Not all types of porphyria are the same. Some porphyrias present with a sensitive skin, which is easily damaged even with the slightest knock. These skin injuries do not easily heal. Sunlight may cause a damaging effect and result in blistering, scarring, and darkening of the skin. Other types of porphyria present with abdominal pain or cramps, constipation, rapid heart beat, nausea, or vomiting, or may present with anxiety or disturbed behavior.
Some cases go on to weakness, paralysis and death.
Fortunately, a fatal outcome is rare. It is not uncommon for porphyrics to experience mild attacks with a feeling of being generally unwell with stomach pain and some nausea. Attacks may be brought on by sunlight, numerous drugs including the birth control pill, exposure to some chemicals, alcohol, exhaustion, and severe dieting. Avoiding these precipitating factors are very important to those having inherited porphyria. Treatment depends greatly on the type of porphyria and can be quite successful.