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New to ET and Hydrea: How do I protect myself from the sun?

Posted by jfranz60 @jfranz60, Feb 8 9:54am

I am new to Hydrea 500 mg daily for ET. I have taken it for only days. I am heading to a beach vacation for 5 days. How sensitive will I be to the sun after 3 days on Hydrea? Is sunscreen enough or do I need to sit in the shade? Should I take less for a few days ? My platelets are at 750. Thanks.

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janemc | @janemc | Feb 9 6:25am

Hello, jfranz60. Hydrea (HU) is a wonder drug, but it does make us vulnerable to sun damage. You'll want to prepare a little differently for your beach vacations now.

I wear a sun hat with a big floppy brim every time anytime I go outside, even in the car. I also use a mineral-based sunscreen.

And I cover up really well year 'round. SPF clothing is great, although any dark-colored, woven fabric also gives good protection.

I'd advise sitting in the shade whenever possible, and spending the brightest part of the day indoors. Also, get the biggest pair of sunglasses you can find.

Remember too that when you're in the water, you're immersed in sunlight. Save your swims for the mornings or evenings.

Above all -- have fun!

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irishnanny3 | @irishnanny3 | Feb 9 6:42am
In reply to @janemc "Hello, jfranz60. Hydrea (HU) is a wonder drug, but it does make us vulnerable to sun..." + (show)
Profile picture for janemc @janemc

Hello, jfranz60. Hydrea (HU) is a wonder drug, but it does make us vulnerable to sun damage. You'll want to prepare a little differently for your beach vacations now.

I wear a sun hat with a big floppy brim every time anytime I go outside, even in the car. I also use a mineral-based sunscreen.

And I cover up really well year 'round. SPF clothing is great, although any dark-colored, woven fabric also gives good protection.

I'd advise sitting in the shade whenever possible, and spending the brightest part of the day indoors. Also, get the biggest pair of sunglasses you can find.

Remember too that when you're in the water, you're immersed in sunlight. Save your swims for the mornings or evenings.

Above all -- have fun!

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@janemc
That is excellent advice
I’ve been on 500 mg every day for eight years
My only problem has been repeated skin cancers , most of which required MOHS surgery. I now do exactly what you advise

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janemc | @janemc | Feb 9 7:25am

So very sorry for what you've experienced, irishnanny3.

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nohrt4me (Jean) | @nohrt4me | Feb 9 8:02am

Do not decrease your HU dose unless you talk to your doc. I have been on HU seven years. No skin cancers, but skin is much more sensitive, and rosacea breaks out with any heat exposure. We have a sun shelter I got at LL Bean when our son was a baby (30 yrs ago). Pop-up tent thing open on one side with screen vents for air circ. Prob get them at sporting good stores. Works great at the beach. Fortunately, the tree line is close to our favorite beach, so I can set up our area in the shade. Do use sun screen and replenish often.

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