Can using sunbeds be beneficial to our RA symptoms?

[juddo39]

Not to excess but maybe for 5 minutes a couple of times a week. I feel desperate for some heat in the form of sunshine but cannot afford the time or money to go abroad.

[Hidden]

Hi, there was a recent thread about this you may like to check out nras.healthunlocked.com/que...

Personally I wouldn't use them as the thought of skin cancer terrifies me. I'm finding this cold weather horrible too and look forward to starting at the gym in a couple of weeks as I know they have a nice hot jacuzzi and a steam room to warm me up.

Paula x

[juddo39 in reply to Hidden]

Hi Paula, thanks for your reply I'll check out the link but I admit to going this morning anyway. Whether I'll do it regularly I'm not sure.... Jacuzzi and steam room sounds bliss probably a safer option.

Judith x

[sheenerweener]

i was recently told by my counseller to asked my dr if i can have a few sessions on the nhs,as she had a former client who was given in by her dr,this was in the winchester area so not sure if it depends on money etc,and i havn,t got round to asking my dr yet xx

[Beth58]

I used to go on them every few weeks for 10 minutes, I found it really beneficial for my pelvis/spine until I had a bad reaction and my whole body burnt badly after only a couple of minutes. I had to have tepid baths to cool my skin and sit with only my dressing gown on for days, it was to painful for anything to touch my skin.

My doctor couldn't explain it and I never found out why I reacted like that but needless to say I've never been on one since.

I really loved going on one and it made me feel better physically and mentally, so if you do try it only go on for a few minutes every couple of weeks and make sure you moisturise your whole body afterwards.

Beth x

[juddo39 in reply to Beth58]

Thanks Beth, I only went on for 6 minutes and so far I'm fine. Its not for a colour just to see if it makes a difference to my overall well being. If I can just have a full nights sleep tonight I know it will make all the difference.

Judith x

[earthwitch]

One thing to be very aware of is that many drugs can cause sun-sensitivity, so even 5 minutes on a sunbed may be enough to cause problems. I'd definitely check out with your doctor whether any of the meds you are on are likely to cause problems with that before you do it.

[juddo39 in reply to earthwitch]

Thanks earthwitch, I'll ask this week when I get my bloods done. I know with Mtx you have to be careful with the sun in fact I now have a large pigmented area on my forearm since beginning Mtx last year but I havn't been concerned about it enough to see my GP.

Judith x