Allergic rash in the sun. Sun allergy treatment at home. Local manifestations include

Summer is a great time of year. Most of us go on vacation to the warm sea. Others prefer to relax in the country, far from the polluted and noisy city. But there are those for whom bright sun is contraindicated. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to relax in its rays. The number of those who suffer from such a disease as photodermatitis is growing. This disease is popularly called sun allergy.

This disease can manifest itself if you are under the scorching rays for just a few seconds, or it can appear on the second or third day. This reaction of the body occurs in 20% of the population of our planet.

Can you be allergic to the sun?

Modern medicine classifies all manifestations of increased sensitivity of the body to sunlight as such a disease. But recent studies have shown that these problems are not associated with a person’s exposure to the scorching rays of the sun. This is just one of the factors that provokes such a specific allergy. Most often, this problem is associated with malfunctions of internal organs.

Symptoms of sun allergy

The most important signs of this disease are changes in the appearance of the skin. Its symptoms are:

• Itching, pain and swelling
• Severe redness of the skin
• The appearance of microcracks with bleeding
• Skin peeling, scale formation
• Hives
• The appearance of blisters

Moreover, signs of an allergy to the sun can appear instantly or after 2-3 days. When allergens enter the bloodstream, the following may occur:

• temperature increase
• dizziness

In rare situations, when blood pressure decreases due to allergen entering the bloodstream, fainting may occur.

Why does sun allergy occur?

• As mentioned above, ultraviolet radiation itself does not cause allergies. Most likely, it is a catalyst for problems associated with disruption of the internal organs and protective systems of the body.
• Allergens cannot be exposed to sunlight. But, they can trigger negative processes in the body that will create the problem described in this article
• Against the background of sunlight, “protection” from chlorinated water, taking certain medications, and eating foods containing allergens may turn on. For example, grapefruits or tangerines. Under normal conditions, eating them does not cause such reactions, but when exposed to sunlight they can develop.

A large dose of ultraviolet radiation that falls on a person susceptible to such a problem forces the body to work for wear and tear. Its defense mechanisms must activate the production of melanin. Which manifests itself in the load on the kidneys and liver.

Some cosmetics, especially creams and lipsticks, may contain substances that are destroyed when exposed to ultraviolet radiation. The breakdown products of such products can negatively affect the functioning of the body and cause the development of photodermatosis.

Types of sun allergies

In medical practice, it is customary to divide the body’s reaction to the sun into three categories:

• Phototraumatic reaction. This reaction can occur in anyone, even the healthiest person. As a rule, it manifests itself as redness and a slight burning sensation on the skin of the face, décolleté and other areas that have received too much ultraviolet radiation.
• Phototoxic reaction. This type of reaction occurs in people with sensitive skin after taking certain medications and cosmetics.
• Photoallergic reaction. This type of reaction is most pronounced. Blisters, rashes, and redness may appear on the skin immediately after sunbathing.

What does sun allergy look like in children?

• Even after a short exposure to the sun, a rash may appear on the skin, which is also very itchy. If your child has very sensitive skin, blisters may even appear.
• Symptoms of photodermatosis in children are similar to allergic reactions of the body to certain foods. But, unlike them, they appear only on open areas of the skin. The skin most often affected is the face
• If your child has very sensitive skin, it may react even when using sunscreen. The fact is that such products contain para-aminobenzoic acid, which under the influence of ultraviolet radiation becomes a strong allergen. And it is children who suffer the most from it.
• If a child develops such an illness, it is necessary to reduce his stay on the street during intense hours to a minimum. And of course, get professional advice from an allergist
• If blisters have already appeared on the child’s skin, he should immediately be moved to the shade, rinsed with cool water and given an antihistamine. Tea with lemon helps to minimize the consequences of such reactions in the body.

The affected areas of the skin must be treated with such preparations as: “Panthenol”, “Fenestil” (ointment), etc.

Allergy to spring sun

• If the symptoms of this disease pass quickly, then there is no need to worry about it. The body is reconstructed after winter, and over time it will “get used” to ultraviolet radiation
• An allergy to the spring sun may appear after the first sunbathing. Exposed areas of the body are especially affected. Such as: face, ears, back of the neck, décolleté, arms and hands
• Most often, such manifestations of the body’s protective reactions result in ordinary urticaria. Typically, this form of photodermatosis disappears within 10-15 days after its onset. During this time, the body has time to adapt and get used to it. And even the even more intense summer sun is no longer a problem for him
• But, if every year the spring allergy to the sun becomes more intense, then you need to pay attention to your health. If this is not done, over the years this form of allergy can become more serious.

How to treat sun allergies?

• After which, you should definitely consult a doctor. Since this problem is purely individual, there are no universal means of overcoming it.
• The doctor should order blood tests and skin tests. To reduce the manifestation of such reactions, it is necessary to take antihistamines. Modern means are very effective
• Especially in the initial stages. But they have side effects: drowsiness, nausea, tachycardia, headache

Sun allergy pills

"Suprastin". It is one of the most effective remedies for allergies. Including photodermatosis. This drug is able to relieve the manifestations of such a problem 1-2 hours after taking it. But, Suprastin should not be taken during the second trimester of pregnancy.

"Diprazy". Quite a strong drug that helps well with allergies. But it has some side effects, due to which it is contraindicated for pregnant women and children.

"Clemastine". A drug that is used for dermatitis, urticaria, Quincke's edema and other allergic reactions. It should not be taken by children and people who suffer from intolerance to the active substances that it contains.

"Diazolin". Effective for skin itching, eczema, urticaria and dermatitis. Side effects include gastrointestinal upset, drowsiness, dizziness and fatigue.

"Cyproheptadine". This drug is prescribed for itching, swelling of the skin and urticaria. It should not be taken for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, children, pregnant or lactating women.

"Kestin". A drug whose purpose is to block histamines in the body. It has a long-lasting effect, but can cause insomnia.

"Clarisens". A drug that is indicated for urticaria and Quincke's edema. It has virtually no effect on the nervous system and is not addictive.

"Lomilan". A remedy to combat itchy skin. Able to relieve swelling of the skin. The effect occurs 30 minutes after taking it.

They have fewer side effects and do not affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems. They can be used in the treatment of children and pregnant women.

Sun allergy ointment

Ointments and creams that relieve the consequences of such allergies, as well as protect against this disease, have also proven themselves well. Such drugs are divided into two groups: hormonal and non-hormonal drugs. In addition, such ointments can have a moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and softening effect.

They can protect themselves even during pregnancy. But the effect of their use may appear only after some time. But, they can be used even for the most sensitive skin.

"Solcoseryl". Gel based on natural ingredients. Excellent healing of problem areas on the skin, has an anti-inflammatory effect. Can be used to treat burns.

"Radevit". An ointment that contains vitamins E, D and B. It copes well with itching caused by the negative effects of sunlight.

"Actovegin". Available in the form of gel and ointment. It fights well against rashes on the face. Perfectly heals wounds on the skin and prevents the formation of scars.

"Fenistil-gel". The menthol included in this preparation cools the skin and relieves burning. It is also used to relieve the problems described above. Has an anesthetic effect.

They must be used in a predetermined dosage. If it is exceeded, an undesirable reaction may occur. The result can be seen immediately after use.

Such drugs include:

• "Hydrocortisone"
• "Ftorokort"
• "Cinacort"
• "Apulein"
• "Dermovate"

Anti-inflammatory creams have shown themselves to work well in the fight against sun allergies. They contain nimesil, paracetamol and ibuprofen. These substances can quickly eliminate itching and other skin problems. Such drugs include:

• "Triderm"
• "Advantan"
• "Akriderm"

To relieve symptoms of photodermatitis such as dryness and flaking of the skin, you need to use moisturizers. They are made from fat and plant components. With the help of such creams you can get rid of inflammation and swelling.

Creams and ointments will only be effective if they are used in conjunction with antihistamines. If toxins remain in the body, the effect of ointments will not bring the desired result.

Folk remedies

• But, before using them, in any case, you need to consult a specialist. As mentioned above, the cause of this type of allergy can be some medications, as well as cosmetics.
• An ordinary cabbage leaf “saves” very well from the negative manifestations of ultraviolet radiation. It needs to be applied to the inflamed area and after a while the problem will disappear. Instead of cabbage, you can use raw potatoes, cucumbers and other vegetables for the same purpose.
• To restore a sun-damaged area, you can use an infusion of geranium leaves. To do this, pour 2 tablespoons of geranium into 2 cups of boiling water and leave for 20 minutes. After that, lotions are made based on the resulting product.
• Also, lotions to eliminate the symptoms of photodermatitis can be made using horse chestnut pulp or grated carrots. These remedies treat itchy skin and urticaria.
• Another effective remedy for itching is a bath of string. To do this, pour a glass of boiling water over the dry string (2 tablespoons) and boil in a water bath for 10 minutes. Then the broth should be poured into a warm bath. Twenty minutes of such a bath daily will help cope with the problem and improve skin condition.

Diuretics are indicated for this. For example, celery juice, string tea and decoctions of St. John's wort and aspen buds.

Can sun allergies be cured?

In order to cure this disease, it is necessary first of all to find out the nature of the allergen. The sun is only a catalyst for problems. Most treatments help control symptoms. Until the allergen is found, you need to protect yourself from ultraviolet radiation. To do this you need:

• use protective sunscreens and lotions
• drink more water
• have antihistamines on hand

In order to cure photodermatitis, it is necessary to undergo examination in a specialized clinic under the guidance of an experienced allergist.

Oksana. I am allergic to the first spring sun. By summer everything goes away. In the spring I wear long sleeves. If you can’t protect yourself, then I use lotions from the series and suprastin. It helps a lot.

Kira. My mother was cured of such an allergy at a homeopathic center. For the last four years she has forgotten about this problem.

Video. How to enjoy the warmth?

Sun allergy treatment

Types, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of allergies

An allergic reaction to exposure to sunlight is called photodermatitis. According to statistics, 20% of the world's inhabitants face this type of dermatosis. Most often these are light-skinned people. They are often forced to use sun allergy cream throughout the summer: thin, sensitive skin of the so-called Celtic, or first phototype, hardly tans, but easily burns and breaks out in hives. Children, pregnant women and those who frequently visit solariums are also at risk.

