Posted on February 24, 2008 in Latest News
Sounds a bit queer, isn’t it? But everyone is susceptible to skin problems caused by the UV rays from the sun. That’s why every dermatologist asks you to slather on a sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 whenever you go out. This would lower your chances of getting an itchy bumpy rash called Sun Poisoning.
Sun Poisoning is an allergic reaction to the sun. It occurs when the skin gets exposed to the sunlight for the first time at the onset of spring. Sun Allergy is different from Sun Burn. People with light skin are most susceptible to sunburn. While sun allergy can affect people of all skin colors.
Causes
Sun Allergy is basically caused because of the skin reactions that have nothing to do with the external factors. These are basically the intrinsic type of photodermatosis. This results in the development of skin rashes after being exposed to the UVB or UVA rayes of the sun. The polymorphous light eruption is seen as the most common manifestation of Photodermatosis. This is mainly a result of an abnormal immune system reaction to the sun, as with all other allergies. The Polymorphous light eruption could be commonly seen in about 10-20% of healthy people. This means it is a fairly common condition in people.
Symptoms
Reactions develop within a few hours of sun exposure. They would develop itchy, red bumps and blisters at the site of exposure to the sun. This rash resembles to the itchy rash that results from insect bites or hives. Some people do not show any symptoms at all. If untreated, this reaction lasts usually for two weeks. Then it mostly goes away all by itself.
Treatment
The first most common advice given to the patients suffering from Sun Allergy is to stay indoors and avoid exposing yourself to sun again. They are also advised to wear protective clothes and use a sunscreen. Topical corticosteroids are used to treat the rash. Allergy shots or Immunotherapy is also said to be very beneficial for Allergic reactions. Doctors also prescribe a medication called Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine). It is works well for polymorphous light eruption.
Prevention
It is difficult but the foremost thing that could prevent you from skin allergy is staying indoors and avoiding exposure to the sun. Second, use photo-protective measures like an use an umbrella, wear a long sleeved shirts, application of a broad spectrum sunscreen that has UVB and UVA blockers.
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