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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Ripon, WI

I usually am careful about getting sunburned but I forgot my sunscreen and spent the day out side and burned my fbg numbers were higher than usual in the morning. I ate as usual and drank a lot of water so that shouldn’t have been a problem.

July 20, 2025
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DiabetesTeam

Yes, sunburn can cause blood sugar levels to rise. This happens because sunburn is a form of physical stress on your body. When your body experiences any type of stress or injury, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause blood glucose levels to increase. When your body is under physical Show Full Answer

Yes, sunburn can cause blood sugar levels to rise. This happens because sunburn is a form of physical stress on your body. When your body experiences any type of stress or injury, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause blood glucose levels to increase. When your body is under physical stress (like fighting a sunburn), it triggers your body's natural defense mechanisms. Your liver may release more glucose into your bloodstream as part of this stress response, making it harder to maintain normal blood sugar levels even if you're following your usual diet and hydration routine. To help manage blood sugar during a sunburn:
- Continue monitoring your blood glucose levels closely
- Stay well-hydrated
- Follow your usual medication schedule
- Contact your healthcare provider if blood sugar remains consistently high
- And of course, prevent future episodes by using sunscreen and protective clothing

July 20, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Yes. It most definitely can raise bs numbers. It is a stressor as Hkc mentioned. Hope it feels better soon.

July 20, 2025 (edited)
A DiabetesTeam Member

I got a sunburn yesterday & my blood sugar numbers are okay today, but I’ve been putting aloe on it since last night. Hope you’re feeling okay 💚

July 20, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Also as you know if you were in the garden in the sun for several hours maybe you were a tad dehydrated. Hope your better today.

July 21, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Well that’s another good reason for sunscreen😁 I’ve got a slight redness before but no affect on blood sugar, but while it doesn’t really hurt I look like a bright red tomato. I have a tan from working out in the garden so maybe that’s why it isn’t painful but just a tight feeling on my skin. I used lots of moisturizer and sunscreen today, 70 spf.

July 20, 2025

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