Most people have experienced a sunburn at some point– red, sore skin that shows up hours after too much time in the sun. But what many people don’t realize is that sun poisoning is a more severe reaction that goes beyond a typical sunburn. These two conditions are very different in terms of symptoms, severity, and the type of care required. Knowing how to tell the difference can help you decide when to rest at home, and when it may be time to seek medical attention.
For same-day seasonal healthcare, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. We provide sunburn and sun poisoning treatment for all patients on a walk-in basis. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, just pre-register below!
Identifying a Sunburn
A sunburn is a first-degree burn caused by overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. It usually develops a few hours after exposure and peaks in intensity within 24 to 48 hours. Common symptoms associated with a typical sunburn include:
- Red, tender skin
- Warmth or heat in the affected area
- Peeling or flaking after a few days
- Mild swelling
- Itching or discomfort
Sunburn is typically limited to the skin and, although painful, tends to heal within a few days with proper care– cool compresses, aloe vera, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Identifying Sun Poisoning
Sun poisoning refers to a severe sunburn that triggers a systemic reaction, meaning it affects more than just your skin. It can resemble an allergic response or cause flu-like symptoms due to the body’s reaction to excessive UV exposure. Symptoms of sun poisoning include:
- Intense redness and blistering
- Severe pain and swelling
- Headache
- Fever and chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness and dehydration
- Fatigue
These symptoms suggest that your body is overwhelmed by sun exposure and is no longer able to regulate temperature or hydration effectively. If not addressed, sun poisoning can lead to heat exhaustion to heatstroke, which are serious medical conditions. If your symptoms go beyond the skin and include fever and nausea, you’re likely dealing with more than just a sunburn.
When To Visit Urgent Care
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Blistering over a large area
- Signs of infection
- Fever over 101°F
- Nausea, vomiting, dehydration
At an urgent care center, your provider can assess the severity of your condition, provide prescription-strength creams or pain relievers, treat dehydration, and monitor for signs of heat-related illness. Quick treatment helps prevent complications and speeds up recovery.
Get Sunburn & Sun Poisoning Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill
While both sunburn and sun poisoning are caused by UV exposure, sun poisoning is far more serious and requires prompt care. If your sunburn is accompanied by flu-like symptoms or blisters, it’s time to stop guessing and seek medical attention. AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill offers fast, convenient treatment to help you recover safely– so you can get back to enjoying summer, with the right sun protection in place. We are open 7 days a week and provide urgent care services with no appointment necessary. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for any self-paying patient. If you have any additional questions about the summer health services we provide, please call us directly at 303-639-1000.
