Sun is My Kryptonite

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Every summer around this time, I have to write my dedicated blog post about the summer sun.  The milder temperatures of Spring are long gone and it is hot hot hot.   This is a tough time for those with autoimmune disease and sun sensitivity.  I know those with Lupus and Sjögren's can find it particularly tough to manage during summer months. Flares, rashes, and exhaustion can all be caused by its rays. 

For me, the sun was once merely part of the background of my summer schedule.  Now, I would say it completely defines how I do almost everything.  It is certainly not convenient to have to be inside between the hours of 10:00 am and 5:00 pm each day and sometimes even later. 

The littlest bit of sun exposure from just walking cross the street (even with all my sun protective measures) can leave me feeling sapped of all energy and ill for a few hours if not more.  So yes, the sun is definitely my kryptonite.  I become completely useless when it gets the better of me.  I am also trying to be as careful as can be because I do not want to get a sun induced flare while pregnant.  A no flare pregnancy is a goal of mine!

I have many necessary sun protection measures in place and each year I add something new to my regimen.  I think this is partially true because my sun sensitivity has gotten progressively worse with each passing year.  Oh, and being pregnant seems to be upping me from super sensitive to super duper sensitive.  

This summer I have come to realize that being in the car on a sunny, hot day can be nearly as bad as being outside.  Now, I'm not the only one outfitted and covered to block those UVA/UVB rays, our car is as well.  I've purchased three car shades which now cover our passenger front seat car window and part of the back seat window as well. These shades at least make it possible for me to be in the car for brief periods on summer days without getting sick (Obviously, this only works when you can sit in the passenger seat).  

Window sun shades are relatively easy to find and are sold at places like Target and Amazon.  I'm currently using a combination of two roller shades and a cling shade in our car (click here and here for examples). I have them placed at weird angles to get the maximum sun protection possible and you can mix and match for what works in your car.  People might think we have a baby on board with all these sun shades, but that won't come for another few months :).

So here is my current compilation of daily sun protection measures.  I haven't even included extra steps for heading to the beach or the pool, but please feel free to add what is helping you prevent those summer sun induced flares and rashes.

1) SPF 30 or above sunblock with UVA and UVB protection -- Remember don't be shy about lathering it on and reapplying throughout the day.

2) Big floppy UPF 50 protective hat -- I love my Wallaroo hat that has held up for a number of years. 

3) Big sunglasses with UV protection -- Since I can't wear contacts due to Sjögren's, I use prescription sunglasses. 

4) Umbrella for walking outside -- And then you're always prepared for a summer thunderstorm. 

5) Keeping arms and legs covered when outside -- UPF clothes are always a good option even though they might not always be the most fashionable.

6) Staying in during peak sun hours especially between the hours of 10 am and 2pm -- For me, it is really closer to 10 am to 5 pm to be safe.

7) Sunshades for the Car -- Mix and match what covers your car windows best and hence gives you the most sun protection.  

8) Stay Hydrated -- While it's not exactly a flare prevention technique, having water with you at all times can help prevent dehydration. It's especially important for those with Sjögren's, who are already dealing with extreme dryness.