Locations:
Search IconSearch

What You Should Know About Sun Poisoning Symptoms

Sun poisoning is a severe sunburn that seems similar to an allergic reaction

Woman rubbing lotion on her sun burnt shoulder.

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

People enjoying walking outdoors in the snow, with sun shining
February 20, 2025/Primary Care
The Health Benefits of Sunshine (and How Much You Need Per Day)

Just 10 to 30 minutes of sunlight provides vitamin D, boosts your mood and may even help you sleep better

Pile of tanning pills
July 23, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Is It Safe To Use Tanning Pills?

The results aren’t great, and the risks — like vision problems — aren’t worth it

Glass of beer on table at beach with beach-goers
June 3, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Why Experts Say To Avoid Beer Tanning

You’re putting your skin at risk of sunburn and even skin cancer when you pour on the beer

Man sitting down at beach workout area with head in hand, eye closed
April 8, 2024/Primary Care
Why Does the Sun Make You Tired? Here Are 7 Reasons

Your body works overtime to keep you cool on hot summer days, bringing on sun fatigue

person getting a spray tan
April 20, 2023/Skin Care & Beauty
Are Spray Tans Safe?

Compared to other tanning methods, they’re the safest choice — but they’re not entirely risk-free

person on beach applying sunscreen
March 23, 2023/Exercise & Fitness
Love Outdoor Workouts and Sports? Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen

Make sure you use a high SPF formula, apply enough and reapply throughout the day

Closeup of nasal tanning spray being used in nose.
November 1, 2022/Skin Care & Beauty
Why You Should Never Use Nasal Tanning Spray

You risk serious and even life-threatening health complications, from muscle injury to melanoma

Woman and children wearing UV protective clothes at the beach.
June 29, 2022/Skin Care & Beauty
Does Sun-Protective Clothing Actually Work?

Apparel provides an easier and larger barrier against UV rays

Trending Topics

Person in bed sleeping on their side, covers off
Breathing Problems? Try These Sleep Positions

If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help

A couple looking at skyline, with one person slightly behind the other, head bent down
What Is Anxious Attachment Style — and Do You Have It?

If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style

Glasses and bottle of yellow-colored prebiotic soda, with mint, lemon and ginger garnish
Are Prebiotic Sodas Good for You?

If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods

Ad