A severe case of sunburn can lead to sun poisoning. Symptoms may start out similar to a sunburn, but sun poisoning can lead to complications like infection or increased risk for skin cancer if left untreated.
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.
What are the symptoms of sun poisoning?
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.
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:
