[Jacqui]

Sun exposure and reactions

by Jacqui on Tue Aug 06, 2013 12:20 pm

I am finding low tolerance to sun exposure. Am two years out from a stem cell transplant, and doing well on 10mg of Revlimid daily. An hour in the sun yesterday, near the water, resulted in about two hours of heat stroke type symptoms at home. Rapid pulse, flushed face, weakness,
and G.I. upsets. Temperature outside was about 76 degrees F. Looks like any hoped for sailing or gardening may have to only happen under cloud-cover now ? I dimly remember once being told there was sun sensitivity associated with use of Revlimid, but can not now find that by web searching. Until this year, I hadn't regained the stamina for gardening and being near the water, post transplant. So hadn't tested the advisory. Good news, bad news. Now I have more energy, but can't seem to stay outdoors very long under direct sun. Any confirmation, observations, or suggestions ? Thank you. Jacqui in Bellingham, WA. (Where direct sun often isn't an issue.)

[NStewart]

Re: Sun exposure and reactions

by NStewart on Sat Aug 10, 2013 12:06 pm

Jacqui-
You have to be very careful about sun exposure. Hats, sun screen, clothing with sun resistance to it and not being in direct sun for extended periods of time are all really important. Also, be sure to stay well hydrated while in the sun no matter what the temperature is.
A month ago I went to a car wash about 5 pm and spent 15 minutes in the direct sun vacuuming the inside of my car. That night I noticed that I had gotten sunburned through my clothing. I was wearing a fairly thick t-shirt that day and thought that I was safe with my clothing and the lateness of the day. Obviously not.
Are you on any other medications that make you more susceptible to sun exposure? The blood pressure medications are culprits, as are many other medications.
Nancy in Phila