Mental health medications play a vital role in helping many people feel their best. However, some medications come with lesser-known side effects. If you’re taking antidepressants to support your mental health, you may be surprised to learn that some can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Whether gardening, walking your dog, at a backyard BBQ or in the pool, it’s important to understand how your medication may affect your body’s response to heat and sunlight. We’re here to explain the signs and symptoms and ways to seek help so you can safely enjoy your time outside.
Symptoms of Heat Intolerance and Sun Sensitivity
People with sun sensitivity, also called photosensitivity, can experience unexpected sunburns or skin irritations, even with limited sun exposure. Other symptoms may include nausea, dizziness or headaches following sun exposure.
Another side effect of certain antidepressants is heat intolerance. This condition can affect your body’s ability to regulate its temperature and cause high fever, excessive or impaired sweating, fatigue and nausea.
Antidepressants That Can Cause Sensitivity to Heat and Sunlight
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, certain mental health medications can lead to increased heat intolerance and sun sensitivity. This list includes a number of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including, but not limited to:
- Citalopram (Celexa)
- Escitalopram (Lexapro)
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
Certain selective serotonin and norepinephrine inhibitors (SNRIs) such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor) can also cause similar sensitivity symptoms.
Preventing Symptoms of Heat or Sun Sensitivity
First and foremost, it’s important to avoid abruptly stopping your antidepressant medications without having a plan in place, as withdrawal side effects can lead to further issues.
If you live in an area with extreme heat or are planning a vacation to a hotter area, there are a few steps you can take to be proactive and reduce your risk of side effects:
- Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise and take frequent breaks
- Drink plenty of fluids when you’re outdoors, especially on hot days, to prevent dehydration
- Limit your time in direct sunlight whenever possible
- Stay cool by using a cold compress or a handheld fan
- Talk to your doctor about potential dose or frequency adjustments to your medications
- Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing when outside
Additionally, if you’re taking any other over-the-counter or prescription medications in addition to your antidepressant, be sure to keep your doctor informed, as other medications can increase the side effects that you may experience.
Our sun safety tips can help you avoid potentially serious situations, such as sunburn, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
When to Seek Help
A minor sunburn or rash caused by heat sensitivity can usually be treated at home by applying moisturizer, cooling your skin and drinking plenty of water. However, more serious situations, such as major burns, high fever or impaired sweating can require prompt medical attention.
Your local AdventHealth Centra Care urgent care center is equipped to treat mild to moderate heat and sun sensitivity symptoms, including sunburn, rash, headache or nausea. For more severe symptoms, seek help immediately at your nearest AdventHealth ER.
We’re Here When You Need Us
If you’re experiencing unusual heat or sun sensitivity while taking an antidepressant, it’s important not to ignore the signs. Our urgent care experts at AdventHealth Centra Care are here to help you stay safe and feel better fast. Learn more about our walk-in urgent care services, scheduling an AdventHealth Centra Care appointment, and our convenient video visits so you can get the care you need.
