Think you have a really bad case of sunburn? It might be sun poisoning. Learn how to spot the difference & stop by our clinic for same-day care. 

It could happen anywhere, exploring Zoo Knoxville or cheering on your son’s baseball team at Tommy Schumpert Park. Too much time in the sun, plus not enough sunscreen, equals bright red skin that’s radiating heat. Most of the time, a sunburn is more uncomfortable than dangerous, and a few days of aloe and hydration do the trick. 

But what happens when it’s more than just a bad burn? 

Sun poisoning is a more severe reaction to UV exposure, and it often requires more than at-home care. If you’re not sure whether you’re dealing with a bad sunburn or something that calls for medical attention, this blog will help you tell the difference, and know when to head to AFC Fountain City for help. 

Visit AFC Fountain City today.  

What Is Sun Poisoning? 

Despite the name, sun poisoning doesn’t involve toxins or actual poisoning. It’s a term used to describe a serious inflammatory reaction to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, usually too much of it. Sun poisoning typically comes from the sun, but it can also happen with tanning beds. 

What sets sun poisoning apart from a regular sunburn is the severity and system-wide symptoms. It often looks and feels like a very intense sunburn, but with additional signs that your body is under stress. 

Symptoms That Go Beyond a Typical Sunburn 

A regular sunburn causes red, sore skin that may peel after a few days. Sun poisoning, on the other hand, goes further. Symptoms may appear within hours or develop more gradually over 24 to 48 hours. 

Here’s what to look out for: 

• Deep redness, swelling and tenderness 
• Blistering or painful welts 
• Itchy rashes, hives or small bumps 
• Fever and chills 
• Headache or dizziness 
• Fatigue or nausea 
• Dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, lightheadedness) 

If your sunburn comes with these more intense symptoms, it’s a strong sign that you’re dealing with more than just surface-level damage. 

What Causes Sun Poisoning? 

Sun poisoning is most commonly caused by extended time in direct sunlight without adequate protection, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are at their peak. 

Other contributing factors include: 

• Not reapplying sunscreen frequently enough 
• Wearing minimal or non-protective clothing 
• Being near reflective surfaces like water or sand 
• Having fair or sensitive skin 
• Certain medications that increase sun sensitivity 

While anyone can get sun poisoning, it often happens when people underestimate just how strong the sun is.  

Why It’s More Than Just a Skin Issue 

Sun poisoning isn’t only about skin damage, it can affect your entire body. Prolonged UV exposure can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke if left untreated. The combination of skin damage and fluid loss can overwhelm your system, like in hot, humid climates like we experience here in Fountain City. 

This is why it’s so important to take symptoms seriously because what starts on your skin can quickly turn into a much larger issue. 

When to Skip the Aloe and Seek Medical Help 

So, when should you come in to see a provider at AFC Fountain City? 

We recommend skipping the home remedies and coming in if you experience: 

• Fever over 100.4°F 
• Severe blistering or signs of infection (pus, increased redness, swelling) 
• Dizziness, confusion or fainting 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Symptoms of dehydration that don’t improve with fluid intake 
• A sunburn that worsens over time instead of improving 

If you’re unsure whether it’s serious, we’re here to help evaluate and treat your symptoms, fast. 

How AFC Fountain City Can Help 

At AFC Fountain City, we offer walk-in care every day of the week, no appointment needed. If you’re dealing with severe sun exposure, our team can: 

• Assess the extent of skin damage 
• Treat or clean blistered or infected skin 
• Prescribe stronger topical creams or oral antihistamines 
• Help manage dehydration and related heat illness symptoms 
• Rule out other causes of rash or discomfort (like allergic reactions) 

Our providers are also trained to recognize the early warning signs of heat exhaustion, which sometimes accompanies sun poisoning in more severe cases. 

Tips to Prevent Severe Sun Exposure 

We get it, there’s no avoiding the sun completely in East Tennessee. But you can reduce your risk with a few smart habits: 

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ and reapply every 2 hours 
• Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses 
• Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. 
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day 
• Pay attention to your skin and how your body feels during outdoor activity 

Final Takeaways 

A sunburn should improve with time and care. If your symptoms are sticking around, or getting worse, it might be time to do more than just apply aloe. 

AFC Fountain City is here to help you recover quickly and safely. Whether it’s a mild case or something more serious, our experienced providers can help you get the answers and the relief you need.