ASK THE DOC ‘I have dry skin on my arms and work in a cafe serving public’
Can arthritis affect children too?
Arthritis is often associated with older people, but it can affect children. In the UK, around 15,000 children and young people are affected.
Most types are known as juvenile idipathic arthritis ( JIA) which causes pain and inflammation in one or more joints for at least six weeks.
Although the exact cause is unknown, the symptoms often improve as a child gets older, meaning they can lead a normal life. www.nhsinform.scot has further information on the condition. The skin on my arms has become irritated and dry. I work in a cafe and don’t want customers to notice. Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema triggered by contact with a particular substance – in this case, it may be cleaning products in the cafe.
The condition causes the skin to become red, blistered, dry and cracked. Symptoms can affect any part of the body, but most commonly the hands and face. If you can successfully avoid the irritants or allergens that trigger your symptoms, your skin will eventually clear up.
However, if that’s not possible, moisturisers applied to the skin can help stop it and steroid ointments can relieve severe symptoms.
You can also use gloves to protect your hands and change products that irritate your skin. With treatment, most people can expect their symptoms to improve and in some cases, clear up completely. You should see your GP if you have persistent, recurrent or severe symptoms.
For further information see: www. nhsinform.scot I’ve just had a baby and thinking about having a contraceptive implant fitted. Is it safe to do so?
A contraceptive implant is safe to be fitted after giving birth, usually after three weeks. If it is fitted on or before day 21 after the birth, you will be immediately protected against pregnancy.
If it is fitted later than day 21, you will need to use extra contraception for the following seven days.
It is also safe to breastfeed if you have an implant fitted.
You can seek advice from your midwife or GP after you have your baby or during your pregnancy to make sure you are advised well in advance.
For more information on the contraceptive implant, visit www. nhsinform.scot