The symptoms of sunburn can vary in severity but usually begin to appear within a few hours after sun exposure. Common symptoms include redness of the skin, swelling, blisters, pain or peeling, and systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or nausea.

EXPERT CARE FOR SUNBURN

Urgent Care Sunburn Treatment

Sunburn is a common condition resulting from overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. At AllCare, we provide comprehensive care for sunburn, ensuring effective treatment and prevention strategies to protect your skin and and prevent cancerous lesions.

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What is Sunburn?

Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to too much UV radiation, leading to damage to the skin cells. This damage triggers an inflammatory response, resulting in the symptoms commonly associated with sunburn. The severity of sunburn can range from mild redness to severe blistering and discomfort.

Symptoms of Sunburn

The symptoms of sunburn can vary in severity but usually begin to appear within a few hours after sun exposure. The most noticeable symptom is redness of the skin, which may be accompanied by warmth and tenderness to the touch. Other common symptoms include:

Swelling
Blisters, pain, or peeling of the skin
Systemic symptoms like fever and nausea
Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or nausea

What Causes Sunburn?

Sunburn is caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, triggering an inflammatory response that leads to the characteristic redness, pain, and other symptoms of sunburn. Several factors can influence the likelihood and severity of sunburn, including the type and intensity of UV radiation, skin type, and the duration of exposure.

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Sunburn Exams at AllCare

Diagnosing sunburn at AllCare involves a comprehensive approach to ensure accurate assessment and effective treatment. Some steps are:

Schedule an Appointment: Contact AllCare or schedule an appointment online with one of our experienced doctors to discuss your sunburn symptoms and concerns.
Symptom Review: Discussing your symptoms, including the duration and intensity of pain, will help the healthcare provider determine the extent of the sunburn and the appropriate course of action.
Patient History: Your provider may ask about your recent sun exposure, including how long you were outdoors, the time of day, and whether you used any sun protection measures.
Physical Examination: We will examine the affected skin to assess the severity of the sunburn. We will look for signs such as redness, swelling, blisters, and peeling.

Sunburn Treatments at AllCare

At AllCare, we offer a range of treatments to manage sunburn symptoms and promote healing. The course of treatment chosen will depend on the severity of skin damage. Here’s an overview of the treatment options available:

Sunburn Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are often the first line of defense for sunburn, providing direct relief to the affected area. These treatments include moisturizers like aloe vera and other soothing lotions that help keep the skin hydrated and reduce peeling. Antiseptic creams are used to prevent infection in cases where blisters have formed and broken.

Oral Medications

For more severe sunburns, oral medications may be necessary to control symptoms and prevent complications. Pain relievers, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, help reduce pain and inflammation. Antihistamines can also be beneficial in managing itching and swelling associated with sunburn.

Hydration

Proper hydration is crucial for sunburn recovery. Drinking plenty of fluids helps replenish lost moisture and supports the healing process. Keeping the body well-hydrated aids in maintaining skin health and can expedite the recovery from sunburn.

Education

Sunburn education is essential for preventing skin damage and reducing long-term health risks. Your physician will talk with you about the dangers of UV radiation, the importance of proper sun protection methods, and how to recognize early signs of sunburn. They may provide tips on times to avoid being outside and future at-home management.

Online Doctor Visits and Telehealth Services

Experience the convenience of telehealth appointments at AllCare. Our telemedicine services are designed to provide you with seamless access to healthcare without the need to leave your home. Whether you need an online doctor’s appointment for immediate or primary care, AllCare’s got you covered. With our online telehealth services currently available to individuals located in Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Georgia, you can connect with our experienced urgent and primary care physicians via secure video calls.

