Sun allergies are pretty common, but that doesn’t mean you can’t manage them. They’re uncomfortable and may make you look like a lobster, but allergies to the sun aren’t life-threatening, so don’t let them stop you from going out and enjoying the weather when it’s nice! If you’re dealing with recurring sun allergies, read this guide to learn about five common symptoms of sun allergies and how to avoid an allergic reaction in the future.

1) Shortness of Breath

When you have a sun allergy, your body overreacts to sunlight exposure by producing histamines. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath. Shortness of breath is caused by the narrowing of your airways, which can make it difficult to breathe. Histamines can also cause other respiratory problems, such as wheezing and coughing. If you’re having difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

2) Muscle Cramps

If you’ve ever been out in the sun for too long, you know how painful a sunburn can be. But for some people, even a few minutes in the sun can cause an allergic reaction.

If you start experiencing muscle cramps, especially in your legs and feet, then you may be experiencing a sun allergy. When you’re exposed to sunlight, some people’s bodies react with an inflammatory response which can trigger painful symptoms. These reactions are typically triggered by contact with chemicals that are found in sunscreens and other skin care products or it could be caused by medications that contain ingredients that can trigger a reaction. If you’ve never experienced these reactions before, it’s best to avoid spending time in direct sunlight until you’ve been evaluated by a dermatologist or allergist. After an evaluation, they may recommend discontinuing using certain medications or using alternative treatments like prescription strength antihistamines or steroid creams which can treat your symptoms without having to limit your exposure to sunlight.

3) Acne

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting millions of people of all ages. Though it’s often associated with adolescence, acne can occur at any age. While acne is not usually a serious health condition, it can cause physical and emotional scarring.

There are many different types of acne, but the most common form is acne vulgaris, which includes blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with sebum, an oily substance produced by the body. The clogged follicle may then become infected with bacteria, leading to inflammation.

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of acne, including genetics, hormone changes, diet, and certain medications.

4) Hives

If you develop hives after being in the sun, it’s likely you’re experiencing a sun allergy. Hives are raised, itchy welts that can appear on any part of your body. They’re often accompanied by swelling and can be very uncomfortable. If you have hives, you’ll want to avoid further sun exposure and seek medical attention.

5) Swelling

Swelling is one of the most common sun allergy symptoms. It usually starts within minutes of exposure to the sun and can last for a few hours. The affected area may feel warm to the touch and look red or blotchy. In severe cases, swelling can be accompanied by hives or blisters. If you notice any swelling after being in the sun, try to cool down the affected area and seek medical attention if necessary.

While swelling is one of the most common symptoms, it’s also an indicator that your body’s immune system is overreacting to something. It can be difficult to determine whether you’re having a severe reaction or an allergic reaction, but any signs of swelling, even if it’s just slight and temporary, may be cause for concern.