Solar Urticaria - Signs and Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

Generally, the areas affected are exposed skin not usually protected by clothing; however it can also occur in areas covered by clothing. The areas constantly subjected to the sun's rays may only be slightly affected if at all. Parts of the body only thinly covered can potentially be subjected to an outbreak.

Life with SU can be difficult. Patients are subject to constant itching and pain as within minutes of the initial exposure to UV radiation, a rash will appear. The urticarial reaction begins in the form of pruritus, later progressing to erythema and edema in the exposed areas of the skin. If vast areas of the body are affected, the loss of fluid into the skin could lead to light-headedness, headache, nausea and vomiting. Rarely, patients have been reported to experience bronchospasm. Also, if a large area of the body is suddenly exposed, the person may be subject to an anaphylactic reaction. Once free of exposure, the rash will fade away within several hours.