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Allergy to the sun is caused by the skin being exposed to sunlight. Red spots seen on the skin, blisters, itching, fever, and chills are a sign that you are allergic to the sun. Antihistamines are the most commonly used treatments for sun allergy, and avoid exposure to sunlight. Both UVA and UVB rays are responsible for the development of allergy to the sun.
Sun allergy – causes
An allergy to the sun is not much different from any other allergic reaction in the body. The causes of sun allergy are not fully researched and defined. The body’s response to sunlight is to create local inflammation of the skin.
Allergy to the sun is more common in people with fair skin and in women. There are two types of sun allergy – one that occurs on its own, immediately after exposure to the sun, and one that manifests itself after using certain substances before exposure to sunlight. Photosensitizing substances that can cause allergy to the sun include preparations for combating acne, St. John’s wort, musk and sulfa drugs.
Symptoms of allergy to the sun
One of the most characteristic symptoms of sun allergy is the appearance of red spots and blisters on the skin that resemble the popular ‘hives’. A rash is also a common symptom of sun allergy. Those affected by sun allergy experience itching that disappears after a few hours. Skin changes are present for up to two weeks and are not painful. Symptoms of sun allergy are also chills and fever. The exposed parts of the skin are exposed areas. Sensitization to the sun, unlike sunburn, is gradual and never occurs during the first sunbathing.
Treatment of sun allergy
As mentioned above, the treatment of sun allergy consists in the use of antihistamines. Antimalarial drugs and beta-carotene also work well. Remember to properly moisturize and lubricate the skin with creams. Therapies designed to desensitize to light are new on the market and are performed in dermatological centers.
Allergy to the sun in a child
The symptoms of sun allergy are felt most acutely by children. During sunny days, you must remember about frequent application of creams with the highest filters intended for children. They should be applied in thick layers. To avoid allergy to the sun, the entire surface of the child’s body should be smeared, including the one under the bathing suit or trunks. It is worth ensuring that children play outdoors in the summer, mainly in the shade, and must wear a hat.
Sun allergy – prophylaxis
As with any type of allergy, the main preventive measure is simply to avoid the allergen – in this case the sun. Remember to cover as much of the body as possible (airy clothes made of natural cotton work best) and use protective creams with high UV filters.
If you are allergic to the sun, it is necessary to visit a dermatologist who will correctly diagnose the cause of the allergy and prescribe appropriate medications. Contraindications to exposure to solar radiation definitely concern people suffering from vitiligo, lupus erythematosus, photodermatosis and metabolic diseases. Due to the risk of melanoma, any skin changes should be immediately reported and shown to a dermatologist, especially irregular ones that change their color or shape.
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