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Even if you know your UVA from your UVB. Even if you would never dream of venturing near a sunny window without applying your favorite sun protection. Even if you know you're supposed to use a full shot-glass full of sunscreen every time you apply it, and that would be often on a hot Florida day....
....Do you know that your prescription medication could be setting you up for sun damage?
Dr. Jeffrey Dover, president-elect of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, thinks you may not, and given the very long list of prescription drugs and over-the-counter products that can increase sun sensitivity, he's probably right.
These include:
Antianxiety drugs, antibiotics such as sulfa drugs, antidepressants, heart drugs such as thiazide diuretics, antihyperglycemics, antipsychotics, chemotherapy drugs, antifungal drugs, acne medications, skin preparations, even some fragrances.
Fortunately, this doesn't mean you have to barricade yourself in the house with the shades drawn. But you should:
* Read your prescription labels closely for information about sun sensitivity.
* Use sunscreen daily (which of course you're doing anyway, right?). And get the good stuff. Here's a full explanation from health writer Letitia Stein if you missed it the first time.
* Be sure to cover the back of the neck, ears and legs—areas vulnerable to skin cancer. Use lip balm with SPF.
* Stay inside during the peak midday hours of sunshine, and wear protective clothing including a hat with a big brim.
Charlotte Sutton, health and medicine writer
[Photo: Photos.com]
 Healthy living is a journey, and like most trips, it’s better with reliable directions, good friends and tasty snacks. Personal Best is a forum for people who care about health, harmony and beauty, and want to share what they’ve learned.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is produced by the editorial staff of the Times and is not tied to advertising. Nor is what you read here to be confused with actual medical advice. For that, you will need to see an actual medical doctor. E-mail us with feedback or story ideas. |
| Your cruise director is St. Petersburg Times Health and Medicine editor Charlotte Sutton, a Times journalist for 22 years. She goes to the gym as often as she can, mostly to support her chocolate and red wine habits. Times staff writer Irene Maher reported on health and medicine for more than 20 years at WFLA-Ch. 8. Now she writes a weekly column for the Times’ Thursday Pulse Page, and is never seen without her trusty water bottle. Richard Martin has been a reporter and editor at the Times since 2006. When he's not at work tackling issues such as health care, he's usually out running around - either training for his next marathon or shuttling his kids to baseball games and swim meets. Letitia Stein tries to practice what she writes as a health reporter, but confesses a terrible weakness for all things chocolate. Her alter ego goes by "Deal Diva" and blogs about shopping and fashion. |
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