How does photodermatitis manifest?

The main symptoms of a sun allergy are redness of the skin and a rash, and it usually appears on areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun. But rashes can also occur in places far from the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Dark pigmentation remains on the affected areas of the skin for a long time.

A sun allergy rash looks like small blisters - papules filled with serous fluid, which can merge into large lesions. The rash is accompanied by a burning sensation, severe itching, the skin may be swollen, as if after a burn, and then begins to peel off. Allergy symptoms can appear either immediately after exposure to the open sun or after several days.

Important! The intensity of the symptoms of photodermatitis can vary, depending on the type of skin and the body’s tendency to allergic reactions. In some cases, with a sun allergy, body temperature may rise, weakness, dizziness, headache may occur, and in severe cases, a drop in blood pressure, fainting, and bronchospasm may occur. Such conditions are life-threatening and indicate emergency medical care.

Types and causes of sun allergies

The sun's rays do not contain an allergic component; the body's extraordinary reaction is a consequence of the interaction of ultraviolet radiation with any substance located in the body or on the surface of the skin. In this regard, photodermatitis is divided into exogenous (external) and endogenous (internal).

Exogenous type of dermatitis can be caused by:

• Using lotion, cream, deodorant, soap, lipstick, powder before going out into the sun. Many caring and decorative cosmetics contain essential oils of citrus, sandalwood, musk, amber, bergamot, rose, patchouli; in combination with ultraviolet irradiation, these substances can cause an allergic reaction.
• Sunscreen if it contains benzophenones or para-aminobenzoic acid.
• Having a fresh tattoo. Cadmium sulfate is used as an auxiliary substance when applying a tattoo, which can provoke the development of allergies to the sun.
• A recent deep peel that made the skin hypersensitive to UV rays.
• Taking medications. The sensitivity of the skin to sunlight is increased by sulfonamides (biseptol), antibiotics (tetracycline, chloramphenicol, doxycytline), barbiturates, cardiovascular drugs (trazicor, amiodarone), anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac).
• Using oral contraceptives with high levels of estrogen.

The cause of endogenous photodermatitis is diseases associated with metabolic disorders or immunodeficiency. It could be:

• pigment metabolism disorder (porphyria);
• genetic diseases manifested by increased sensitivity to UV rays (xeroderma pigmentosum, erythroderma);
• metabolic disease prurigo (polymorphic photodermatosis or summer prurigo);
• liver pathologies;
• hypovitaminosis.

Treatment methods

If you notice signs of photodermatitis, you should not try to get rid of it yourself; this can only worsen the condition. It is better to consult an allergist who will determine the cause of the disease and tell you how to treat it.

It takes more than one day to completely relieve allergy symptoms. For this, external means are usually used:

• ointments that have an anti-inflammatory and healing effect (methyluracil, sinaflan);
• ointments based on glucocorticoids (prednisolone, hydrocortisone, deperzolone, fluorocort);
• Panthenol spray, which relieves irritation and promotes the regeneration of epidermal cells;
• antibacterial agents (synthomycin liniment, levomekol).

In addition to medications prescribed by a doctor, folk remedies can be used to reduce itching and inflammation. A compress of fresh cucumber juice, baking soda solution, grated raw potatoes, cabbage leaves, and wet starch should be applied to the affected areas. Baths or wraps with a decoction of chamomile, string, and calendula also help well.

If photodermatitis is severe, in addition to topical medications, oral medications are prescribed:

• antihistamines that block the production of a mediator of allergic reactions (Diphenhydramine, Diazolin, Suprastin, Loratadine, Trexil, Zyrtec); restoratives;
• ascorbic acid (vitamins C), tocopherol (vitamin E), B vitamins;
• immunomodulator drugs.

Prevention of photodermatitis

People prone to allergies, in case of voluntary or forced exposure to direct sunlight, are advised to:

• limit the duration of sunbathing to 20 minutes;
• Do not apply perfume or decorative cosmetics to your skin before going out in the sun;
• use high-protection sunscreens that do not contain para-aminobenzoic acid or benzophenone;
• if you need to stay in the sun for a long time, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and arms; a hat;
• include in your diet foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants (fruits, berries, green tea, cocoa;
• drink plenty of clean still water;
• Avoid spicy foods and unfamiliar exotic foods.

You should not assume that photodermatitis that occurs once will force you to take pills for sun allergies for the rest of your life. By finding and eliminating the cause of the body’s inadequate reaction to ultraviolet rays, you can say goodbye to the manifestations of solar allergies forever.

All materials on the site are for informational purposes only. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment! Copying site materials without indicating the source and having an active link to Snall.ru is prohibited.

Want to receive updates?

Subscribe so you don't miss new publications

Sun allergy treatment

Allergies to the sun have become quite common lately. Moreover, more than half of the cases of development of the clinical picture occur in people who received a dose of ultraviolet radiation in their native climatic conditions. This is due to an increase in the aggressiveness of sunlight and certain changes in the immunological status of modern humans.

Our fellow citizens, who are not very accustomed to the hot embrace of the “daylight”, often experience the so-called solar allergy.

How does sun allergy manifest on the skin?

It’s worth first understanding how sun allergy manifests itself on the skin, and how this pathology can be differentiated from other similar diseases. First of all, in redness of the skin of the face (less often the arms, legs or abdomen, or back), peeling and itching of the skin. A rash may appear in the form of blisters, turning into blisters, and swelling is possible. Often, those affected by “sun allergies” may experience a rise in temperature.

By the way, many people mistake this rash for insect bites.

Most often, such allergies occur during sudden climate changes. (Take this into account, South Beach lovers!)

Many experts believe that allergic reactions of this kind do not occur in response to sun exposure, but are the result of exposure of the skin to inappropriate creams, perfumes, deodorants or lotions, sunscreens (for sunburn) and tanning products. But still, an allergy to solar radiation is possible. It most often occurs in those who have serious dysfunction of the liver, kidneys or endocrine system. Hypovitaminosis also contributes to its appearance.

The first symptoms of solar allergy, most often manifested in the form of urticaria, usually occur within a few hours after exposure to the sun (on average, after 3-6 hours).

Clinical picture

What doctors say about antihistamines

Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Emelyanov G.V. Medical practice: more than 30 years.
Practical medical experience: more than 30 years

According to the latest WHO data, it is allergic reactions in the human body that lead to the occurrence of most fatal diseases. And it all starts with the fact that a person has an itchy nose, sneezing, runny nose, red spots on the skin, and in some cases, suffocation.

7 million people die every year due to allergies, and the scale of the damage is such that the allergic enzyme is present in almost every person.

Unfortunately, in Russia and the CIS countries, pharmaceutical corporations sell expensive medications that only relieve symptoms, thereby hooking people on one drug or another. This is why in these countries there is such a high percentage of diseases and so many people suffer from “non-working” drugs.

You should know and remember that skin sensitivity to sunlight increases the use of barbiturates (sleeping pills), tetracycline, sulfonamides and birth control pills.

Sun allergy: what to do and how to treat with pills

What to do if you have an allergy to the sun if it occurs for the first time and its symptoms clearly appear. Before treating a sun allergy, it is necessary to exclude other influencing factors. Sun allergy pills also help. These are antihistamines that relieve itching and eliminate swelling. You can buy them at your nearest pharmacy without a doctor's prescription. However, the recommended dosage should be carefully followed. If allergic urticaria or, as sun allergy is also called, photodermatitis occurs, special measures should be taken to prevent the development of complications.

Treatment of solar allergy to the sun

Treatment of sun allergy should begin with eliminating the influence of the trigger, i.e. ultraviolet rays. In the future, treatment of solar allergies can be carried out according to the algorithm given below. However, it is worth remembering that sun allergy is a good reason to consult a dermatologist.

1. On the first day, apply wet wraps to the affected areas of the skin.

2. Refrain from sunbathing for several days.

3. Drink more fluids.

4. Wear closed clothing when going outside.

5. For severe rashes, you can take half-hour baths with soda 1-2 times a day (400-500 g of soda per bath).

6. After taking a bath, you can wipe your body with almond oil and menthol, if you have it on hand, or at least with the juice of fresh tomatoes.

7. Lubricating the affected areas of the skin with aloe juice can be effective.

8. If blisters occur, it is a good idea to make compresses from chamomile.

9. Lubricating blisters with salicylic-zinc paste (Lassara paste) is very effective.

10. For local treatment, you can use decoctions and infusions of oak or juniper bark.

11. Lubricating the affected areas of the skin with a thin layer of ointment such as Advantan, Lorinden, Oxycort, Fluorocort or Flucinar can be no less effective.

12. Aspirin and indomethacin can relieve skin inflammation.

13. It is advisable to take B vitamins (especially B6 and B12), as well as vitamins C and E.

If you are predisposed to sun allergies, it is best to use creams that protect the skin from ultraviolet rays of types A and B (and it is even better to use the appropriate creams after consultation with a dermatologist).

To prevent the occurrence of urticaria, people predisposed to sun allergies are advised to take horseradish juice mixed in equal proportions with bee honey (1 teaspoon 3 times a day), or 50 ml 3 times a day of peppermint infusion (it is prepared by pouring 2 tablespoons mint leaves 300 ml boiling water and infuse for 1 hour).

You can also drink hop infusion. Method for preparing it: infuse, like tea, 1 tablespoon of hops per 1 glass of boiling water. Take a third of a glass 3 times a day.

In addition, it is advisable that an allergy sufferer’s diet always include fresh cabbage and parsley - a storehouse of vitamins C and PP, which reduce the sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet radiation.

Sun allergy treatment

Summer is a great time for vacation and travel. However, recently more and more people are faced with such a problem as sun allergy.

Symptoms of this disease can appear literally in a matter of seconds and significantly ruin your summer vacation.

In medicine, this condition is called photodermatosis or phototoxic reaction.

Most often, allergies to sun rays occur in people with the first skin phototype.

The main cause of this disease is photosensitizers or photoreactive agents.

After exposure to ultraviolet radiation, they cause changes that provoke manifestations of the disease.

Phototoxic reactions can be associated with the action of various substances.

