Blinded By the Light

Tweet

Yes, it is a great old song written and recorded by Bruce Springsteen in 1973 and then a number one hit for Manfred Mann's Earth band in 1976. But this title just popped into my head due to my experience yesterday with what I call " the blue light special." More formally, it is called "Photodynamic Therapy," and is recommended by the American Cancer Society for the treatment of pre-cancerous growths. It starts with a two chemical combination being painted onto the affected area, usually the face, head and neck, waiting an hour, in my case and then donning protective goggles and sitting in front of this powerful light for 17 minutes. It burns some and later that day, you have a pretty bad "sunburn," which then peels (a lot) and heals in about two weeks. Sunburns don't feel good, most of us know, and I am having a little discomfort, but using lots of moisturizer. Showers, shampoo and the usual things are fine. I won't shave today. Two treatments are far more effective than one, so in one month, I do it all again. I am glad to say that my insurance covers this treatment. This therapy is not yet widely used. Only one dermatologist in my area does it. It is no more uncomfortable than having those areas blasted with CO2, which feels like an instant ice cream headache. If you want to know more, here is a link. https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/treatment-types/photodynamic-therapy.html