What are the symptoms of sun sensitivity (photosensitivity)?
Symptoms of phototoxic reaction Individuals with phototoxic reactions may initially complain of a burning and stinging sensation. Then the redness typically occurs within 24 hours of the exposure to sun in the exposed areas of the body such as the forehead, nose, hands, arms, and lips. In severe cases, the sun protected areas of skin may be also be involved. The range of skin damage may vary from mild redness to swelling to blister formation (bullae) in more severe cases. The skin changes usually resolve with sloughing off (desquamation) of the affected area within several days. Symptoms of photoallergic reactions Individuals with photoallergic reactions may initially complain of itching (pruritus). This is then followed by redness and possibly swelling and eruption of the involved area. Because this is considered an allergic reaction, there may be no symptoms for many days when the drug is taken for the first time. Subsequent exposure to the drug and the sun may cause a more rapid res