To determine the causes of the reaction, you need to know where they are found:

1. hygiene products– in particular, antibacterial soap;
2. cosmetics– most creams, colognes, lipsticks and deodorants contain similar substances;
3. nutritional supplements– for example, sweeteners;
4. household chemicals– mothballs;
5. medications.

Also, such substances can enter the body during tattooing, since cadmium sulfate is used during this procedure.

Causes also include Gunther's disease.

Such people have pale skin, very thick eyebrows and eyelashes, and are afraid of sunlight due to the appearance of ulcers and cracks in the skin.

Another cause of photodermatosis is pellagra.

This disease consists of impaired absorption or deficiency of nicotinic acid in the body.

Development mechanism

Sunlight itself is not an allergen, but it can lead to aggressive reactions of the immune system and the entire body:

1. phototraumatic reaction– is a sunburn after prolonged exposure to the sun;
2. phototoxic reaction– consists in the development of photodermatosis, which is provoked by the interaction of ultraviolet radiation and certain varieties of plants or medications;
3. photoallergy– represents photosensitivity.

All forms of the reaction are accompanied by varying degrees of skin pigmentation.

The exception is people who are prone to allergic reactions.

In them, even half an hour in the sun can cause severe symptoms of the disease.

The pathology may be associated with the action of photosensitizers, which include many foods, plants, and medications.

They increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation and activate the body's defenses, including an aggressive immune response.

All photosensitizers can be differentiated by the speed of exposure:

1. optional– lead to photosensitivity quite rarely. This occurs only in case of prolonged exposure to the sun and subject to allergic reactions. Such substances usually lead to corresponding reactions;
2. obligate– always provoke photosensitivity of the skin. Sometimes this happens literally after 10 minutes or several hours. Obligate substances lead to a phototoxic reaction.

In addition to allergy symptoms, an exacerbation of herpes, eczema, and psoriasis may occur.

There are also photosensitizers that accelerate skin aging and contribute to the development of cancer.

Under the influence of sunlight, various types of photodermatoses can develop:

1. sunburn. It is an acute phototraumatic reaction, which is characterized by inflammation of the skin. Recently, this condition increasingly provokes the development of melanoma;
2. Chronic exposure to ultraviolet rays often leads to geroderma. This disease does not resemble classic allergy symptoms, but the processes occurring in the body are similar to an immune reaction in response to exposure to an allergen;
3. upon contact with phototoxic plants Photodermatosis, also called “meadow” photodermatitis, may develop. Plant sensitizers include plants containing salicylates and coumarins;
4. solar eczema and prurigo are characteristic conditions that accompany sun allergy;
5. allergies can be the result of polymorphic dermatosis, which consists of the appearance of light-dependent rashes.

Sun allergies, burns or hypersensitivity?

The first manifestations of sunburn resemble signs of photodermatitis, so making a correct diagnosis can be quite difficult.

To differentiate these conditions, you need to take into account the following features of the clinical picture:

1. with photodermatitis there is no pain, whereas burns are always accompanied by severe discomfort;
2. With allergies, itching begins almost immediately after the sun's rays hit the skin. With a burn, this condition is observed only after 4-5 days;
3. as a result of pressing on the skin during a burn, a white mark will remain, whereas allergies are not accompanied by such symptoms;
4. With allergies, redness and itching occur not only in the area exposed to sunlight, but also beyond it. With burns, such symptoms do not leave the boundaries of the affected area.

Symptoms of manifestation

All symptoms of photodermatitis are conventionally divided into two categories - general and local.

Thanks to this, you can find out what the reaction to the sun looks like.

Local manifestations include:

• redness of some areas of the skin even with slight exposure to the sun;
• itching and burning sensation on the skin;
• the appearance of swelling of the skin;
• skin rash;
• formation of blisters on the skin.

Common manifestations include:

• increase in body temperature - occurs as a result of toxic substances entering the blood;
• fainting – is a consequence of a drop in blood pressure;
• dizziness;
• nausea;
• weakness;
• headache.

If small areas of the skin are affected, general symptoms, as a rule, do not develop.

Provoking factors

Various factors can provoke the development of a reaction to the sun:

• liver diseases;
• disturbances in the functioning of the gallbladder;
• diseases of the digestive system;
• enzyme deficiency;
• pathologies of the thyroid gland;
• chronic kidney disease;
• helminthic infestation;
• violation of pigment metabolism;
• deficiency of vitamins PP, A, E;
• uncontrolled use of drugs;
• tendency to allergic reactions.

It is worth considering that certain medications can provoke the development of sensitivity to the sun.

Phototoxic medications include the following:

• antibiotics of the tetracycline group;
• corticosteroid hormones;
• cytostatics;
• means to reduce sugar levels;
• sleeping pills;
• oral contraceptives;
• sulfonamides;
• cardiac medications;
• retinols;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• neuroleptics;
• fluoroquinolones;
• antifungal agents;
• salicylates;
• aspirin;
• antiarrhythmic drugs;
• diuretics;
• vitamins B2 and B6.

In addition, allergic reactions to the sun often occur after eating fruits or contact with plants that contain furocoumarins.

At-risk groups

The following categories of the population are at risk for developing the disease:

• young children;
• pregnant women;
• people with pale skin and blond hair;
• people who often visit the solarium;
• people who have recently had a chemical peel or tattoo.

What to do

To prevent the appearance of symptoms of the disease, you need to follow certain rules:

1. limit sun exposure. If you are prone to allergies, you can be exposed to ultraviolet radiation for no more than 20 minutes;
2. before going to the beach, it is prohibited to apply decorative cosmetics and perfume to the skin;
3. use sunscreens with high SPF;
4. Avoid using cosmetics containing fragrances, as they can cause pigmentation;
5. Apply sunscreen about 20 minutes before going out into the sun;
6. After leaving the water, you should not wipe yourself dry so as not to dry out your skin. It is enough to blot it with a towel;
7. immediately after swimming it is better to relax in the shade;
8. if you have such problems, you should choose the right time for tanning - before 10 o’clock or after 17 o’clock;
9. in difficult cases, it is recommended to wear long sleeves to cover the surface of the skin as much as possible;
10. At the first symptoms of an allergy, you should consult a doctor. The specialist will make the correct diagnosis and select effective antihistamines.

How to treat

Treatment of sun allergies must be comprehensive.

To cope with the disease, you need to consult a specialist in time.

Ointments and creams

The most effective remedies for allergies are ointment or cream containing corticosteroid hormones.

However, they can only be used as prescribed by a doctor in case of severe reactions.

The course of using such products should be short-term, otherwise there is a risk of skin pathologies, rosacea, and erythema.

Among non-hormonal agents it is worth highlighting:

To treat sunburn, agents such as Libyan, psilo-balsam, floceta, vinylin, etc. are used.

Drugs

After conducting a detailed examination and establishing the cause of the disease, it is necessary to treat allergies with the help of antihistamines - Tavegil, Claritin, Suprastin.

The third generation drugs are especially effective - Zodak and Cetrin.

They do not cause drowsiness and can be used for a long time.

The appearance of an allergy to the sun is the result of a weakened immune system and a lack of vitamins.

Therefore, the doctor can prescribe vitamin complexes.

It is also often necessary to cleanse the body with enterosorbents.

Tablets such as Polysorb, Filtrum, Polyphepan can be used.

Folk recipes

To treat allergies at home, you can use folk remedies:

• thoroughly treat the affected areas with watermelon or cucumber juice;
• lubricate the skin with cabbage juice, first mixing it with egg white;
• lubricate the rash with a mixture based on honey and water;
• dilute apple cider vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio and use the resulting solution to treat the affected areas;
• apply compresses based on black tea.

Is it possible to give sorbents to children with allergies? The answer is in the article.

What role does sunscreen play?

Sometimes a person may be allergic to sunscreen.

The fact is that the substances included in its composition can react with ultraviolet radiation and provoke unwanted reactions.

These components include eosin and para-aminobenzoic acid.

Therefore, you should use products containing such ingredients with extreme caution.

Video: How to enjoy the summer warmth

Healthy foods

To prevent the occurrence of unwanted allergic reactions, you need to adjust your diet:

1. Eat plenty of foods containing vitamins C, B and E. It is especially useful to eat fresh berries and fruits - blueberries, pomegranates, currants;
2. drink a lot of clean water. Thanks to this, it will be possible to cleanse the body of toxic substances. At the same time, it is recommended to completely exclude carbonated drinks, alcohol and juices.
3. When on vacation, be careful about exotic dishes. If you are highly sensitive to sunlight, such experiments should be avoided.

First aid for acute manifestations

If symptoms of the disease suddenly appear, you should immediately call an ambulance.

Before the doctor arrives, you can try to alleviate the person’s condition:

1. Give plenty of fluids to relieve symptoms of dehydration. In this case, milk, coffee or tea are contraindicated;
2. cover the victim's skin with clothing;
3. Apply a cold compress to the affected areas;
4. If possible, give the person an antihistamine to drink.

A sun allergy can lead to vomiting, so the victim should be placed on their side.

This will prevent vomit from entering the respiratory system.

Are you allergic to diapers? The solution is here.

What should be the diet for food allergies in children? Details below.

To minimize the risk of developing allergic reactions, you should follow certain recommendations:

1. 20 minutes before going outside, apply protective cream;
2. after swimming in a pond, pat your skin dry with a towel;
3. do not use decorative cosmetics, perfumes, creams;
4. For those with fair and sensitive skin, avoid exposure to sunlight;
5. in hot weather, drink at least 2 liters of clean water. Limit the number of hot drinks and completely avoid alcohol;
6. If you are prone to allergies, carry antihistamines with you. It is best to choose third generation products.

Sun sensitivity is becoming more and more common.

This is a rather unpleasant pathology that can lead to the development of dangerous complications.

To prevent this, you need to know how this type of allergy manifests itself.

This will allow you to consult a doctor when the first symptoms of pathology appear.

Post Views: 85

Summer is the most suitable time for trips to the sea, traveling to exotic countries, or just to the countryside or to a country house. But not only pleasant moments can await a person who spends a long time in the sun.

