Have you ever spent time in the sun, then felt dizzy, lightheaded, or disoriented? You’re not alone. Dizziness after sun exposure is a common concern, especially during the summer months when the UV is strong. While it may seem like a mild reaction, it could be a sign of something more serious– like dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke. In this blog, we’ll explore why you might feel dizzy after being in the sun, the symptoms to watch for, and tips for staying safe as temperatures rise.
For same-day heat-related illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our medical providers are available 7 days a week to diagnose and treat your condition. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Common Causes of Dizziness After Sun Exposure
1. Dehydration
Spending time in the heat naturally causes your body to sweat more in an effort to cool itself down. If you’re not replenishing fluids and electrolytes, this can quickly lead to dehydration– a major cause of dizziness. Signs of dehydration may include dry mouth or excessive thirst, dark yellow urine, headache, fatigue, and dizziness or lightheadedness when standing. Even mild dehydration can affect your blood pressure and circulation, leading to that faint, dizzy feeling after sun exposure.
2. Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats due to prolonged sun exposure or physical activity in hot weather. It’s more serious than simple dehydration and can progress quickly if not addressed. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness or fainting, nausea, rapid heartbeat, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, clammy skin, and headache. If untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening.
3. Low Blood Pressure
Being in the sun for too long can cause your blood vessels to dilate, especially in your skin, to release heat. This can lower your blood pressure and reduce blood flow to the brain– leading to dizziness, blurred vision, or even fainting. This effect is more pronounced in people who are taking certain medications, standing for long periods, or have chronic medical conditions.
4. Sun Sensitivity or Heat Intolerance
Some people are simply more sensitive to the sun and heat than others. Conditions like POTS, multiple sclerosis, or certain hormonal imbalances can make your body feel less efficient at regulating temperature and circulation. In these cases, even moderate sun exposure might cause lightheadedness or fatigue.
How To Prevent Dizziness From Sun Exposure
If you’re prone to feeling dizzy in the sun, here are simple but effective steps to protect yourself:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Add electrolytes if you’re doing any physical activity
- Take breaks in the shade and don’t stay in direct sunlight for too long
- Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your body from direct sunlight
- Recognize early warning signs. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, or tired, get out of the sun and find a cool place to drink water and rest
Occasional dizziness after being in the sun can be manageable, but if your symptoms are worsening or persistent, seek urgent care.
Get Heat-Related Illness Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Union City
Feeling dizzy after being in the sun isn’t something to ignore– it’s your body’s way of telling you it’s overheated or dehydrated. Whether it’s due to mild dehydration or early signs of heat exhaustion, understanding the cause can help you respond quickly and prevent complications. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit us at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our medical team can provide fast, expert care and help rule out more serious issues. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about heat-related illness treatment, or other services we provide, please contact a member of our team directly at (551) 257-1948.
