Mother helped by Gott column

Dr. Gott — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 05:01:07 +0000

DEAR DR. GOTT: I enjoy your column and was excited to read about the National Eczema Association. All three of my children suffer with this condition as well as with food allergies and asthma. Often, their attacks coincide.
My 5-year-old daughter suffers the worst and is often treated cruelly because of it by other children. I was so happy to find a Web site to keep current on new treatments and possibly a support group to help all of us with the emotional effects this malady causes.
Eczema may not be fatal, but it is real and bothersome. Thank you for sharing the information.
DEAR READER: Thank you for the compliment. I am glad to have helped in some way. It is the reason I first began writing a medical column and continue to do so.
Eczema (the itch that rashes) is a relatively common skin condition that, by itself, is not harmful. It can, however, be annoying and cosmetically unpleasant. Persistent scratching can lead to a rash, which may result in bleeding, cracked skin that is wide open to infection. It is important that skin be kept clean, dry and well moisturized, especially in children who often cannot help but scratch the itchy areas.
Common home remedies include taking lukewarm or cool baths or showers, using oatmeal soap or bath additives and applying moisturizing lotion while skin is still damp as often as needed throughout the day. Avoiding scratching is the best way to prevent the rash but is often difficult to accomplish. Furthermore, keeping nails trimmed may reduce skin damage. Topical prescription medication is a final option for those who cannot find relief by using self-care techniques.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Dermatitis, Eczema and Psoriasis.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Food allergies may cause concern with scan dyes

Dr. Gott — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 05:01:44 +0000

DEAR DR. GOTT: In a past column, you addressed the problem of allergies and scan dyes. I would like to add some information in the hopes that it will help others avoid a problem.
I am allergic to shrimp. On my first trip to the hospital, I was asked if I were allergic to any medications. I wasn’t aware of any, but I did say I was allergic to shrimp. I thought the nurse would say I shouldn’t expect shrimp at the hospital and we would have a chuckle about it, but instead she said that it was “significant.” When I asked why, she told me that it had the same chemical makeup as intravenous dye and proceeded to give me a red bracelet and wrote down the allergy in red pen on my chart.
After that experience, I always reply to the allergy question with my shrimp answer. During my last hospital visit, a nurse told me that it was not significant because that dye is no longer in use, but I don’t want to take any chances and continue to let them know.
I think that anyone with any kind of allergy should make medical staff aware of it, regardless of whether it is “significant” or not. The saying goes “Better safe than sorry,” and I completely agree with it.
DEAR READER: I have printed your letter because you make an excellent point. I agree that it is better to give too much information than not enough, especially in regards to health and medical treatment.

Ask Dr. Gott » food allergies

Mother helped by Gott column

Food allergies may cause concern with scan dyes