Exposure to sun after RT

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User

Posted 23 Sep 2019 at 15:18

Hi all

I'm hunting for opinions and experience on this... I had RT to pelvic area and chest in 2017, and was told to avoid sun for the rest of my life! I'm off to Thailand next week, and really would like to be able to enjoy some sunshine, especially as we'll be living on a beach for most of the time. I do have a rash vest and high grade sun cream, although I would rather like to have a slightly relaxed attitude to life and the weather. Am I really at dire risk of instant sunburn? All thoughts gratefully received.

cheers

Graham

User

Posted 23 Sep 2019 at 15:31

I don't know, but the thing you want to look at on the sun tan lotion is not only the factor, but the UVA rating which is even more important. It's shown as a circle with UVA written in it and up to 5 stars - look for at least a 4 star one, and 5 stars if you can find one. If you get a waterproof one, it's probably only a question of slapping it on 2-3 times a day, and then forgetting about it. I did hear someone say you are at more risk if the RT caused any skin marks/darkening/reddening/irritation at the time - mine didn't, but it was only 4.5 weeks.

Obviously, keep an eye on the area.

Also note the sun goes through most thin T-shirts/vests, so you will still need it on under one of those.

User

Posted 24 Sep 2019 at 11:11

Thanks for the replies. I've always had rubbish skin, in as much as I burn quite easily. S yes, I do have top quality waterproof sun cream (and 4* UVA) which I apply liberally. However, it is pleasant to go shirtless for maybe a quick 30 minute swim. I wouldn't normally sunblock myself for 30 minutes, but I do wonder if I will now need to. It's going to be exciting finding out!

Actually, it might be a little too exciting - when we arrive on the island in the Gulf of Thailand, our first excursion will be a snorkelling trip to shark bay, which is full of... sharks! Maybe UV shark repellent would be more appropriate.

User

Posted 24 Sep 2019 at 15:41

Sounds to me like someone gave you half a story, Graham. In the first few weeks/months straight after RT, your skin may be more susceptible to sunburn in the areas where the zapping was delivered; John was told to avoid taking his top off in sunny climes for 3 months. In fact, we went to Gambia 3.5 months after he finished the RT and although he didn't lay topless on a sunbed for long and was careful to use a high factor cream, it wasn't an issue. There again, he is naturally dark skinned and hadn't experienced any soreness or skin-burn during the treatment.

"Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards." Soren Kierkegaard

User

Posted 24 Sep 2019 at 19:36

Thanks for that Lyn, it is sort of what I thought. I'll give the specialist nurses a call as well, but I think taking the attitude of don't be too silly, and be a little wary should sort stuff out. I just didn't want to feel anxious about it while I'm on holiday! Not that I do anxious particularly well anyway.

ON with the packing and prepping, and pacing with impatience. I'm so ready for this holiday!

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