Thus, some people, starting from the period of increased solar activity (the month of May), exhibit symptoms of photodermatosis. Children who travel from one climate zone to another (hotter) for the summer are at greatest risk of getting sick. Allergens are not the sun's rays, but their excessive accumulation in the body and combination with other substances, which is why people begin to experience various allergic reactions. Most diseases occur in those who suffer from diseases of the kidneys, liver, and adrenal glands.

It can occur when a person has been in the sun for a short time, and during prolonged exposure to direct rays (in the form of burns). The patient's condition does not worsen under the influence of artificial light (except for a solarium, which includes the ultraviolet spectrum).

The frequency of this problem is not very high. Only about 3 percent of the adult population is light-skinned. Among people with dark skin, the disease is even less common.

Causes of sun allergies

The reasons can be very different:

• taking medications;
• the use of aromatic oils of citrus or bergamot;
• liver or kidney diseases;
• disruptions in pigment metabolism;
• reduced immunity;
• pregnancy;
• autoimmune disease;
• taking hormonal contraceptive pills;
• hypovitaminosis;
• very fair, hypersensitive skin;
• hormonal disbalance;
• disruptions in the functioning of the endocrine system.

Depending on the reasons that provoked photodermatitis, it is divided into two types:
1. exogenous. Appears due to the interaction of sunlight with substances applied to the skin. They may be:

• personal hygiene products – shower gels, liquid soaps;
• cosmetics – cream, deodorant, perfume;
• Remnants of washing powders and other cleaning products that remain on clothes when they are not rinsed properly.

When these allergens are removed from the surface of the skin, the problem most often disappears.

Exogenous photodermatitis can develop due to the accumulation of phototoxic substances in the body.
substances. Thus, they will accumulate in the thickness of human skin. As a result, under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, allergens are formed due to substances such as:

• some medications (antibiotics, sulfonamides, griseofulvin), you should consult a doctor before using them;
• certain representatives of legumes that contain xanthinols in their fruits.

Similar to the first option, it is necessary to eliminate contact with these substances and the allergic reaction will stop.

2. endogenous. It is a congenital human condition that is closely related to disruptions in metabolism and the functioning of the immune system:

• impaired metabolism of porphyrin compounds, which leads to the accumulation of porphyrin in the skin, which interacts with ultraviolet rays and provokes allergic reactions.
• a disrupted melanin metabolism process, as a result of which people with very fair skin (albinos) are susceptible to the development of photodermatosis.
• improper functioning of the immune system, due to which various physical factors can trigger the occurrence of cold and solar allergies.

Symptoms

After a person has been exposed to sunlight, the following local symptoms may begin to appear within a couple of hours:

• severe itching and redness of the skin;
• rash in the form of small blisters;
• swelling of the skin and mucous membranes.

General symptoms:

• increase in body temperature;
• dizziness;
• loss of consciousness due to a significant decrease in blood pressure.

If we are talking about minor skin lesions, the general symptoms of photodermatitis may not appear.

Body reaction

Allergy to the sun most often does not need to be treated with any special means; it goes away on its own after a few days. For weakened and hypersensitive people, the consequences may be the following: the development of bronchospasm, a significant decrease in blood pressure, fainting.

Preventive measures

People who are allergic to the sun should wear clothes made of thick material, with long sleeves, not be in the open sun, and not use alcohol-containing products: perfumes, deodorants, and aromatic oils. When the symptoms are mild, you can train your skin - go out into the open sun for a short time.

Treatment of photodermatitis

To cure a sun allergy, you need to eliminate its cause. It is definitely worth treating your liver and kidneys. With the help of folk remedies, you can eliminate the signs of the disease: eliminate swelling, itching of the skin, rash. Among folk methods, cabbage leaves, a compress of grated potatoes, and cucumber, which are applied to the affected areas of the skin, are very popular.

As for medical treatment, antihistamines are considered the most effective. They can eliminate itching and swelling. You can even buy them without a prescription at any pharmacy. But it is important to strictly follow the correct dosage.

Having eliminated the trigger, treatment begins according to a specific algorithm in order to achieve the best results:

1. Wrap with a damp cloth on the first day after the allergic reaction occurs.
2. Don't sunbathe for a couple of days.
3. Drink plenty of fluids.
4. They wear closed suits, shirts, dresses.
5. When there are a lot of rashes, a person takes a 30-minute soda bath.
6. After baths, wipe the body with almond oil and menthol, or freshly squeezed tomato juice.
7. Lubricate the affected areas with aloe juice.
8. Make compresses from chamomile.
9. Lubricate the blisters with salicylic acid and zinc ointment.
10. Decoctions and infusions of oak and juniper bark are used.
11. Advantan, Lorinden, Oxycort, Fluorocort, and Flucinar ointments are also very effective.
12. Relieve skin inflammation with aspirin and nidomethacin.
13. Take B vitamins and vitamin C.
14. Antihistamines are used: diphenhydramine, suprastin, tavegil, claritin, fenkarol.

If a person is predisposed to sun allergies, he is recommended to use creams with a high level of sun protection.

To prevent the appearance of hives, people are recommended to take horseradish juice, which is mixed with bee honey, or 50 ml of peppermint tincture before meals.

I consider an effective hop infusion, which is prepared by pouring 1 tablespoon of hops into 200 ml of boiling water. Take 70 ml before meals.

It is very important that a person includes fresh parsley and cabbage on the menu, which are very rich in vitamin C and PP. They make the skin less sensitive to solar radiation.

There is no one universal remedy that would cure sun allergies. Therefore, it is necessary to follow an individual approach, which will depend on the location of the inflammation on the skin, the intensity of the rash, and the presence of general symptoms.

Local treatment of allergies involves the use of creams and ointments that have anti-inflammatory properties:

• Those places where the skin is very sensitive and tender should be rubbed with cream. It can also be applied to prevent photodermatoses.
• To places where the skin is denser, apply ointments that will be better absorbed.
• if photodermatitis occurs on the scalp, it is necessary to use an emulsion.

The blisters that have formed at the site of the burns cannot be pierced, since in this way you can introduce an infection into the open wound and contribute to the formation of pustules.

For general treatment, antiallergic drugs are used:

• antihistamines in tablet form are taken for 5 days;
• when allergic reactions are pronounced, manifested by a rash and swelling, it is necessary to seek the help of antiallergic injections.

When you take antihistamines, it is worth remembering that they reduce the intensity of allergy symptoms and do not eliminate the cause of the disease, so you need to completely limit contact with photosensitizing substances:

• cosmetics, deodorants;
• washing powders, detergents;
• plants;
• products that include legumes;
• any medications that can cause photosensitivity.

If we are talking about endogenous photodermatosis and it is not possible to limit contact with allergens, it is necessary to follow the rules for the prevention of allergic diseases:

• wear a wide-brimmed hat;
• wear clothes in light colors, made of light natural fabric, with long sleeves and small necklines;
• apply sun protection creams;
• wear sunglasses.

The following drugs are most widely used to treat photodermatitis:

• non-hormonal ointment or cream. They are able to relieve skin inflammation and itching. For example, “Fenistil gel”, “Desitin”, “Dexpanthenol”, “Psilo-balm”.
• corticosteroid medications. They are used for acute forms of sun allergy, only as prescribed by a doctor. They have a short course of treatment (up to five days), because an overdose of these drugs can provoke the development of erythema, vasodilation, and cosmetic skin defects.
• other ointments. These are mainly drugs based on zinc, methyluracil, and hydrocortisone. All of them are available for free sale in pharmacies. They help eliminate inflammatory processes and promote skin restoration.
• antihistamines. Reduce skin itching, prevent the development of rashes, complications such as swelling of the mucous membranes. These drugs are “Erius”, “Cetrin”, “Tavegil”.
  vitamin therapy, immunotherapy. Since reduced immunity and a lack of vitamins in the body can contribute to the development of allergies, special attention should be paid to strengthening the immune system.
• enterosorbents (Polysorb, Polyphepan, Enterosgel). Helps cleanse the body of toxic substances and allergens. Taking them along with a sufficient amount of liquid (2-2.5 liters), a person can quickly get rid of allergy symptoms.
• drugs for the treatment of the liver. These include hepatoprotectors such as “Karsil”, “Glutargin”, “Silibor”, “Gepabene” and other herbal preparations.

The duration of use and dose of any of these drugs should be prescribed by a doctor. Treatment often lasts from a few days to a couple of weeks. If you choose the wrong treatment, it will not give any results and will contribute to the disease becoming chronic. And this will complicate the treatment process and worsen the patient’s life.

Folk remedies

Wormwood and celandine

To treat “sun” allergies, wormwood and celandine are used. If rashes and redness appear on the skin under the influence of the sun's rays, it is worth wiping the affected areas with an alcoholic tincture of wormwood. Plus, take baths with celandine infusion

Oil with celandine

If your skin begins to become blistered and red from overexposure to sunlight, you can use celandine oil. In order to prepare it, fill a liter jar with celandine flowers, then fill them halfway with vegetable oil and leave for 3 weeks. During sleep, the affected areas are wiped with hydrogen peroxide and a napkin soaked in this oil is placed on top. A film is placed on top of it, which is secured with an adhesive plaster. The next morning, remove the compress, wipe the skin with peroxide again, and repeat a similar procedure the next night. Noticeable results appear after just three procedures.

Wormwood decoction

A strong, strained decoction of wormwood is used to wipe the affected areas of the skin. It stops itching after a couple of minutes, and after a few procedures the itching and redness completely disappear.

Herbal baths

With very bright and pronounced symptoms of sun allergy, herbal baths can help. So, if a patient’s skin and eyes begin to swell due to exposure to sunlight, and severe itching appears, it is worth doing special baths several times during the day. They add birch leaves, linden, walnut, viburnum, rose hips, pine needles, spruce, celandine, mint, lemon balm, clover, plantain, chamomile, tansy, yarrow. Dry herbs can be used in spring and fresh herbs in summer.

Hercules flake baths

To prepare such a bath, you need to take half a kilogram of oatmeal, pour 500 ml of boiling water over it and leave it to limp for 1 hour, then add the resulting mixture to the bath. You need to take such baths several times a week.

Vegetable juice

Juice from cucumbers, cabbage, and potatoes is very effective for sunburn. It is used both internally and externally, lubricating irritated areas of the skin.

