I’m very new to the RA world having been diagnosed at the end of January. I’ve had Vitiligo since I was 18 (now 51) so am used to being careful in the sun, factor 50 every day. I started methotrexate on being diagnosed with RA and am aware of it causing sun sensitivity.
I’m due to go to Australia on holiday at the end of April, booked prior to RA raising its head, my question to anyone who has both RA & Vitiligo is do I need to be even more careful in the sun. Do you have any tips. TIA
Hi. I have R.A. and vitiligo. I use VITILIGLOW camouflage cover which has got some cover from the sun. It helps me and have used it for years. Go on line and they give you a lot of help. It's difficult in hot countries but I've managed well in S.A. I just don't sit in the sun and I wear a hat. Just go and enjoy yourself. Just be a bit careful with extra help from complete sun block. Hope this helps a little. Love Sylvia
Thank you. I’ve never heard of Vitiliglow, but I’ll check it out.
the added extra with RA is you need to take care of your eyes too. So shades as well as sun block and hats!
Thank you.
Hi, I went to Australia last year at the beginning of May, Melbourne than the Gold Coast. Melbourne was not a problem because it is their autumn but the Cairns area was around 29 degrees most days. I don't like the heat but travelling around in a car was no problem. All the thing you normally do applies as previously mentioned. Enjoy.
A busy holiday then.
It will be. Finishing off in Melbourne where we’re visiting relatives. Was really looking forward to it then RA hit, and although still looking forward to it it’s slightly tempered by being anxious about the flight & the sun while being on methotrexate.
Having had Vitiligo for so long I’m a pro at sun block & covering up, and the additional advice offered about methotrexate has been great.
I have had Vitiligo 1966 and RA since 1988. I have not had any problems with the sun on methotrexate but all different. Where a hat & use sunscreen and long sleeves if necessary. One if the things the Aussie government say on their web site is to stay in the shade 12 to 3pm, if it is hot you will not see them out and about so do likewise. Yes we saw relatives in Melbourne as well.
when I researched MTX (am on 17.5 mg, 7 weeks) it looked like the problem with sun sensitivity and MTX is areas of skin that have been irradiated during cancer treatment etc. Skin that has been irradiated will be more easily damaged. I had radiation below my left clavicle which went through to my back. I just wear a shirt type swim top, covers those areas. Otherwise, prudent sun safety will work for you!
thank you.
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