Hi,
I have a similar response to sun and heat, but the rash is not itchy or burning, its just the physical red/ splotchyness that I get.
Is that still an allergic reaction? Should I treat it or just ignore it? (it does not affect my in any way other than turning my limbs red)
Hi,
THis is an allergic reaction to the sun, a form of physical allergy.Cholinergic urticaria is a subcategory of physical urticaria (aka hives) that is a skin rash brought on by a hypersensitive reaction to body heat.
Symptoms follow any stimulus to sweat such as exercise (sometimes called exercise-induced urticaria), heat from the sun (which could also indicate solar urticaria), saunas, hot showers (reaction to water can also indicate water urticaria).
The affected area will often feel warm and can be extremely itchy or exhibit a burning sensation. Typically the rash occurs on the upper trunk and the arms but can appear on other parts of the body.
Applying cold water or an ice pack to the skin can abort an attack.Treatment is in the form of antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin), hydroxyzine, cetirizine.
Calamine lotion can be applied on the areas of rash.
Since this is an allergic tendency on your part you cannot stay out in the sun for too long. You will have to avoid it to prevent these outbreaks.
ref:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cholinergic_urticaria