Real-life issues and medical advice

Our expert answers your medical

questions

My baby has cradle cap, what is it?

Cradle cap is common in babies. The peak is at three months and it usually disappears by 12 months. The likely cause is sebum, the oily, waxy substance produced by the sebaceous glands. Malassezia, a yeast found on the skin, may also be involved. In cradle cap there are greasy, yellow scabs on the scalp which are not itchy or contagious. Treatment is usually either with the application of a moisturiser or cradle cap shampoo. Scabs can then be carefully and gently removed with a cloth of soft toothbrush if necessary. Cradle cap is nothing to worry about. I’m 68 and am worried I am losing my hearing. Can you advise?

This is very common. In fact one in two people over the age of 65 will suffer hearing loss to some degree. It can significantly affect quality of life. You can be at increased risk with exposure to loud noise, if you have diabetes or if there is a family history of hearing loss. Treatment is a hearing aid and there are other aids like amplifiers for phones, and doorbells that light up. See your GP.

The Doc Replies

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