Celery juice

Freshly squeezed celery juice acts as a medicine. You can prepare it by passing the plant root through a meat grinder and squeezing the resulting mass well. You need to take this juice three times a day, 1 tablespoon.

Help for fainting

First of all, you need to call an ambulance very quickly. Before the ambulance arrives, it is necessary to carry out a number of activities:

• take the person to a shaded place;
• lay him on a horizontal surface on his back;
• Elevate your legs slightly to increase blood flow to your head;
• unbutton clothes around the neck;
• splash cool water on your face;
• bring a cotton swab with ammonia to your nose.

Afterwards, it is worth carrying out measures in a hospital setting, which include normalizing blood pressure, administering antihistamines and removing toxic substances.

Sun allergy is a disease accompanied by an inflammatory process on the skin that occurs under the influence of sunlight. The presented pathology is considered the most common type of actinic dermatitis. If you do not start therapeutic measures in time, this can lead to the disease progressing to the chronic stage or eczema. For this reason, all doctors try to detect pathology in a timely manner and develop the most effective treatment regimen.

• Risk factors
• How it manifests itself
• Types of photodermatitis
• Diagnostics
• Effective treatment
• External means
• Allergy medications
• Therapy in children

Risk factors

Many experts claim that the sun's rays act as an allergen. But it is not so. Allergy to the sun occurs when photosensitizers influence the human body. These are components that increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation. Under the influence of these rays, free radicals are released, which come into contact with proteins. The result of this process is the formation of new compounds. The newly formed substances serve as antigens leading to an allergic reaction.

Taking into account the type of photosensitizers, the following causes of sun allergies are distinguished:

• use of external medications;
• exposure to household chemicals on the skin;
• a certain group of cosmetics;
• The causes of allergies from the sun may be hidden in the influence of plant juices: hogweed, some meadow grasses.

In addition, the reasons contributing to sun allergies may be the accumulation of specific components in the body. The main reasons for this accumulation are the following:

• metabolic disorders: diabetes, excess weight;
• diseases of organs and systems whose work is reduced to removing toxic substances from the body: cirrhosis of the liver, chronic hepatitis, insufficient kidney function, constipation;
• systemic drug therapy.

Allergy to the sun is a disease that affects adults most of all with a light skin tone and a hereditary predisposition. The risk group is completed by:

• women during pregnancy;
• people who frequently visit the solarium.

How does the disease manifest itself?

It happens that an allergy to the sun appears after a short exposure to the sun's rays. Sometimes signs of pathology make themselves felt after visiting a solarium. During this procedure, there is a certain effect on the skin of UV radiation.

Let's take a closer look at the symptoms of sun allergy:

1. Swelling and redness occur in areas of the skin exposed to sunlight. If the case is advanced, then the occurrence of Quincke's edema is possible. This redness is accompanied by severe burning and itching.
2. Multiple rashes form on a person’s body, which resemble the rash of hives. In the future, these rashes can affect those skin areas that were not exposed to the influence.
3. Allergy to the sun is accompanied by a general deterioration in health, the formation of conjunctivitis or cheilitis.

If the disease proceeds under normal conditions, the rash disappears on its own within 3 weeks. With repeated exposure to sunlight, it occurs again. If sun allergy is not treated in time, it transforms into a chronic phase, and the presented symptoms are complemented by dryness and infiltration of the skin, increased pattern, and the formation of spider veins.

Types of photodermatitis

The negative influence of the sun's rays contributes to the occurrence of various unnatural reactions in humans, which are called photosensitivity. There are the following types of sun allergies:

1. Phototraumatic reactions are a pathological process that forms after prolonged exposure to the sun. It happens that an allergic reaction occurs even in a completely healthy person during many hours of intense exposure to UV rays.
2. Phototoxic reactions are a type of allergy from the sun, the manifestation of which is the formation of a sunburn. The person experiences swelling, redness, blistering and erythema. This process is facilitated by taking certain medications, herbs, and products that contain photosensitizers.
3. Photoallergic reactions are a type of sun allergy that occurs in those people whose bodies, for specific reasons, do not accept UV rays. Their skin and mucous membranes perceive the sun's rays as a foreign or hostile external influence. This pathology occurs when immune disorders occur. Manifests itself in the form of papules, oozing, vesicles and lichenification of the skin. The resulting rash has an enhanced pattern, thickening of the skin and impaired pigmentation. The skin becomes rough and furrowed to the touch.

Diagnostics

Preliminary diagnosis includes interviewing the patient and external examination. To determine the type of allergen, the doctor prescribes application tests to the patient. To detect the endogenous causes of sun allergies, the doctor will prescribe the following studies to the patient:

• Zimnitsky tests;
• biochemical analysis of urine and blood;
• CT and ultrasound of the kidneys;
• Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity;
• hormone analysis;
• excretory urography.

When studying sun allergies, a distinction is made between diseases such as:

• lichen;
• sunburn;
• erysipelas;
• atopic, allergic, contact, radiation dermatitis;
• superficial form of SLE.

Effective treatment

What to do to get rid of photodermatitis? Only an experienced dermatologist can answer this question. Typically, treatment for sun allergies includes the following:

1. Relief of the root cause, limiting contact with photosensitizing components.
2. Use of medications.
3. Protective measures against UV radiation.

If there are indications, then the presented list is added by other procedures. Today it is possible to cure sun allergies, but therapy must take a comprehensive approach. Sun allergy tablets, ointments and creams have an anti-inflammatory effect.

External means

It is impossible to find one effective ointment that would eliminate sun allergies. Today doctors suggest treating the disease with the following external medications:

• Fluorocort (triamcinolone cream or glucocorticoid ointment);
• Betamethasone (betamethasone-based corticosteroid cream);
• Nurofen (gel, the active ingredient is ibuprofen, has an anti-inflammatory effect);
• Diclofenac (gel based on diclofenac sodium, relieves inflammation);
• Zinc paste (a medicine whose active component is zinc oxide, helps eliminate inflammation).

All described external agents have certain contraindications and side effects. For this reason, they should be used only after receiving confirmation from a dermatologist.

Sun allergy medications

What else needs to be done to make sun allergies disappear? In addition to ointments and creams, it is advisable to use antihistamines that help relieve itching and redness and relieve inflammation (Aspirin, Nimesil). The list of antihistamines will be supplemented by Alerzin, Cetirizine, and Suprastin.

If there is a tendency to an allergic reaction to drugs, then taking Aspirin should be avoided. The reason is that this action of this medicine is aimed at thinning the blood, and with weak vessel walls this contributes to increased rash.

simptomer.ru

How does sun allergy manifest on the skin?

It’s worth first understanding how sun allergy manifests itself on the skin, and how this pathology can be differentiated from other similar diseases. First of all, in redness of the skin of the face (less often the arms, legs or abdomen, or back), peeling and itching of the skin. A rash may appear in the form of blisters, turning into blisters, and swelling is possible. Often, those affected by “sun allergies” may experience a rise in temperature.

By the way, many people mistake this rash for insect bites.

Most often, such allergies occur during sudden climate changes. (Take this into account, South Beach lovers!)

Many experts believe that allergic reactions of this kind do not occur in response to sun exposure, but are the result of exposure of the skin to inappropriate creams, perfumes, deodorants or lotions, sunscreens (for sunburn) and tanning products. But still, an allergy to solar radiation is possible. It most often occurs in those who have serious dysfunction of the liver, kidneys or endocrine system. Hypovitaminosis also contributes to its appearance.

The first symptoms of solar allergy, most often manifested in the form of urticaria, usually occur within a few hours after exposure to the sun (on average, after 3-6 hours).

You should know and remember that skin sensitivity to sunlight increases the use of barbiturates (sleeping pills), tetracycline, sulfonamides and birth control pills.

Sun allergy: what to do and how to treat with pills

What to do if you have an allergy to the sun if it occurs for the first time and its symptoms clearly appear.

med-pomosh.com

Allergy to the sun. Symptoms.

Some people with special sensitivity to sunlight suffer when they first appear. Those who are less sensitive can spend longer periods of time in the sun, but allergies can affect them too. The first manifestations may appear 18-72 hours after contact with the sun. What symptoms indicate sun allergy?

• First, slight redness of the skin and peeling of the skin appear. It most often occurs on the face and décolleté, but can also occur on the arms, legs, and any other areas of the body.
• There may be a skin rash or the appearance of small dots (look like freckles). I had a rash like hives. And the doctor told me that this was solar urticaria. Sometimes this condition leads to eczema. And this is already scary.
• Swelling may occur.
• Severe itching and burning of the skin. It seems that the whole body is simply on fire.
• In some cases, purulent rashes appear. Especially when you can’t restrain yourself, well, you just don’t have the strength from this itching and burning, you start scratching everything and then you get these symptoms.

I personally have been allergic to the sun with the combination of the sun and the pool. Apparently, what they were treated with, a combination of bleach or some other disinfectant, gave such a reaction. Previously, when visiting the pool, redness in the eyes could be observed. No more. But it was the combination of the pool and sunlight that provoked such an allergic reaction.

In our area there is no such reaction to the sun. But here I don’t rest like that. After the sea, I can’t swim in our reservoirs. And when vacationing abroad during the beach season, there have been problems many times already. The holiday is ruined. This is clear. One thought is how to get rid of all the symptoms as quickly as possible. And, of course, it is very important to find out here, what are the causes of such an allergy?

Allergy to the sun. Causes.

An allergy to the sun can also appear while on vacation in the forest, in a field, in hot countries, after swimming in a pool, or after a long stay in the sun. For some, these are just small pigment spots that appear scattered and do not decorate anyone, but for others it is more serious. Some people develop white spots on their face, which also cause a lot of emotions.

Allergies often occur in children, including infants. Their immunity has not yet gained strength or after illness.

The causes of skin reactions to sunlight lie in a combination of external and internal factors.

TO external reasons This includes the cosmetics we use. From perfume, medicinal creams (for muscle pain, skin problems, sunburns), the use of certain medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight. These are, first of all, antimicrobial drugs and diuretics. Of course, what matters is how much and how long we are exposed to the sun.