At AllCare, we are expanding our virtual healthcare access to all services previously offered in person. This includes:

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How to Prevent Sunburn

Even a single severe sunburn can significantly increase one’s lifetime risk of skin cancer, so preventing sunburn is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Some of the primary measures include:

Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, pants, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin from UV radiation.
Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak UV radiation hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Stay Informed: Check the UV index in your area to gauge the risk of sun exposure and plan your outdoor activities accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (Sunburn FAQs)

01 How long does it take for sunburn to go away?

The time for sunburn healing varies depending on the severity. Mild sunburns typically resolve within three to five days, with gradual reduction in redness and discomfort. Moderate sunburns, which involve more intense redness, swelling, and pain, may take up to a week or longer to completely heal. Severe sunburns, characterized by blistering and peeling, can take two weeks or more to fully recover. Proper care, hydration, and avoiding further sun exposure can aid in the healing process

02 How can I treat a bad sunburn at home?

Treating a severe sunburn involves several steps to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications. Applying cool, damp cloths to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day, or taking cool baths or showers, can provide relief. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps the skin recover.

Moisturizers, such as aloe vera and alcohol-free lotions, help keep the skin hydrated and reduce peeling. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen also can reduce pain and inflammation. If blisters form, do not pop them; instead, cover them lightly with a sterile bandage to prevent infection. Wearing loose, soft clothing can avoid irritating the sunburned skin.

Note: If your sunburn isn’t getting better after at home treatments, visit an AllCare clinic for more effective treatments. If you have a severe sunburn with extensive blistering, intense pain, or systemic symptoms such as persistent fever, vomiting, or low blood pressure, visit the closest ER facility for further evaluation and treatment.

03 Can sunburn cause fever?

Yes, severe sunburn can cause fever. When the skin is extensively damaged by UV radiation, it can trigger an inflammatory response that affects the entire body. This inflammation is caused by DNA damage, release of cytokines which provide inflammatory relief, and increased blood flow. If you experience a fever along with severe sunburn, it is important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention to prevent further complications.

04 When do you refer someone to a specialist for sunburn?

In severe cases, such as those involving extensive blistering, dehydration, or systemic symptoms like fever, headache, and vomiting, we may refer patients to a specialist or an emergency room for further care. Additionally, patients who develop sun spots or lesions alongside the sunburn will be referred to a dermatologist.

05 Is telemedicine available for sunburn treatment?

Yes, AllCare offers telemedicine services for sunburn consultations. While in-person evaluations are ideal for assessing skin conditions, telemedicine allows for convenient discussions about symptoms and treatment plans. If you have a mild to moderate sunburn that isn’t getting better with at-home treatments, this is a good option.

STATES WHERE WE SERVE PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE

Sunburn Treatment in Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and urgent care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Georgia. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tier sunburn treatment in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.

VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

WASHINGTON DC

GEORGIA

Prioritize your health today: schedule your sunburn treatment appointment

Q: How to Prevent Sunburn

Preventing sunburn involves using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wearing protective clothing like hats and sunglasses, seeking shade during peak UV hours, and staying informed by checking the UV index in your area. These measures help minimize skin damage and lower your risk of skin cancer.

Q: How long does it take for sunburn to go away?

The healing time for sunburn varies depending on severity. Mild sunburns typically heal within 3-5 days, moderate sunburns may take up to a week or more, and severe sunburns with blistering can take two weeks or longer. Proper care, hydration, and avoiding further sun exposure aid the healing process.

Q: How can I treat a bad sunburn at home?

To treat a bad sunburn at home, apply cool, damp cloths or take cool baths to soothe the skin. Stay hydrated, use moisturizers like aloe vera to reduce peeling, and take over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid popping blisters and wear loose clothing. If symptoms persist, consult an AllCare clinic or visit the ER for severe cases.

Q: Can sunburn cause fever?

Yes, severe sunburn can cause fever due to the body's inflammatory response to skin damage from UV radiation. If fever occurs, stay hydrated and seek medical attention to prevent complications.

Q: When do you refer someone to a specialist for sunburn?

Patients with severe cases, such as extensive blistering, dehydration, or systemic symptoms like fever and vomiting, may be referred to a specialist or emergency care. Patients with sun spots or lesions may be referred to a dermatologist for further evaluation.

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