In the scorching summer, it's not just the high temperature that makes people uncomfortable, but also many related allergic diseases. On the occasion of World Allergy Day, a reporter from Science and Technology Daily visited several hospital experts and asked them to come up with solutions to their sensitive summer worries. Be cautious of sun exposure to prevent solar dermatitis. In summer, ultraviolet rays gradually increase, and many people have found that after being exposed to the sun, their faces will show symptoms of redness and itching. Lu Jianyun, director of the Department of Dermatology at Xiangya Third Hospital of Central South University, said that this may be solar dermatitis. Sunlight dermatitis, also known as acute sunburn, is an acute inflammatory response that occurs when normal skin is exposed to excessive and intense ultraviolet radiation. Lu Jianyun introduced that common skin rashes in patients with solar dermatitis are usually located on exposed areas such as the face, neck, and back of the hand. Within hours to days after exposure to sunlight, the patient's skin begins to show clearly defined red patches, which can develop into blisters or bullae in severe cases, accompanied by burning, itching, or stinging sensations. Redness usually reaches its peak within 24-48 hours, followed by gradual desquamation and pigmentation. Sunlight dermatitis not only affects quality of life, but long-term recurrence may also increase the risk of skin cancer. Through scientific sun protection and timely intervention, people can effectively reduce the damage of ultraviolet rays to the skin. ”Su Juan, director of the Department of Dermatology at Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, said. One option is to use physical protection. Experts suggest using sun protection clothing, umbrellas, wide brimmed hats, and sunglasses with a UV protection factor greater than 50 for daytime travel. The second option is to use chemical protection. Experts suggest applying sunscreen with a UV protection factor of 30 or above and PA+++or above in daily life, and applying it 15-30 minutes before going out to ensure that the sunscreen has enough time to form a film. In addition, it is recommended to reapply every 2 hours, especially after sweating or swimming. Thirdly, we need to make adjustments to our daily lives. Experts suggest that susceptible individuals reduce their intake of photosensitive foods such as celery, coriander, and fungus; For those who are sensitive to photosensitive drugs, it is necessary to consult a doctor to adjust the medication plan. It is important to note that even on cloudy days, it is necessary to take good care of UV protection. ”Dr. Luo Zhongling, attending physician of the Department of Dermatology at Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, said that on cloudy days, the clouds are relatively thick. Although it can block some of the medium wave ultraviolet rays, long wave ultraviolet rays can still penetrate the clouds and reach the ground. Long wave ultraviolet radiation is the "culprit" that causes skin photoaging phenomena such as blackening, sagging, and wrinkles. Therefore, on cloudy days, we cannot relax our vigilance. In addition, Su Juan reminds that if there is a serious rash or symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive standardized treatment. Air conditioning dust mites can cause allergic rhinitis. In summer, when people enter cool air-conditioned rooms from the hot outdoors, they often unconsciously sneeze frequently, have a runny nose, red and itchy eyes, and even develop red rashes all over their bodies. Is this an individual allergic to cold air? No, the main culprit is actually mites causing allergic rhinitis. Jiang Weihong, Director of Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Surgery at Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, explained that dust mites prefer humid (humidity around 80%) and warm (temperature 17-30 ℃) environments. They feed on human dander, sweat, hair, etc. Their secretions, excreta, dead worms, and molting are all allergens that can enter the human body through air or contact, causing allergic reactions. Air conditioning is a breeding ground for dust mites, and its internal filters, heat sinks, and other components are prone to accumulate dust and debris, making it a 'paradise' for dust mites, "he said. When the air conditioner is turned on, tightly closed doors and windows make the indoor space relatively enclosed and poorly ventilated. Dust mites, their excrement, body fragments, etc. will spread throughout the room with the cold air. Ma Yanhong, Deputy Chief Physician of Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Surgery at Xiangya Third Hospital of Central South University, said that when these things are inhaled into the nasal cavity, they will stimulate the body's immune system to release "chemical weapons" such as histamine, leading to allergic symptoms. In an air-conditioned environment, dry cold air makes the nasal mucosa more fragile and susceptible to irritation, which can exacerbate symptoms of rhinitis. How to scientifically prevent allergic rhinitis caused by mites? Experts suggest starting from the details of daily life. For example, mite killing star is "high temperature+exposure", which can be soaked in hot water above 55 ℃ every one to two weeks for cooling mats, air conditioning blankets, pillowcases, bed sheets, etc. in the home; New cooling mats or bedding that has been put into use after being idle can also be washed with hot water first and then placed in the sun for sun exposure. After sun exposure, tap them frequently with your hands; Regularly use a mite remover to thoroughly clean mattresses and sofas; Adjust the air conditioner to dehumidification mode to maintain indoor humidity below 50%; Open windows for ventilation at least twice a day, in the morning and evening, for at least 30 minutes each time. In addition, experts suggest cleaning the air conditioning filter every 1-2 months, opening doors and windows before turning on the air conditioning, and closing doors and windows after turning on the air conditioning for a few minutes; Try not to stack too many plush toys, blankets, thick curtains, and other objects that are prone to accumulating dust and mites in the bedroom; Regularly wipe the surface of furniture to reduce floating dust, and vacuum the sofa and carpet at least once a week; Pillows, mattresses, and blankets can be covered with mite resistant fabric to isolate allergens. Mosquito bites can cause papular urticaria in summer. After being bitten by mosquitoes, many people will have continuous papules like bumps on their skin, which are extremely itchy and unbearable. Lu Jianyun told reporters that this is likely caused by papular urticaria. Unlike regular mosquito bites, papular urticaria is caused by an overreaction of the immune system. Lu Jianyun introduced that papular urticaria, also known as "insect bite dermatitis", is an allergic reaction caused by insect bites, characterized mainly by bright red papules with itching. She introduced that papular urticaria initially appears as papular or red papules. When inflammation spreads to surrounding tissues, it may induce wheal like changes, forming pink or pale "peripheral wheals" accompanied by severe itching. As people continue to scratch, it can lead to the expansion of wheals, swelling, and increased itching, and even the formation of blisters, causing secondary infections or residual pigmentation and scars. When papular urticaria occurs, experts recommend avoiding scratching first, then applying local cold compress, and choosing calamine lotion for external use, but avoiding applying it to the ulcerated area. If the patient experiences severe redness, swelling, and itching, under the guidance of a physician, topical corticosteroid cream (such as 0.1% hydrocortisone butyrate cream) can be applied to the area where the skin lesion has not yet ruptured to rapidly suppress the inflammatory response. For those with severe itching or extensive skin lesions, antihistamines can be used systematically to alleviate symptoms. Lu Jianyun specifically reminds that although most papular urticaria can be relieved on its own or improved through the above treatments, if there are skin lesions involving the head and face that do not subside, itching accompanied by systemic symptoms such as palpitations, chest tightness, fever, secondary infection of local skin lesions, prolonged and progressive rash, etc., immediate medical attention should be sought. There are also ways to prevent papular urticaria. Experts suggest wearing light colored, dense long sleeved clothing during outdoor activities; Install screen windows and doors in the living room, and use mosquito nets during sleep; Follow the product instructions and use mosquito repellents containing effective mosquito repellent ingredients (such as mosquito repellent amine, mosquito repellent ester, etc.) correctly; Maintain a clean and dry indoor and outdoor environment; Individuals with a history of severe insect bite reactions or allergies should strengthen their protective measures when going out and keep antihistamines at home. (New Society)