Sunburn, Heat Illness and Dehydration in Brazil
Rio Med Care provides consultations in English, by secure video, throughout Brazil. This page is general information and does not replace an individual medical evaluation.
Ultraviolet levels in Brazil are high throughout the year, and visitors regularly underestimate them during a first day at the beach. Combined with heat and humidity, this leads to severe sunburn, heat exhaustion and dehydration.
A consultation helps you manage the burn or heat illness properly, avoid complications such as infection, and recognise the point at which the situation becomes a medical emergency.
Common symptoms
- Red, painful, hot skin with or without blistering
- Headache, dizziness, nausea after sun exposure
- Heavy sweating followed by weakness or muscle cramps
- Dark urine, intense thirst, dry mouth
- Chills or feeling feverish after a long day outdoors
When to seek medical care urgently
- Confusion, fainting or seizures
- Hot dry skin with the absence of sweating and a very high temperature — suspected heat stroke, an emergency (192)
- Extensive blistering, or blistering over the face
- Signs of skin infection: increasing pain, pus, spreading redness
- No urine output for many hours
In an emergency in Brazil, call 192 (SAMU) or go to the nearest emergency department. Telemedicine is not appropriate for severe or rapidly evolving conditions.
What the consultation includes
- Assessment of the burn's extent and depth, and of your hydration status.
- Practical wound care, pain relief and rehydration guidance.
- Advice on realistic sun protection for the Brazilian climate.
- Medication or in-person care when clinically indicated after the evaluation.
Prescriptions and medical certificates are issued only when clinically indicated after a live medical evaluation. Rio Med Care does not sell or deliver medications.
Frequently asked questions
When does sunburn need a doctor?
When there is extensive blistering, fever, confusion, or signs of infection. A consultation can also simply confirm that home care is sufficient.
Is heat exhaustion serious?
It can progress to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. Early recognition and cooling matter, and the consultation covers exactly what to watch for.
Can I be seen from the beach city I am visiting?
Yes. Online consultations cover all of Brazil.
Book a consultation in English
Online consultation US$ 50 (available throughout Brazil). Appointments daily, 07:00–22:00 BRT.