Differential Diagnosis for Nausea when Exposed to the Sun

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Heat exhaustion or heat-related illness: This is a common condition that occurs when the body is unable to cool itself properly, often due to excessive heat and humidity. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness, which can be exacerbated by sun exposure.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Migraine: Some people experience migraines triggered by sunlight, which can include symptoms of nausea, sensitivity to light, and headaches.
  • Vasovagal syncope: Also known as a fainting spell, this condition can be triggered by various factors, including heat and sun exposure, leading to nausea, dizziness, and potentially fainting.
  • Motion sickness: Although not directly related to sun exposure, individuals who experience motion sickness might feel nauseous when in the sun, especially if they are in a vehicle or boat.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Meningitis: Although rare, meningitis is a serious condition that can present with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if accompanied by fever, headache, and stiff neck.
  • Porphyria: A group of rare disorders that can cause sensitivity to sunlight, leading to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, among other symptoms.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Solar urticaria: A rare condition characterized by an allergic reaction to sunlight, which can cause nausea, hives, and itching.
  • Pellagra: A disease caused by niacin deficiency, which can lead to dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and potentially death if left untreated. Sun exposure can exacerbate symptoms, including nausea.