What is solar urticaria?
Solar urticaria is a process that manifests with erythema and wheals within minutes after exposure to sunlight (usually after 10 minutes). It is classified into six different types, depending on the light wave that causes it.
What are the symptoms of solar urticaria?
The first symptom is pruritus (the urge to scratch), followed by erythema (reddening of the skin) and wheals (bumps resembling insect bites). These reactions usually disappear after about three hours. However, if exposure to the sun is very intense, the symptoms may become more pronounced, leading to headache, hypotension and even bronchospasm.
What are the causes of solar urticaria?
Solar urticaria is caused by an immediate hypersensitivity mechanism to an unknown allergen produced by sunlight.
Can solar urticaria be prevented?
It is important to know that, depending on your skin type, you may be more prone to suffer from solar urticaria, so you will have to take stricter measures. The most recommended are:
- Avoid exposure to the sun during midday.
- Have the first sun exposures progressive and preferably on the move.
- Wear a hat or cap
- Use sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply sunscreen every three to four hours and always after getting out of the water.
- If you are taking any medication, consult a specialist.
- Avoid perfumes before sun exposure
What is the treatment of solar urticaria?
The treatment will depend on each case, but the use of sun creams with a high protection factor is very important, as well as the use of appropriate clothing that prevents the sun’s rays from filtering through. The administration of medication for more advanced cases should be properly stipulated by a specialist.