Therefore, you must carefully read the instructions - if they indicate that the product has a side effect such as photodermatitis, then during treatment you should not spend time in the sun, visit a solarium, and you need to cover your skin as much as possible when going outside.

If you use cosmetics, look carefully to see if they contain salicylic and boric acid, essential oils, or mercury preparations. Even lipstick that contains eosin can have a detrimental effect on the situation as a whole.

Pollen from flowering plants can also cause allergies. Also, a combination of sun and pool can give such a picture, as already mentioned in the article.

TO internal reasons Allergies to the sun include diseases of the liver, intestines, and disruptions in the body’s immune system.

Any allergy is provoked by factors such as decreased immunity, lack of vitamins, hidden diseases, and metabolic disorders in the body. Therefore, it is very important to pay attention to your health in general.

In these cases, it is a good idea to follow a diet and conduct a course of liver cleansing so that such reactions begin to subside.

The risk group of people who are prone to such allergies to the sun:

• Blondes and people with light skin.
• Small children.
• Pregnant women.
• Those people who really like to visit the solarium.
• Who did cosmetic procedures the day before, such as tattooing, chemical peeling.

Photosensitizers.

In addition, there are special substances - photosensitizers that can provoke such a reaction in the body. These include all citrus fruits. Therefore, do not include oranges, tangerines, lemons in your diet if you are going to the beach. You need to know that the more active the sun, the more unpredictable the reaction even to such simple products can be. See if bergamot oil or citrus oil is in your cosmetics that you use daily. They can cause such allergies.

You should also pay attention to the medications you are taking. The following drugs are dangerous:

• Aspirin.
• Antibiotics.
• Medicines you take to treat and maintain your cardiovascular system.
• Diuretics.
• Antidepressants.
• Oral contraceptives with high estrogen content.

If you are going on vacation, ask your doctor all the questions the day before and consult him to see if they provoke sun allergies.

Allergy to the sun. Prevention. Treatment.

• Be very careful with sunbathing. 20 minutes in the sun is the best time.
• Before going to the beach, do not use decorative cosmetics or perfume.
• Use sunscreens with high protection.
• Do not use cosmetics containing fragrances. They can cause age spots to appear.
• Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going out into the sun. Often we swim, get out of the water and only then remember about them. For photodermatitis, this time is enough to manifest itself.
• When leaving the water, do not wipe yourself dry. This will help not dry out the skin; on the other hand, it will remove drops of water, which, like lenses, increase the impact of sunlight on the skin.
• Relax in the shade once you've had your swim.
• See your doctor. You may need antihistamines. I'm not a supporter of chemistry, but sometimes the body can't cope on its own. And it is best to start taking them two days before departure on a trip.
• For those who have problems with the sun, it is best to sunbathe before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. And it is better to sunbathe under an awning or in the shade.
• If you have a severe allergy, wear long sleeves and pants to protect the affected areas from the sun. Be sure to wear hats on the beach.
• At the first symptoms of an allergy, it is imperative to take action. It is best to consult a doctor if this is your first time and there is nothing proven in your first aid kit. Don't delay your visit to the doctor. Allergies are a very insidious thing!

Treatment of sun allergy with mild to moderate severity takes 7-10 days. In more severe cases – up to several weeks.

In addition to the medications your doctor will prescribe, cucumber juice, cabbage leaves, and raw potatoes can help with severe itching. Cabbage leaves are simply applied in pure form to the affected areas. Squeeze the mass out of the cucumber (remove the skin and grate it), spread it on gauze and apply it to the affected areas. Keep the compress for half an hour. After this, do not wash the skin. The cucumber film on the skin will protect from sun rays. And you can simply wipe your face and body with cucumber juice.

In addition, a solution of baking soda can help with itchy skin and herbal baths with chamomile and string. In severe cases, the doctor prescribes hormonal ointments.

What foods should you include in your diet to avoid an allergic reaction to the sun?

• Include foods that are rich in vitamins C, B and E and antioxidants in your diet. All fresh fruits and berries are very healthy. Blueberries, pomegranate, currants, cocoa, green tea and many others.
• Drink plenty of clean water. This will help the body remove toxins. But categorically exclude carbonated drinks, juices and especially alcohol.
• On vacation, be very careful with exotic cuisine. If you have increased sensitivity to the sun, do not experiment with it, at least in the very first days. Give your body a little time to readjust.

My experience in treating allergies. Tablets, ointments, preparations for sun allergies.

I’ll tell you about myself how I learned to save myself from sun allergies. Having suffered through several beach seasons, I turned to a dermatologist before leaving. She told me about her problems. He gave me a lot of recommendations. The most effective of them and tested precisely by experience, which suited me personally, turned out to be quite simple: two to three days before departure, start taking the drug “Erius”, 1 tablet once a day. During the first three to five days of vacation, I continue to take it.

Be sure to take a shower immediately after the sea. I only sunbathe in the shade. And I always take La-Cri cream and Travogen cream with me. These are natural creams that can also be used by children. I keep smiling about this. I say that my skin is exactly like that of a baby. Just read the ingredients of the cream. If you are not allergic to these components, then I highly recommend paying attention to these creams. As soon as redness or inflammation begins somewhere, I immediately use them. Several beach seasons have already passed and it has become very comfortable. Of course, I follow all the recommendations described above.

irinazaytseva.ru

Antihistamines used

Several main methods are used in the treatment of allergies:

• elimination of the allergen;
• immunotherapy;
• drug therapy.

The essence of immunotherapy is to use the allergen itself to treat. Medical treatment is carried out under the strict supervision of a specialist, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.

The spectrum of antihistamine effects on the body is as follows:

• reduce the inflammatory process;
• relieve exacerbations of any complexity;
• block the spread of infection if the skin is damaged;
• relieve skin redness, swelling, peeling and itching.

In medicine, antihistamines are divided into 3 generations. The first includes drugs that relieve allergic manifestations, but have an excessive sedative effect. Then drugs were developed without a clear sedative effect, but had a negative effect on cardiac function.

Drug manufacturers have created modern unique antihistamines, which are classified as third generation. They do not cause drowsiness and are not toxic to the heart and blood vessels.

Third generation drugs

Drugs in this category are in particular demand due to the lack of sedation. They practically do not cause drowsiness and thus occupy a leading position among other popular means. Cardiotoxic effects from them are also minimized.

The products relieve allergic reactions and do not negatively affect the nervous system. In reception, most of them are indicated even for children from the age of two. They are also recommended for people whose work requires increased concentration.

Metabolites representing 3rd generation antihistamines may have a side effect such as drowsiness. This occurs in the presence of hypersensitivity to the components of the drugs or in the process of chronic fatigue.

New Generation:

• acelastine;
• cetirizine;
• ebastine;
• loratadine;
• astemizole;
• acrivastine.

An important advantage of the drugs presented in this group is based on long-term and safe use. This is especially important for people suffering from allergic reactions of various types.

Why you should choose third generation drugs:

1. Such drugs do not interfere with mental activity and physical activity.
2. Daily use is not tied to food intake and symptoms are relieved quite quickly.
3. Most of these medications have an effect on the body for two days.

To prevent problems in the liver, you need to take medications separately from antibiotics, antifungals and antidepressants. Do not take antihistamine medications with citrus fruit juice.

Acelastine is available in the form of eye drops and nasal spray. Signs of the disease begin to subside within 20 minutes. There were no side effects from Acelastine. Each of the listed remedies neutralizes the signs of allergies and does not affect the patient’s body.

The absence of drowsiness allows them to be used for any type of activity. Almost any of the drugs helps relieve the condition during an asthma attack.

Which medicine does not cause drowsiness?

These medications are found to be very effective in relieving allergy symptoms. Doctors prescribe them for use by both adults and children.

Features of such drugs:

• do not affect mental and physical activity;
• are not addictive;
• are not adsorbed from food;
• act almost instantly;
• The therapeutic effect is quite long-lasting.

However, such allergy treatment is strictly contraindicated for people with diseases of the cardiovascular system. Another important condition is compliance with control when taken together with other medications.

It is important to know that non-sedative drugs should not be used to relieve clinical symptoms in parallel with macrolides, antifungals and antidepressants.

Health problems often arise in people after taking second-generation antihistamines. Usually problems arise associated with pathological processes in the liver.

List of funds:

1. Claritin can be used by children from the age of two. Prescribed for various problems associated with a negative skin reaction to certain irritants. Indicated for urticaria, rhinitis, including seasonal.
2. "Gistalong" is unique in that it is compatible with alcoholic drinks and does not cause drowsiness at all. The effect of the drug lasts about three weeks. Recommended for patients with chronic allergies.
3. "Trexil" is especially popular in the treatment of acute diseases. Contraindicated for people with cardiac problems. Does not affect the functioning of the nervous system.
4. "Fenistil" is the best antihistamine medicine for the younger generation. Doctors often prescribe it even to newborn children. The effect after administration is long-lasting, often one dose is enough.
5. “Semprex” can be used in treatment from the age of 12. Relieves symptoms of urticaria, dermatitis, allergic eczema. Produced in capsules, dispensing in pharmacies is allowed without a doctor's prescription.

The best representative

In any medical institution, during diagnosis, the causes and other nuances of the disease are identified. This allows the attending physician to choose the most suitable drugs for high-quality and quick treatment of allergies.

An unpleasant diagnosis requires individual selection of pharmaceuticals:

1. Xyzal is recognized as one of the best antihistamines. It prevents the activation of histamines and relieves inflammation on the skin. Neutralizing allergies, this fourth generation remedy uniquely improves metabolism. Perfectly absorbed into the skin, it begins to act within two hours. The uniqueness of Xizal is also that when taken for dermatitis in early childhood, it prevents the development of such problems in the future. Tablets are prescribed for adults; children are advised to take syrup or suspension.
2. "Teflast" takes a worthy place in patient reviews. As a result of clinical studies, its harmlessness to the human body has been proven. Reduces absolutely any pathological processes on the skin, but is not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Available in tablet form.
3. Desloratadine is effective in the clinical treatment of allergic problems from the first year of life. Produced in tablets and syrup. Absolute safety allows the drug to be sold in pharmacies without a prescription. The composition is similar to "Erius", only it is contraindicated during pregnancy. Experts advise taking such medications after consultation. After all, each of them has its own nuances in reception.

