We’ve got your back: Five things to know about your spine
JUN 27, 2022Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
Read More Additional information about 5 things to know about your spine | St. Joseph HealthWith the arrival of summer sunshine, people gravitate outdoors to soak up the vitamin D. But sun exposure can cause several undesirable effects, like wrinkles, cataracts, skin cancer, and sunburns. While it’s always important to take precautions against these consequences, it’s also crucial to be aware of what can increase your photosensitivity, including the medications you take.
“Some medications restrict blood vessels, weaken cell membranes, or damage DNA, all of which can increase a person’s sensitivity to the sun,” explains Nanette Dacumos, MD, family medicine physician at St. Joseph and Texas A&M Health Network on West Villa Maria. If you’re currently on one or more medications, take some time to learn how your prescriptions might affect you. The following drugs are especially well-known for increasing photosensitivity:
Antibiotics, particularly tetracyclines
Antidepressants
Antihistamines
Antifungal infections
Acne medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Oral contraceptives and estrogens
Cholesterol-lowering drugs and diuretics
Diabetes medications
According to the FDA, the two types of photosensitivity are photoallergy and phototoxicity. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation—both natural and artificial—can lead to photoallergy, which refers to an allergic reaction that may not occur until a few days after exposure. Phototoxicity refers to an immediate irritation to the skin hours after exposure. Apply sunscreen daily with a minimum SPF of 30 to protect your skin. Other methods of protection include:
Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses, to limit sun exposure.
Seeking shade during the sun’s strongest hours, which tend to be anywhere between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and can last as late as 4 p.m.
While it’s exciting to take a trip to the beach or spend the day lounging outdoors, don’t forget to protect your skin from sun damage. Your St. Joseph Health primary care physician can advise you on the effects of your medications and steps you can take to keep you and your family healthy all summer long. As part of the St. Joseph and Texas A&M Health Network, our team of doctors prioritizes your preventive health and will work with you to achieve your goals.
Sources:
GoodRx | Avoid the Sun If You Take These Drugs
U.S. FDA | The Sun and Your Medicine
Harvard Health Publishing | When medications make you sensitive to sunlight
Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
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