Summertime is right around the corner, meaning more time outdoors and more time in the sun. While moderate sun exposure can be enjoyable and beneficial for your health, it’s important to remember that the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are invisible, and overexposure can lead to serious harm. In some cases, severe sunburn may even require a visit to the emergency room.

Understanding Sunburn

Sunburns are incredibly common, especially during the summer when people spend extended hours outside. Roughly one-third of adults report experiencing sunburn every year. A sunburn is your skin’s inflammatory reaction to excessive UV exposure, whether from natural sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds. Most sunburns present with mild symptoms such as:

• Redness
• Warmth or heat to touch
• Itching, stinging, or peeling skin

Many people believe that simply wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen or long-sleeved clothing offers full protection—but in reality, sun protection isn’t always completely reliable, especially if sunscreen isn’t reapplied or if you’re exposed for long periods.

While some cases of sunburn can be healed on their own, more severe cases can quickly escalate into a medical concern.

When to Go to the ER for a Sunburn

It’s important to recognize when sunburn is more than just a minor inconvenience. Severe sunburn, especially when accompanied by persisting symptoms, requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, serious sunburn can lead to complications.

Seek emergency care if your sunburn is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Large or widespread blistering
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or confusion
• High fever and chills
• Severe pain
• Swelling and intense redness
• Signs of skin infection, like pus, increased pain, or spreading redness

Potential Complications of Severe Sunburn

Ignoring the signs of a serious sunburn can lead to complications such as:

1. Bacterial infection
2. Permanent skin damage
3. Premature skin aging
4. Increased risk of skin cancer

It’s easy to dismiss a bad sunburn as a temporary concern, but it can become a medical emergency if not treated promptly.

24/7 Emergency Care – All Summer Long

If you’re experiencing symptoms of severe sunburn, NW Indiana ER & Hospital is here for you —24/7/365. Our dedicated medical team offers comprehensive care for sunburn and other heat-related illnesses, including IV fluids, pain management, and more.

We’re committed to helping you and your loved ones recover quickly and get back to the summer fun.

Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, NW Indiana ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.