2024-09-09 06:00:08
Photosensitivity caused by lupus is present in up to 75% of cases. Here we teach you how to deal with it day by day.
Last update: September 9, 2024
Photosensitivity caused by lupus is one of the most common clinical cutaneous manifestations of the disease. People with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) should be careful about exposure to sunlight and artificial light.
Symptoms experienced by increased photosensitivity include the following:
Fever. Sunburn. Pain and inflammation in the joints. Worsening fatigue and generalized weakness.
However, by following a few tips, it is possible to live with SLE and counteract increased sensitivity to light.
What is LES?
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a autoimmune disease produced by antibodies that attack the body’s own cells. It usually appears between the second and fourth decades of life and is more common in women.
It may have generalized (systemic) symptoms or be only cutaneous (in the cutaneous lupus erythematosus). Acute flare-ups or attacks, products of increased inflammatory activity, include skin changes, muscle and joint pain, weight loss, fever and fatigue.
The intensity and duration of each epidemic are very particular. There is usually long-term multi-organ involvement. Including the kidneys, heart, lungs, central nervous system and the skin itself.
Effect of photosensitivity caused by lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus and cutaneous lupus erythematosus are affected by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, whether from the sun or artificial light. This is called photosensitivity and can manifest itself in different ways.
In patients with lupus, UV radiation is linked to the presentation of clinical manifestations on the skin. Up to 75% of patients experience photosensitivity caused by systemic lupus erythematosus. This value can reach almost 99% in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
The penetration of UV rays into the epidermis and dermis causes DNA modifications. More free radicals are produced and oxidation reactions occur in the cells of the immune system. As well as in the endothelium of blood vessels.
This autoimmune attack results in the release of inflammatory mediators. Cellular apoptosis (programmed cell death) then follows, potentially triggering an epidemic.
Photosensitivity caused by lupus may appear as a rash and generalized itching.
Tips for Dealing with Photosensitivity Caused by Lupus
Lupus photosensitivity will appear at some point. This is why it is important that when living with this disease, the person is able to put in place protective measures on a daily basis. Here are the most important ones.
1. Always use sunscreen
People with photosensitivity caused by lupus should use sunscreen at all times. Even when there is no sun. The commercial options are numerous and include moisturizers with sun protection, sprays, makeup powders, as well as body or face creams. Sunscreen should be applied even if you are indoors.
It is recommended to reapply every 2 hours. If there is direct exposure to the sun due to the beach for example, the time should be reduced to 1 hour.
You should purchase the highest sun protection factor (SPF) available. If you are outdoors, an SPF of 70 is recommended.
It is important that sunscreen is applied generously. And with more emphasis on the neck, forehead, face, behind the ears, shoulders, back of the arms and upper back.
2. Include clothes with sun protection factor in the wardrobe
For cases of photosensitivity caused by lupus, it is recommended to use fabrics with a sun protection factor greater than 50. There are all kinds of clothing with UV protection, including swimwear.
Although not all clothing offers the same protection, you should opt for fabrics with a high fabric density. In case of walks on the beach or for long car journeys, favor long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Sunglasses should be part of the outfit, even when driving the car. Photosensitivity of lupus also affects the eyes and can cause damage around and inside the eyeball.
3. Take care of UV rays indoors
It is recommended to keep curtains drawn and blinds closed. Lights should always be dimmed or use low wattage bulbs.
UV rays from artificial light are just as harmful as those from the sun. Their effect on the skin cannot therefore be underestimated. THE light bulbs at home should have the lowest intensity possible, like LED lights. Fluorescent or halogen bulbs are not optimal.
There are blinds that block ultraviolet rays. Likewise, there are ways to tint home windows to block some sunlight penetration.
4. In photosensitivity caused by lupus, exposure time should be limited
In case of photosensitivity caused by lupus, just 15 to 30 minutes of sunlight a day is enough to produce the necessary amount of vitamin D. In addition, it is recommended to avoid hours when the sun’s rays strike with greater intensity.
The ideal times to safely expose yourself to the sun are in the morning (between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.) as well as in the evening (after 6 p.m.). Other intervals increase the risk of skin damage.
5. Be careful with medications consumed
Some medications can make photosensitivity caused by lupus worse. Among them, according to scientific studiesthere is a group which constitutes the most frequent:
Antibiotics: such as doxycycline and tetracycline.Analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications: such as naproxen and piroxicam.Antihypertensives: such as loop diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.Immunosuppressants: like methotrexate. This, in particular, is one of the most prescribed medications for lupus.
It is always best to consult a professional if we notice any changes in the skin at the start of a new treatment. It will be possible to assess whether it is appropriate to withdraw the active ingredient or change the treatment to another similar one.
Taking care of photosensitivity due to lupus starts with knowledge
Patients who suffer from photosensitivity caused by lupus should be up front with their loved ones, clarifying the need for protection. Others must include certain measures that, although they seem extreme, are essential.
Being careful when exposing yourself to any type of light, whether solar or artificial, makes a difference.
Acute outbreaks of the disease are very painful and bothersome. Reducing them through adequate light protection will improve quality of life. And it should involve friends and family.
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