Sunlight Related Medical Conditions & Diseases

The sun is a source of both vital energy and harmful radiation and can trigger health problems when exposure is excessive or inadequate. There are many different types of sunlight-related conditions, some of which can cause life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Types

Diseases that can be triggered or made worse by the sun include skin cancer and autoimmune diseases like lupus and scleroderma, while conditions related to lack of adequate sunlight include rickets, osteomalacia and seasonal affective disorder.

Symptoms

In sun-sensitive conditions like lupus, sun exposure may lead to rash, redness or inflammation in joints, tissues and internal organs. Growth of skin nodules and changes in moles can signal skin cancer, while osteomalacia often presents with muscle weakness and bone pain. Like major depression, SAD is characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety and lack of energy.

Causes

The causes of lupus are unknown, although genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role, according to EMedicineHealth.com. Skin cancer stems mainly from a combination of genetic factors and overexposure to the sun, while vitamin D deficiency is the cause of osteomalacia and rickets.

Complications

Complications of lupus include damage to the kidneys, lungs, heart and brain. Left untreated, skin cancer–especially melanoma–can spread to the blood and internal organs, while rickets and osteomalacia increase the risk of broken bones and dental deformities. In severe cases, SAD can lead to suicidal behaviors, substance abuse and social withdrawal, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Prevention/Solution

Those with sun-sensitivity should shield themselves from the sun’s rays by wearing protective clothing and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher. Supplementing the diet with additional vitamin D and opening the home and workspace up to more natural sunlight may improve symptoms of conditions caused by inadequate sun exposure.