Photosensitivity
Photosensitivity
Exposure to UV rays
can also lead to skin damage and is a risk factor for skin cancer. People who
are photosensitive may develop skin rashes or burns, even after only limited
exposure to the sun.
Two different types
of photosensitive reactions are seen phototoxic and photoallergic.
Phototoxic
Phototoxic reactions
are caused when a new chemical in your body interacts with UV rays from the
sun. Some medications like doxycycline tetracycline and Gemifloxacin,Gatifloxacin
for example, are the most common cause
of this type of reaction.The result is a skin rash that looks like a severe
sunburn, which usually develops within 24 hours of exposure to the sun.
Photoallergic
Photoallergic reactions
develop as a side effect of some medications. They can also arise from
chemicals found in beauty products and sunscreen.
These types of
reactions to the sun tend to take a few days for a rash to develop after sun
exposure.
Symptoms of
photosensitivity vary from mild to severe. The most common symptom is an
exaggerated skin rash or sunburn. Rashes may or may not cause itching. In some cases, a sunburn can be so severe that blistering develops. Weeping of skin and peeling can also
occur in severe cases.
The amount of sun
exposure required for a reaction varies greatly. For some people, very little
sun exposure can cause a rash or burn, while for others, prolonged exposure
will bring about a reaction.
Photosensitivity is
a common side effect of few medications, including:
- Antibiotics
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Diuretics
Some medical
conditions which cause photosensitivity include:
Lupus erythematous
Lupus is
a connective tissue disease. Red patches, lumps, and purple spots can develop
on areas of your skin exposed to the sun.
Polymorphous light
eruption
People with this condition can develop an itchy rash when
they are exposed to the sun. As sun exposure continues and UV tolerance
increases, symptoms generally appear less often. Women are two to three times more likely than
men to develop this condition.
Actinic prurigo
People with this
condition may develop red bumps after sun exposure, which can turn into scaly
patches. This disorder can occur round the year, even in winter when sun
exposure is less likely.
How is
photosensitivity diagnosed
The doctor will need
a complete medical history and the medications one is currently taking to make
a proper diagnosis. Examination of rash,
patterns of rashes in relation to your sun exposure. In some cases, skin biopsy
and blood work may be needed.
Treatment and
prevention
When a skin reaction
has already developed, treatments may reduce discomfort and skin inflammation.
Over-the-counter pain medications can relieve pain and corticosteroid cream is
prescribed to decrease inflammation.
The chemicals which cause
photosensitivity should be avoided. The best way to prevent symptoms of
photosensitivity is to limit the amount of time you spend in the sun. People
who are photosensitive should always use sunscreen when outside with sun
protective factor (SPF)greater than 50.
Covering and
protecting your skin may also help prevent a reaction. People who are
photosensitive can reduce symptoms by wearing hats, sunglasses, and shirts with
long sleeves when outside.
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