You should never sunbathe if you are taking antibiotics, and here is the reason for this thinking. Excessive exposure to sunlight can lead to wrinkles and other skin damage, even cancer.
However, what many may not know is that taking certain medications can increase the effects of the sun.
Thus, some antibiotics can make people more sensitive to the sun, especially those with lighter skin and eyes.
Some drugs contain compounds that, when activated by UVA radiation, can damage cell membranes and, in some cases, DNA.
The consequences can be severe sunburn on exposed parts of the body.
In rare cases, medications can also cause an allergic reaction to sun exposure, causing a rash that can cover the whole body.
What is photosensitivity?
Some antibiotics in combination with sun exposure can lead to photosensitivity, ie sensitivity to ultraviolet rays.
Prolonged sun exposure may increase the risk of sunburn.
There are two types of photosensitivity: phototoxic and photoallergic.
Phototoxic reactions occur when a new chemical in our body interacts with UV rays.
The result is a skin rash that looks like severe sunburn, which usually develops within 24 hours of sun exposure.
Photoallergic reactions also occur as a side effect of some medications, but they can also occur due to chemicals found in cosmetics and sunscreens.
With this type of reaction, it usually takes a few days for a rash to develop after exposure to sunlight.
Symptoms of photosensitivity
Symptoms range from mild to severe. The most common symptom is a rash or sunburn.
The rash may or may not cause itching.
In some cases, sunburn can be so severe that blisters appear.
The amount of sun exposure required for the reaction varies greatly.
In some people, too little sun exposure can cause a rash or sunburn, and in some reactions, it may occur after prolonged exposure.
The best way to prevent photosensitivity symptoms is to limit the amount of time you spend in the sun.
People who are sensitive to light should always use sunscreen when outdoors.
Covering and protecting the skin can also prevent problems.
Wear hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts made of natural materials.
These simple tips can help protect your skin.
If you have health problems in the summer months that can be solved with the use of antibiotics, check with your doctor to see if you can stay in the sun.
In addition, read the instructions that came with the medicine in detail, which will clearly state whether it is important to avoid sun exposure as much as possible while taking this medicine to avoid potential reactions.
It is safest, if you already have such therapy in the summer months, to skip sunbathing and be careful for a few days after taking the therapy.
