Sun and water filled blisters

As5567

Each time I'm exposed to UV rays on a sunny day I get little water filled blisters on my hands and elbows. I suspect that it's something to do with my medications as I've never had this problem. I recently started on infliximab and very recently meth injections at 7.5mg. Does anyone on any of these medications get anything like this? I have been using factor 70! suncream that is used for winter sports, this doesn't stop the water filler blisters to appear. The reaction time typically takes around 5-8 hours after sun exposure so It often annoys me at night and keeps me up. I have also been avoiding the sun where possible, yesterday I was only in the sun for all of 5 mins walking into the doctors and back out and now I'm covered in blisters again today. The gp just told me its nothing and it will go away, he claims its just bites from bugs which I know is wrong. I will consult with my rhumey dept soon and see if they have any idea.

stickywicket

Those of us on meth have to be very careful with sunshine (see Dreamdaisy's thread lower down this page - 'meth and sunshine'). I think it's normally explained in the booklet's we're given in which to record our blood tests. I can get away with small amounts but others can't tolerate any. Just cover up and/or stay in the shade. Sunscreen isn't enough. You need sleeves if it's your arms.

dreamdaisy

These meds do cause troubles for some of us because they increase our photosensitivity and we have to take extra precautions with even weak sunlight (it's not at it's best yet but it is getting stronger). GPs don't know everything about the meds we take, or the side effects they can have, so for a better-informed response it may be a good idea to ring your rheumatology helpine. When I had meth rash I was advised to apply calamine lotion and take an anti-histamine or two but please check with someone-in-the-know first that this would be suitable for you. DD

As5567

Thanks both for your advice, I have only just recently started meth again at the lowest dose possible. On the tablet form it made me sick and my blood results come back abnormal and was taken off it. To give my new treatment a chance taking meth with it is a must as this will help to minimize my body creating anti bodies against the tnf treatment.

I have also not long come off steroids which doesn't help with sun exposure either which is why I have not been outside laying in the sun all day relaxing as I normally would. I will try long sleeves and see if that helps with the blisters on my elbows, my hands......not sure what to do there while out and about other than to keep them in my pockets. I have not long spoke to my rhumey department who has been able to get me an appointment to see my doctor in 2 weeks time so hopefully something can be done to minimize the itching that is making me go crazy!

theresa4

I know for sun related blisters I have in the past used neat lavender oil dabbed on and that takes them away overnight you could try that and I know it is fine to use with MTX and biologics.

Hope you find some relief.

Theresa

dibdab

I wonder whether an antihistamine would help the itch? Might be worth chatting to a pharmacist. Or maybe calamine lotion?

Just a thought :?
Deb x

theresa4

forgot to say I burn with factor 60 on so I sit shaded a lot, worst I get is when in swimming pool on holiday cos I hate having to get out because my skin burns despite re creaming regularly hence the lavender great for burns

Theresa

dreamdaisy

It doesn't matter how strong the factor, if the sun is going to cause trouble then it will. It may be worth your while to go and chat to your local pharmacist, they are knowledgeable folk and he may be able to suggest summat to help you; calamine is a starting point and it does soothe the heat and itchiness. DD

As5567

Thanks all for your advice, I will try some things while I'm waiting to see my doctor. The rash has gone overnight thankfully so I will experiment today and see if i get any reaction to being outside when its overcast at this time of year. This is just to rule out that its not some type of allergy's to pollen or other things that are in the air at this time of year.

As5567

Had no rash/water filled blisters when it was overcast, I have avoided the sun at all costs today and now I'm starting to get the horrible water filled blister things all over my hands yet again. The only exposure to sun that I have had is literally getting in and out of the car. I really do hope that there is something that can be done, or else I'm going to have to look at my medication and possibly stop them :S

stickywicket

In your position I think I'd be ringing the rheumatology helpline tomorrow. I know your appointment is only 2 weeks away but it's not just the meth, it's the infliximab too and we are now getting more sunshine each day. Maybe I'm being over-cautious but better safe than sorry.

dreamdaisy

I don't usually read the side-effects leaflets but if this was happening to me I would. This could be more than just the sun - please get in touch with your rheumatology unit as soon as possible. DD

As5567

Thanks both for your reply, next week is the only appointment that they can fit me in and I'm told to expect long delays. There is no clinics this week as the hospital is undergoing refibishment and they are moving departments. The following week when I have my appointment is overbooked but luckly they managed to fit me in and was told if I arrive by 8:30 they will try and see me first as the clinic starts at 9AM.