Useful video on the topic

Ointments used for this disease

A negative skin reaction to certain irritants may sometimes not be accompanied by any other complications.

In case of contact allergies, it is important to immediately eliminate the irritant and treat the affected areas.

1. “Diphenhydramine ointment” helps eliminate itching and irritation. It is designed to directly block inflammation and swelling. For optimal results, the product should consist of two percent diphenhydramine.
2. "Fenistil gel" is in particular demand for the treatment of allergic manifestations in childhood. The special formula of the gel allows you to quickly relieve signs of eczema, dermatosis, and urticaria.
3. "Hydrocortisone" is intended to provide first aid for severe pathologies. The hormonal composition may cause some side effects, so it is important to consult a doctor. An overdose of the drug affects your well-being.
4. "Gistan" helps relieve discomfort and is the best remedy for the regeneration of diseased skin. Heals wounds and prevents the inflammatory process.
5. Zyrtec is a non-sedating drug and is recommended for daily use. Very easy to apply and absolutely safe even for hypersensitive skin.
6. "Psilo-Balm" is recognized as one of the leading drugs - antihistamines for topical use. Indicated for immediate relief of various irritations, including after bites of various insects. Recommended during acute inflammation. However, to avoid complications, you should follow the dosage and act according to the instructions.

Features of the use of products for allergic reactions to the sun

You should never ignore the fact that it is important to follow the allergist’s doctor’s prescriptions regarding taking the drug in strict dosage.

Self-administration of medications or consultation with a pharmacy worker on this issue often provokes significant problems in the future.

Allergy to the sun very often worsens in the spring and summer. This especially happens in April - May. The skin of exposed areas of the body, face and neck are affected. An inadequate response to ultraviolet rays is aggravated by taking antibiotics, antidepressants, nutritional supplements and other medications.


Allergists recommend using antihistamine ointments and gels for this disease. Taking tablets or suspensions is necessary when phytodermatitis is accompanied by another type of allergy.

Before using hormonal ointments or creams, it is important to undergo an examination and tests. Moreover, they are addictive.

The general opinion of those who have used these products

When asked which drugs are better, patients answer: new generation drugs. Their uniqueness is that they are not metabolized in the body. The results after taking are long-lasting. They do not affect the functioning of the liver and cardiac system.

The fact that such medications are suitable for almost everyone, due to minimal side effects, also has a positive effect on the choice.

Tablets or syrups are preferred by people suffering from chronic allergies. Minor or rare skin lesions, without relapses, can be treated quite effectively with the simplest ointments or gels. Non-hormonal drugs without sedation are in greatest demand.

The complex course of an allergy often forces you to undergo a course of therapy in a medical facility. It is important to follow a diet and rest schedule. An undoubted advantage, according to patients, is eliminating the allergen or identifying the causes.

Then, after the necessary diagnosis, the most suitable drug is selected. It is correct to take the medications systematically and in appropriate dosages.

Tablets, drops, ointments, gels

Uncomplicated skin allergies, in most cases, do not require taking tablets or drops. It is enough to apply a special ointment to the affected areas several times a day and the manifestations of irritation will go away.

Quite easy to prescribe: Diphenhydramine, Fenistil and Diazolin. These tablets help to quickly relieve an attack, and in combination with cream they are very effective.

Modern pharmacological science has stepped far forward compared to the medicine of past years. Most antiallergic drugs have a combined effect on the patient's body. Therefore, specialists take the prescription of such drugs very seriously.

Doctors strongly recommend not to self-medicate, but to listen carefully to the advice of doctors. After all, skin itching, redness and other similar symptoms appear not only with allergies, but also with a number of other complex diseases. And such pathologies require a different approach to treatment.

feedmed.ru

Types of sun allergies

Solar injury

This type of skin reaction is very common. Actually, it refers not to allergic, but to traumatic disorders. You don't have to be allergic to get this disease. It often occurs in people who do not adhere to the correct approach to organizing their stay in direct sunlight. A long stay under open rays, in the hour period from 11:00 to 16:00, is dangerous for any person. Especially if they are accompanied by immersion in water, small droplets of which act like a lens, amplifying the radiation.

Toxic reactions

In this case, the signs of sun allergy are mediated by the influence of certain substances that increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Certain plants, medications and a number of other factors can provoke increased skin sensitivity.

Photodermatitis

Actually, this is an allergy to the sun. In this case, the occurrence of allergic reactions on the skin is directly related to the work of the immune system, which is hostile to substances formed in the skin tissue under the influence of sunlight.

Risk groups include:

• people suffering from endocrine diseases;
• people suffering from kidney and liver diseases;
• women who are pregnant;
• people with light skin type;
• persons who have a family history of allergies;
• children under 6 years old.

Symptoms of sun allergy

Photodermatitis is a skin disease characterized by corresponding manifestations. The speed of development of symptoms can vary from several tens of minutes to several days.

Areas of the skin, after contact with ultraviolet radiation, become reddish, rashes and areas of abscesses form on them. The epidermis on the extremities acquires a rough texture, and itching and severe burning may occur in areas where an allergic reaction occurs. The skin becomes rough and local bleeding may occur.

The face of a patient with photodermatitis may be strewn with white spots that appear due to a malfunction in the pigmentation processes. Prolonged exposure to intense ultraviolet radiation causes the body to spend all its energy producing special pigments that lead to darkening of the skin. Such emergency activity results in the body being subjected to intense stress.

In most cases, after just a few hours in direct sunlight, people with a tendency to this disease begin to experience its first manifestations. Symptoms often include hives, which appear as red spots that are slightly raised and warm to the touch. Blisters filled with clear liquid may also appear at the site of contact. This is a sure sign that a person has a sunburn.

Causes of sun allergies

• Antibacterial components of hygiene products;
• Essential oils, which are often used in the production of cosmetics and perfumes;
• Piercings and tattoos can increase skin sensitivity in the areas where they are applied;
• Benzophenones and para-aminobenzoic acid, which are often found in sunscreens, increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight in some people;
• Light skin type;
• Pregnancy and children under 6 years of age.

Sun allergy medicine

Treatment of photodermatitis

The main ways that modern medicine offers to avoid sun allergies are:

• Removal of local symptoms of photodermatitis, on the surface of the epidermis with special ointments, creams and gels
• General treatment with medications in the form of tablets and injections
• Preventive measures

Naturally, the last way is the most effective and safe. To avoid this disease, it will be enough just to follow a few rules: eliminate the factors that provoke allergies to the sun and not be in direct sunlight during the daytime. In most people, the epidermis reacts only to extremely intense solar radiation, so following these simple instructions will allow you to avoid problems caused by this most unpleasant disorder.

Local therapy for sun allergy

This type of therapy for photodermatitis is of great importance, since the main symptoms of this disease are localized on the skin. In order to eliminate these manifestations, special medications are used in the form of creams, ointments and gels for application to the skin. Their use allows you to relieve swelling, speed up the process of regeneration of damaged surfaces, eliminate scratching, and relieve skin irritation.

Hormonal medications

These drugs contain the hormone cortisol or its analogues, which is why they are called hormonal. Medicines in this group are highly effective in treating skin manifestations of allergies. The large number of possible side effects makes you more careful about their use.

Correct use of hormonal ointments:

• hormonal medications for external use can be used only if the allergic nature of skin manifestations is confirmed;
• these remedies are not used as preventatives and are intended only to eliminate existing symptoms;
• Hormonal ointments are divided according to their strength. The choice of ointment should take into account the severity of allergic manifestations;
• if the child is less than six months old, then the use of fluoride-containing ointments is unacceptable;
• For long-acting ointments, it is advisable to prefer a form with a short therapeutic effect;
• at the same time, corticosteroid medications are not applied to more than 20% of the skin;
• after a week, the effect of treatment must be expressed, otherwise it is subject to change;
• Use only on clean skin.

Side effects are an extremely pressing topic when using this type of medication. Often, they appear in case of improper use, which is allowed by patients when using it independently. Also, the intensity and degree of risk of actual side effects directly depends on the strength of the hormonal medication. The most powerful ointments based on category 4 corticosteroids.

Local immunity of the skin often becomes a victim of drug therapy of hormonal origin. It is due to the suppression of local immunity that the skin allergic reaction is eliminated. Suppression of local immunity is fraught with the appearance of skin infections that were in an inactive form.

Classification of hormonal ointments used to treat sun allergies:

For allergies to the sun, hormonal ointments are prescribed in the following cases:

• allergic processes on the surface of the skin of an acute nature (solar urticaria, dermatitis);
• treatment with drugs of a weaker class does not bring the desired effect;
• there are reasonable concerns about the development of eczema;
• the disease has the nature of a relapse;
• complications such as neurodermatitis.

Side effects of hormonal ointments

In case of sun allergy, which has a skin manifestation, the frequent use of hormonal ointments leads to the fact that the issue of side effects is very acute. Modern therapeutic practice using hormonal ointments for photodermatitis has optimal treatment regimens that avoid side effects. Often, negative effects on health occur in case of independent use.

However, it is impossible to completely avoid the risk of side effects from the drug! When using hormonal medications, in ointment form, they include the following:

• irritation and itching at the sites of application;
• exacerbation of local fungal or viral infection;
• the appearance of boils;
• acne;
• atrophic skin changes;
• roughening of the skin.

When using these medications, it is worth considering that the degree of their activity in eliminating skin manifestations of allergies is directly proportional to the degree of their activity. The more powerful the effect they have, the more pronounced their side effects.

Antihistamine ointments for sun allergies

Local antihistamines contain substances that prevent the effects of histamine on skin cells. When the hormone histamine is released under the influence of allergens, allergy symptoms develop. This provokes the appearance of rashes, itching, and swelling. The advantage of antihistamines in the form of ointments helps eliminate skin manifestations of allergies with minimal risk of developing common side effects. These include those side effects that affect the entire body.

Effects of antihistamine ointments:

• reduce itching, irritation and dryness of the skin;
• contribute to the narrowing of local blood vessels, which expand under the influence of histamine;
• elimination of symptoms of dermatitis and urticaria;
• promotes hydration;
• accelerates skin healing;
• development of the therapeutic effect from 15 to 30 minutes.

