During UV Safety Month the Lupus Alliance Would Like to Remind Those with Lupus how to Protect Themselves from Flares as they Enjoy the Summer Sun

During UV Safety Month the Lupus Alliance Would Like to Remind Those with Lupus how to Protect Themselves from Flares as they Enjoy the Summer Sun

Bellmore, NY (PRWEB) June 17, 2006

Abnormal photosensitivity is a major feature of both Systemic Lupus, which can affect any organ or system of the body and Discoid Lupus, which is mainly limited to the skin. According to the American College of Rheumatology, photosensitivity has been identified in one-half to three-fourths of people with systemic lupus and about 50 percent of those with Discoid Lupus. The reason for such sensitivity in people with lupus is still not completely known and is currently the focus of several research projects.

Sunlight can cause skin lesions, rashes, joint pains, and fatigue in someone who has lupus. The Lupus Alliance of LI/Q wants to make sure that during UV Safety month, everyone with lupus is aware of this danger and suggests the following sun precautions to anyone who has lupus;

    Avoid the sun during peak hours.

    Dress sensibly – most clothing absorbs or reflects UV rays, but white fabric and wet clothes do not offer much protection.

    Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 on all exposed skin, including the lips, even on cloudy days.

    If exposed to water, either through swimming or sweating, a water-resistant sunscreen should be used.

    Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

    Sit in the shade whenever possible.

Most everyone with lupus, except the most extreme cases, should be able to enjoy sunny days. By using a little common sense, as well as the above guidelines anyone with lupus should be able to go out and enjoy

the long days of summer. For more information about lupus and UV rays please call the Lupus Alliance of LI/Q at 1-800-850-9000.

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