effects carefully and talk to a healthcare provider about precautions you should take in the sun.

Treatment

The type of treatment you receive for sun poisoning depends on the severity. Some at-home remedies can keep you comfortable, while medical attention may be required to prevent infection or replenish fluids.

Unfortunately, there is no fast way to cure sun poisoning; like sunburn, you will have to wait for your skin to heal and your immune system to calm down. The good news is you can do plenty of things to ease the discomfort as your body heals.

At-home care includes:

• Drinking fluids
• Applying cold compresses or aloe vera gel
• Using cool (not cold) water when bathing
• Avoiding scented items like lotions, which may irritate tender skin
• Avoiding the sun
• Covering sunburned areas when going outside

Medical care may involve:

• Antibiotics to prevent infection
• Pain medications
• Medications to reduce swelling
• IV fluids for dehydration
• Steroid creams for burns

In addition, you should avoid alcohol, wear loose clothing, and avoid popping blisters.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience symptoms of sun poisoning, it’s best to seek medical advice. That is especially true if you experience the following:

• Severe sunburns covering more than 15% of your body
• Dehydration
• Fever over 101 F
• Extreme pain that lasts longer than 48 hours

Prevention

Sun poisoning is entirely preventable. You can prevent sun poisoning and sunburn in the following ways:

• Staying in the shade
• Wearing long sleeves and pants
• Wearing a sun hat
• Wearing sunglasses
• Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher
• Reapplying sunscreen every couple of hours and after swimming

Remember that UV rays can be dangerous even on cloudy days. So use as many prevention strategies as possible any day you are outside, regardless of the weather.

Prognosis

Most of the time, sun poisoning and sunburn heal with comfort measures and time. However, there is an immediate risk of dehydration and shock, which is why medical advice is essential. In addition, your skin can become infected, especially if you scratch or peel the affected skin.

The long-term consequence of sun poisoning is an increased risk of skin cancer. Exposure to UV rays is a significant risk factor for developing melanoma, the most severe skin cancer. Melanoma on the trunk and legs has been linked to frequent sunburns, especially in childhood.

Summary

In addition to red, inflamed, painful skin, sun poisoning is a severe sunburn that may include other body-wide symptoms. These symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, headache, fever, and dehydration. Sun poisoning can be serious, so seek medical attention if you experience symptoms. People with lupus, eczema, and certain photosensitive skin conditions are more susceptible to sun poisoning. Some medications can increase the risk, as well. Therefore, implementing safe sun practices, like always wearing sunscreen, staying in the shade, and wearing clothing that covers your skin, is so important.

11 Sources

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sun exposure—sunburn.
2. American Family Care Health Centers. Sun poisoning: causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor.
3. University of Pittsburg Medical Center. Sun poisoning dangers: symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
4. Kim A, Chong BF. Photosensitivity in cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2013;29(1):4-11. doi:10.1111/phpp.12018
5. University of Michigan Health Lab. Skin’s immune ‘alarm’ may explain light-induced rashes in lupus patients.
6. National Eczema Society. Sun and eczema.
7. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Polymorphous light eruption.
8. Black JO. Xeroderma Pigmentosum. Head Neck Pathol. 2016;10(2):139-144. doi:10.1007/s12105-016-0707-8
9. Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Medications and other agents that increase sensitivity to light.
10. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sun safety.
11. American Cancer Society. Risk factors for melanoma skin cancer.

By Kathi Valeii
As a freelance writer, Kathi has experience writing both reported features and essays for national publications on the topics of healthcare, advocacy, and education. The bulk of her work centers on parenting, education, health, and social justice.