Bright idea to zap
QI have read that in some newer aeroplanes, the toilet compartment is lit by blue light. Could this be at all harmful to the eyes and even contribute to macular degeneration?
AI THINK you are referring to the ultraviolet (UV) light that is now being used on some aircraft for cleaning purposes. It is not used to light up the toilet compartment when someone is using it but rather the light comes on when the compartment is vacated.
It shines on all the surfaces for a few seconds and apparently this is a very effective way of killing all types of germs. The UV rays used are a different wavelength from those used in tanning beds and are not harmful to the eyes or the skin.
For the past three years I have suffered from a terrible skin irritation in my genital area that I think might be eczema. I am desperate to get rid of it as it has ruined any closeness with my husband but I am afraid to go to the doctor about this. I am 65.
AIN younger women genital itching is often due to thrush but this is unusual after the menopause. Instead irritation is often caused by the dryness that can occur when oestrogen levels are very low.
However this does not tend to cause extreme itching and I wonder if you have the skin condition lichen sclerosus. This causes the body’s immune system to attack the skin cells, making them inflamed, sore and itchy. This is followed by scarring, which makes it uncomfortable to have sex as the entrance to the vagina becomes smaller and cannot stretch.
Without treatment the condition can lead to a slightly increased risk of vulval cancer so it is very important that you see a doctor and get a proper diagnosis. If your usual GP is male I am sure he won’t mind if you arrange to see one of his female colleagues. Or you could ask the practice nurse if she could be with you while you see the doctor.
Effective treatment, in the form of strong steroid cream, can relieve the irritation, stop further scarring and also prevent the increased risk of cancer so it is important you do get down to the surgery.
FollowIng an accident 20 years ago I damaged my lower back and have spent a lot of time in a wheelchair ever since. about two years ago I started getting pins and needles in my feet. Today my feet are painful all the time and my legs permanently feel cold. Painkillers are ineffective.
what could be causing this? I am a Type 2 diabetic and have suffered from a heart attack in the past.
AI SUSPECT you have two different problems in your legs. The cold feeling is probably due to poor circulation from narrowed arteries. The best treatment for this is to continue with the medication you have been given following your heart attack, including statins. Eat a healthy diet and most importantly, do not smoke.
Exercising your legs will help as well, though I accept this is difficult for you as you spend much of your time in a wheelchair. The pins and needles suggest you have pressure on the nerves that supply your legs.
The best medicines for this are ones that alter the messages from nerves to the brain, such as amitriptyline, gabapentin or carbamazepine. Unlike standard painkillers these take time to become fully effective and they