Hello Doctor,
Every time I stay in the sunlight for a bit, or even inside when it's warm, my body gets these little red bumps everywhere. They itch like crazy and hurt a lot. I just can't handle the itching anymore. What can I do to make it stop? And what's causing this? I've tried vitamins and other medicines from local doctors, but nothing seems to help. It's been bothering me for about 3 to 4 months now. Last year, it only happened in the winter, but now it's still happening as summer is coming, and I don't know how I'll manage when it gets hotter and I need to work.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen, your complete health partner. Here's what I can advise regarding your concern.
From what you've described, it seems like you might have a condition called polymorphic light eruption (PMLE), which is a type of sun allergy. PMLE is quite common and happens when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Symptoms include itchy, red bumps on your skin, sometimes even forming blisters. Unfortunately, there isn't a cure for PMLE, but there are ways to ease the discomfort.
My recommendation is to try avoiding direct sunlight between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun's rays are strongest. Wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can also help. Additionally, you might find relief with topical steroid creams or antihistamine medications. If your symptoms persist, it's a good idea to see a dermatologist who can give you personalized treatment options and rule out any other possible causes.
Remember to reapply sunscreen each hours, particularly if you are spending time outdoors. And if you experience severe symptoms or have trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
Thank you
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