DEAR READER: Rose-thorn (or rose gardener’s) disease has the technical name of sporothrix schenckii. It is a fungus that resides on hay, sphagnum mosses and the tips of rose thorns. It can cause infection, redness, swelling and open ulcers at the puncture site. The fungus can spread to the lymphatic system and move on to the joints and bones, where it ends up attacking the central nervous system and lungs when the thorn or thorns are deeply embedded.

Diagnosis can be complicated because the condition is relatively uncommon. When an ulcer does present, it is often mistaken by a physician as a staph or strep infection and gets treated accordingly. It is only when the antibiotics prescribed fail to eradicate the ulcer that physicians look outside the box.

Many people enjoy the fragrance and beauty of roses in their gardens, and they should continue to do so. It is likely that they’ve had their skin pierced by thorns on numerous occasions. The best way to prevent rose-thorn disease is to wear appropriate gloves when pruning and to wash any minor punctures with an antibacterial soap. Should a thorn embed the skin beyond that of a minor puncture, it is critical to watch carefully for any signs of infection and report them at once to a physician for testing. The best way to determine whether the infection is present is through a culture of the wound. This is often done by taking a biopsy of the area, which is then examined.

You have continued with symptoms for close to a year now, so I can’t guess how long they might last. Perhaps a small portion of the thorn has remained embedded in your finger and is the reason for the prolonged flare-up. Speak with your physician to determine whether further testing or another short course of antifungals is appropriate.
The simplest things in life carry risk. If flowers provide you pleasure, take precautions that will allow you to stop and smell those roses.

DEAR READER: Common causes of foot rash are dry skin, heat exposure, fungus and spider-vein itch. If your feet are dry, rub them with a lanolin-based cream. If heat could be the culprit, change to footwear such as sandals or canvas sneakers, and wear light cotton socks. Fungal infection might be treated with a topical medicated product or a trip to your physician for a prescription. Spider-vein itch is treated with elastic stockings and alternative remedies.

DEAR READER:
“Fungal” infections under and around nail beds can be caused by yeasts, molds and various fungi. Most are caused by the same type of yeast that causes athlete’s foot. The average healthy individual should not be affected by an infection, other than from an aesthetic view point. Problems arise for diabetics, those with weakened immune systems, and many individuals as they age.

According to many of my readers, Vicks or a store brand mentholated chest rub equivalent takes several months, but has shown promise in controlling fungus for many people. If you aren’t among those reporting success with this product, there are alternatives.

Speak with your primary care physician to determine if prescription medication might appropriate for you. Two better known anti-fungals he or she might prescribe are Lamisil and Penlac. Determine insurance coverage, since some medications can cost in excess of $10 per pill per day and must be taken for three months. This translates to more than $900 with no guarantee of success. A downside is the potential for side effects including skin rash and liver damage. Therefore, if you and your doctor determine prescription medication is appropriate for you, I urge you to have a liver test before beginning and on completion of the course of the drug. Should a rash develop, report to your physician.

Some people have had success with vinegar. There is no scientific or direct evidence that the infection will be eradicated, however, vinegar has been known to inhibit the growth of certain organisms. Experts suggest soaking the affected foot or feet in a mixture of one part vinegar to two parts warm water for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the feet and pat them dry. The process should be performed once or twice a week until the infection is under control.

Still another solution is Miranel Anti Fungal Treatment, a new product available over-the-counter, that kills fungus around and under nails. It is also recommended for control of athlete’s foot and ringworm. While similar to Vicks in that it contains camphor, eucalyptus and menthol, it also has the addition of tea tree oil and miconazole nitrate. This latter ingredient inhibits the growth and reproduction of fungal cells as well as being more easily absorbed through the damaged nail. Unlike standard over-the-counter remedies, Miranel uses natural properties that provide safe yet effective treatment for eradication of nail fungus. With no ingestion of medication, there is no worry of liver damage, and to the best of my knowledge, there have been no reports of skin rash.

While test studies report astonishing success, I again am asking my readers to report their findings with Miranel found at Wal-Mart, but understand it is available at most pharmacies. If it isn’t, ask your pharmacist to order it for you or visit www.MiranelBrands.com.

Since I have mentioned prescriptions and alternatives for control, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.