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I don't seem to be able to tolerate sunlight very


Sent to Health Experts March 27, 2006 11:30 p.m.

I don't seem to be able to tolerate sunlight very well. I've read about some extreme cases dealing with diseases in which the body cannot process normal sunlight-caused chemicals, but I do not have such an extreme reaction.

I have always burned very easily. Even with sunblock, I don't need more than ten to twenty minutes in direct sunlight to develop a burn. I am not unusually pale, but even a few minutes in strong sunlight will cause a burning sensation in my exposed skin.

When I burn, I do no blister or peel excessively. When the redness of the burn fades, the skin is not tanned, but exactly the same color that it was previously.

After direct exposure, I feel tired and fatigued, in much the same way as when I'm fighting off a cold.

I have learned to wear dark clothing with a minimal amount of exposed skin, and a hat for the part line in my hair. This becomes rather uncomfortable during the summer, as I tend to get hot (but there is also more sunlight, so it is necessary.)

Is it possible to be allergic to sunlight in a way not as extreme as the cases I've read about (which tended to involve blisters, cancer, etc)?

Optional Information:
Female , Age: 18

Already Tried:
avoidance
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Answer
March 28, 2006 12:42 a.m. (1 hour and 11 minutes later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

Yes it is possible.
It is also called photdermatitis.

Allergic sun reactions occur after sun exposure, or exposure to certain topicals.

Th mild forms resemble sunburn: red, itchy, hot, in patches with dry patches.

Blisters usually occur only in severe cases

There are three types:

Phototoxic: the effect of UV rays or taking chemicals or substances that make skinsensitive to UV light.

Photoallergic -- effects when people taking certain chemicals or medications are exposed to sunlight.

Polymorphus light eruptions causes a red rash, Hives, and blisters with sunlight exposure.

You should see a Doctor (Dermatologist) who will take a hisory of symptoms, sun exposure, illnesses, medications/topical creams
lifestyle and family history, and examine the skin.

Tests may include:
exposing skin to UV light
patch testing: applying the suspected agents or chemicals to the back for 48 hrs. The patch is taken off and skin reaction is followed for one week.

Treatments include:

Avoiding direct sunlight
Avoid medications or topical creams that cause the problems, or aggravate sensitivity.
Wear hats, long sleeves, and use sunscreen (against UVA and UVB) when in sunlight.
Use zinc oxide or sunscreen at least with SPF >15

For Sunburn/reaction:
Cold water or ice compresses (towel) as needed
Aloe vera lotions have soothing effects
Tylenol or aspirin for pain
Corticosteroid creams (Betametasone 0.1%) can ease the pain, redness, and itching.
Prednisone pills can be given for severe reactions

Sorry I couldn't get you out of the hats and long sleeves. The uva/uvb sunscreen may be enough for short periods.

I hope this helps. Best of luck.

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I hope my information is helpful. If you have more questions, just ask! I will gladly help, otherwise please click "accept".
Positive feedback and any bonus would be appreciated. Thank you, Christy
PictureChristy Hammond  -- Bachelor of Science in Nursing -- 100% Positive Feedback on 878 Health Accepts
I am self employed doing medical research for patients on their conditions and treatment options.

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