Can sunburn cause fever?

Can Sunburn Cause Fever?

Yes, severe sunburn can cause fever as part of a systemic inflammatory response, particularly when it affects a large body surface area. This condition, sometimes called "sun poisoning," occurs when the body mounts an inflammatory response to extensive UV damage to the skin.

Sunburn and Systemic Symptoms

Sunburn occurs when skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, causing damage to skin cells. While mild sunburn typically presents with localized symptoms, more severe cases can trigger systemic effects:

Severity Spectrum of Sunburn

• Mild sunburn: Redness, pain, warmth to touch
• Moderate sunburn: More intense redness, pain, swelling
• Severe sunburn ("sun poisoning"): Blistering, extensive skin damage, AND systemic symptoms including:
  • Fever (temperature >100.4°F/38°C)
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Dehydration

Pathophysiology

The fever associated with sunburn results from the body's inflammatory response to extensive UV damage:

1. UV radiation damages skin cell DNA and cellular structures
2. Damaged cells release inflammatory mediators (cytokines, prostaglandins)
3. These mediators enter circulation and can trigger systemic effects
4. The hypothalamus may reset the body's temperature setpoint, resulting in fever

Risk Factors for Developing Sunburn with Fever

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing fever with sunburn 1:

• Large body surface area affected by sunburn
• Fair skin (phototypes I and II)
• Young age (children and adolescents)
• Lack of sun protection (no sunscreen, protective clothing)
• Sun exposure during peak UV hours (10am-4pm)
• High-altitude or equatorial locations
• Reflective surfaces (water, sand, snow)
• Certain medications that increase photosensitivity

Management of Sunburn with Fever

For sunburn accompanied by fever, treatment focuses on:

Immediate Care

• Cool compresses to affected areas
• Moisturizers or aloe vera gel for skin relief
• Adequate hydration (oral fluids)
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs like ibuprofen) to reduce inflammation, pain, and fever
• Over-the-counter pain relievers

When to Seek Medical Attention

Medical care should be sought if:

• Fever exceeds 102°F (38.9°C)
• Sunburn covers >15% of body surface area
• Severe blistering is present
• Symptoms of dehydration develop
• Confusion or altered mental status occurs
• Symptoms worsen despite home treatment

Prevention

The best approach to preventing sunburn-associated fever is preventing sunburn itself 1:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) 15-30 minutes before sun exposure
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating
• Avoid sun exposure during peak UV hours (10am-4pm)
• Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses
• Seek shade when outdoors
• Be especially vigilant with children and adolescents, who receive more than half of their lifetime UV exposure during these years

Special Considerations

• Medication interactions: Some medications (antibiotics, retinoids, certain chemotherapeutics) can increase photosensitivity and risk of severe sunburn 2
• Underlying conditions: People with certain autoimmune conditions may be more susceptible to severe sunburn reactions
• Previous sunburn history: Having had severe sunburn previously may increase risk for subsequent episodes

Remember that while fever from sunburn typically resolves within 24-48 hours with appropriate care, it represents a significant inflammatory response that should be prevented through proper sun protection practices.