Healing and anti-inflammatory drugs

When treating sun allergies, these drugs can also be used. In this case, they do not affect the mechanisms of allergic reactions, but the specific symptoms that appear with an allergy to the sun: inflammatory processes, dry skin, local irritation, pain.

Nurofen (ointment) is a medicine whose main active ingredient is an anti-inflammatory drug based on ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a drug that does not belong to the class of steroid hormones. In addition, the use of ibuprofen-based ointment can relieve pain that often accompanies skin manifestations of photodermatitis. At the same time, there is no risk of damage to the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, which is present when using ibuprofen in tablet form.

Diclofenac (ointment) is a medicine that belongs to the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Active ingredient: diclofenac sodium. Its action is based on suppressing the production of prostaglanid proteins. The use of diclofenac allows you to relieve skin swelling, pain, irritation, and also relieves local fever in areas of an allergic reaction. For urticaria, bronchial asthma, as well as in the case of peptic ulcers, this remedy is not used.

Bepantent (panthenol) is a safe drug that is based on the action of a derivative of vitamin B. Going through a series of biological transformations inside the skin, the active substance of the drug is converted into dexpanthenol. It takes part in the regeneration of skin cells. Its use is relevant for sun allergies, both in the case of direct allergic reactions and in the case of sunburn. Medicines based on panthenol promote the healing of the skin, as well as their hydration.

Sun allergy pills

Medicines in the form of tablets for sun allergies may also be applicable in some cases. This happens at the discretion of the doctor. Antihistamines are drugs that block type 1 histamine receptors. They are located on the surface of the skin. Upon contact with them, skin manifestations of photodermatitis occur. Medicines containing antihistamines can eliminate the formation of edema, reduce skin itching, and reduce the dilation of blood vessels.

Diphenhydramine is one of the first antihistamines to hit the market. It effectively eliminates skin manifestations of allergies, reduces itching and inflammation. However, this drug has a number of side effects: it dries out the mucous membrane, retains urine, and also causes inhibition of the central nervous system. The latter, during therapy with diphenhydramine, is most acute. Under its influence, drowsiness and fatigue develop, and the thought process slows down. One of the main advantages of this medicine is its low cost.

Diazolin is also a very outdated drug. The main advantage is the low cost, as well as the low probability of developing an inhibitory effect. A significant disadvantage of this drug is the ability of the active substance to irritate the mucous membranes of the stomach in some patients. For this reason, it is not used in the treatment of patients who have ulcerative and gastritis diseases.

Suprastin is an effective drug that is most often used in the treatment of allergic diseases. In particular, this also applies to sun allergies. It has a rapid development of a therapeutic effect, which decreases just as quickly. The drug does not have a cumulative effect, which is why it is often used for long-term therapy.

Sun allergy is a disease accompanied by an inflammatory process on the skin that occurs under the influence of sunlight. The presented pathology is considered the most common type of actinic dermatitis. If you do not start therapeutic measures in time, this can lead to the disease progressing to the chronic stage or eczema. For this reason, all doctors try to detect pathology in a timely manner and develop the most effective treatment regimen.

Risk factors

Many experts claim that the sun's rays act as an allergen. But it is not so. Allergy to the sun occurs when photosensitizers influence the human body. These are components that increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation. Under the influence of these rays, free radicals are released, which come into contact with proteins. The result of this process is the formation of new compounds. The newly formed substances serve as antigens leading to an allergic reaction.

Taking into account the type of photosensitizers, the following causes of sun allergies are distinguished:

• use of external medications;
• exposure to household chemicals on the skin;
• a certain group of cosmetics;
• The causes of allergies from the sun may be hidden in the influence of plant juices: hogweed, some meadow grasses.

In addition, the reasons contributing to sun allergies may be the accumulation of specific components in the body. The main reasons for this accumulation are the following:

• metabolic disorders: diabetes, excess weight;
• diseases of organs and systems whose work is reduced to removing toxic substances from the body: cirrhosis of the liver, chronic hepatitis, insufficient kidney function, constipation;
• systemic drug therapy.

Allergy to the sun is a disease that affects adults most of all with a light skin tone and a hereditary predisposition. The risk group is completed by:

• women during pregnancy;
• people who frequently visit the solarium.

How does the disease manifest itself?

It happens that an allergy to the sun appears after a short exposure to the sun's rays. Sometimes signs of pathology make themselves felt after visiting a solarium. During this procedure, there is a certain effect on the skin of UV radiation.

Let's take a closer look at the symptoms of sun allergy:

1. Swelling and redness occur in areas of the skin exposed to sunlight. If the case is advanced, then the occurrence of Quincke's edema is possible. This redness is accompanied by severe burning and itching.
2. Multiple rashes form on a person’s body, which resemble the rash of hives. In the future, these rashes can affect those skin areas that were not exposed to the influence.
3. Allergy to the sun is accompanied by a general deterioration in health, the formation of conjunctivitis or cheilitis.

If the disease proceeds under normal conditions, the rash disappears on its own within 3 weeks. With repeated exposure to sunlight, it occurs again. If sun allergy is not treated in time, it transforms into a chronic phase, and the presented symptoms are complemented by dryness and infiltration of the skin, increased pattern, and the formation of spider veins.

Types of photodermatitis

The negative influence of the sun's rays contributes to the occurrence of various unnatural reactions in humans, which are called photosensitivity. There are the following types of sun allergies:

1. Phototraumatic reactions are a pathological process that forms after prolonged exposure to the sun. It happens that an allergic reaction occurs even in a completely healthy person during many hours of intense exposure to UV rays.
2. Phototoxic reactions are a type of allergy from the sun, the manifestation of which is the formation of a sunburn. The person experiences swelling, redness, blistering and erythema. This process is facilitated by taking certain medications, herbs, and products that contain photosensitizers.
3. Photoallergic reactions are a type of sun allergy that occurs in those people whose bodies, for specific reasons, do not accept UV rays. Their skin and mucous membranes perceive the sun's rays as a foreign or hostile external influence. This pathology occurs when immune disorders occur. Manifests itself in the form of papules, oozing, vesicles and lichenification of the skin. The resulting rash has an enhanced pattern, thickening of the skin and impaired pigmentation. The skin becomes rough and furrowed to the touch.

Diagnostics

Preliminary diagnosis includes interviewing the patient and external examination. To determine the type of allergen, the doctor prescribes application tests to the patient. To detect the endogenous causes of sun allergies, the doctor will prescribe the following studies to the patient:

• Zimnitsky tests;
• biochemical analysis of urine and blood;
• CT and ultrasound of the kidneys;
• Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity;
• hormone analysis;
• excretory urography.

When studying sun allergies, a distinction is made between diseases such as:

• lichen;
• sunburn;
• erysipelas;
• atopic, allergic, contact, radiation dermatitis;
• superficial form of SLE.

Effective treatment

What to do to get rid of photodermatitis? Only an experienced dermatologist can answer this question. Typically, treatment for sun allergies includes the following:

1. Relief of the root cause, limiting contact with photosensitizing components.
2. Use of medications.
3. Protective measures against UV radiation.

If there are indications, then the presented list is added by other procedures. Today it is possible to cure sun allergies, but therapy must take a comprehensive approach. Sun allergy tablets, ointments and creams have an anti-inflammatory effect.

External means

It is impossible to find one effective ointment that would eliminate sun allergies. Today doctors suggest treating the disease with the following external medications:

• Fluorocort (triamcinolone cream or glucocorticoid ointment);
• Betamethasone (betamethasone-based corticosteroid cream);
• Nurofen (gel, the active ingredient is ibuprofen, has an anti-inflammatory effect);
• Diclofenac (gel based on diclofenac sodium, relieves inflammation);
• Zinc paste (a medicine whose active component is zinc oxide, helps eliminate inflammation).

All described external agents have certain contraindications and side effects. For this reason, they should be used only after receiving confirmation from a dermatologist.

Sun allergy medications

What else needs to be done to make sun allergies disappear? In addition to ointments and creams, it is advisable to use antihistamines that help relieve itching and redness and relieve inflammation (Aspirin, Nimesil). The list of antihistamines will be supplemented by Alerzin, Cetirizine, and Suprastin.

If there is a tendency to an allergic reaction to drugs, then taking Aspirin should be avoided. The reason is that this action of this medicine is aimed at thinning the blood, and with weak vessel walls this contributes to increased rash.

Therapy for photodermatitis in young patients

If a child has an allergy to the sun, then the drugs used to eliminate it should always be at hand. No matter where you go, to the beach, to the store or anywhere else, you should always carry them with you. A disease such as sun allergy in children should be prevented in advance. If this cannot be avoided, then it is necessary to protect the child from further exposure to the sun. If there are no aid stations or medications nearby, you first need to cover the injured part of the body with a damp cloth.

When erythema occurs in a child, you should use talkers, wet lotions, and creams. As a base, it is better to use astringents (2% tannin solution, 0.25% silver solution) and pain relievers (2% anesthesin solution), with which you need to make cold compresses.

It is not recommended to treat a child with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as their effect increases photosensitivity.

The resulting vesicles can be eliminated using hormonal ointments such as Afloderm, Lokoid, Elokom. For children, it is recommended to use vitamin therapy (vitamins B, C, PP), antioxidants (tocopherol acetate, alpha-tocopherol, methionine). An excellent effect is achieved when using antihistamine treatment. Here, taking into account the age of the child, Tavegil and Loratadine are prescribed.

Sun allergy is an unpleasant disease that can affect both adults and children. Its main manifestations are itching, rashes and swelling of the skin. All allergy symptoms can be eliminated using both external medications and tablets. All therapeutic activities are carried out at home, but under the supervision of a doctor.

Is everything in the article correct from a medical point of view?

Answer only if you have proven medical knowledge

Diseases with similar symptoms:

Idiopathic urticaria is an allergic skin disease that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age and ethnicity. A large number of both pathological and physiological predisposing factors can cause the development of such a disease. A provocateur may be an insect bite, excessively high or low temperatures, an overdose of medications, or intolerance to a particular food product.