Bactrim why stay out of sun

You could end up with additional symptoms such as blisters and itchiness if you stay out unprotected. Of course, the best way to treat photosensitivity and prevent these side effects is with proper sun protection. That means covering up, avoiding being outside between 10 a. Another option for people who know they are going to be outside for long periods of time, but need to take a specific medication that increases their sun sensitivity, is to discuss alternatives with their doctor.

Skip to main content Search for a topic or drug. Shedding light on medications that increase sun sensitivity. By Sarene Leeds Jul. In these cases, destabilization of the drug structure results in an accumulation of free radicals and localized cell damage. This effect is more extensive than the superficial photoallergic reaction and leads to cell damage at multiple levels of the dermis and epidermis.

People complain of a hot sensation in the affected area and often display redness. In some, this symptom progresses to blistering or peeling. With prolonged use of the drug, some people actually develop skin thickening and skin darkening or a loss of pigment in the area.

Physical sunscreens such as those containing zinc or titanium oxide are preferred because chemical sunscreen may exacerbate the reaction. Cool, wet dressings may help soothe the irritated skin. Oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone may also provide symptomatic relief. In extreme cases, corticosteroid therapy with prednisone, an oral tablet, may be required.

An important lesson is that every patient should ask their health care provider questions when they receive a prescription for a new drug. Review of the written information provided by your pharmacist or other health care provider should be a careful one. Certain medications can make you more sensitive to heat and sunlight, so be cautious in the hot summer months, says Consumer Reports' chief medical adviser, Marvin M.

Lipman, M. For example, taking the antibiotic doxycycline and going out in the sun could increase your risk of developing painful or itchy rashes that lead to blistering. Other antibiotics can cause you to sunburn much more quickly. Some over-the-counter medications can also increase sun sensitivity, including ibuprofen Advil, Motrin IB, and generic.

And diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide combined with sun exposure can cause permanent dark patches on your skin. If you must venture out, be sure to cover up and use sunscreen. For more information, learn how to get the best sun protection and check our sunscreen buying guide and newly updated Ratings.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift. Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health , plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise , pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School. Recent Blog Articles. Why is topical vitamin C important for skin health?