10 Ways to Protect Yourself from the Sun's Rays

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10 Ways to Protect Yourself from the Sun's Rays

Summertime, and the living is, well a time to be careful if you are a person with lupus. Between 40-60% of persons with SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), are photosensitive. The ultraviolet radiation from the sun's rays seems to react with our skin. This reaction can start an immune response that may lead to other problems. You don't need me to tell you how important it is to avoid triggering a flare when it comes to lupus. There are several potential complications of UV exposure:

A butterfly, or malar rash across the bridge of the nose Joint pain Chest pain Fatigue Fever Flare

Keep in mind the risk factors for sun sensitivity:

Skin Type and Color Amount of time exposed Time of day exposed Altitude Nearness to the equator Closeness to reflective surfaces, such as snow, and the sidewalk Taking medications that increase sun sensitivity Here are some tips to let you have fun in the sun, and avoid having to regret it later! Some hints apply to reducing UV radiation indoors also.

Fair haired, light skinned persons are at most risk from the sun, but black and brown-skinned persons are still at risk. In the US, African-American women are much more likely to develop lupus than other women. Remember to cover up on cloudy days, and in your car. The UV rays can still reach you through a window, through the water, or through the clouds. Time your outdoor activities to avoid the strongest rays. That means, take your lunch in the shade! The hours to avoid are between 10 am and 4 pm. Avoid tanning beds, no matter what the hype. After all, isn't that what the new self-tanning lotions are for? Ask your pharmacists if you are on medications that increase your sensitivity to Ultra Violet light. These can include:

acne medications tranquilizers diuretics oral antibiotics NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

Use Sunscreens properly. Always apply them 30 minutes before you go out in the sun, to give them a chance to react with your skin. Reapply often, especially if you are very active, or perspiring. Don't overlook those easy-to-forget places such as the back of your knees, the tops of your feet, and your neck and throat. How much sunscreen is enough? The recommendation for sun sensitive individuals is to wear at least one with an SPF of 30. Sun blocks are also available that block 100% of the sun. And you wondered why the lifeguard's nose was white! Sometimes sunscreen is not enough. Wear sun-protective clothing which covers your legs, arms, and head. These clothes are made from tightly woven fabrics. Keep track of the time. It's easy to forget that it's time to re-apply sunscreen, or just time to come inside. When you're having fun. . . If you should develop a rash or any of the other problems mentioned call your doctor, before the symptoms progress.

Much Love,

Deanna

~ ~LUPUS Serenity Prayer~~

Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to hide the bodies of doctors I shot when they said, "You're perfectly healthy, it's all in your head"