DEAR DR. GOTT: I need your help. About two years ago, a dermatologist told me I had very nice skin. Some time ago, I started losing the pigmentation of the skin on my arms, hands and neck. I asked the dermatologist if there were anything to do about it or to prevent it. He didn't know. Now I am asking you, is there anything that can be done about this?
DEAR READER: You appear to be suffering from vitiligo, a common and harmless skin condition of unknown cause.
Although the light patches on your arms, hands and neck are the result of the skin's blotchy depigmentation, these cosmetic changes will not affect your health and are untreatable. Remember, however, that these areas of light skin are very vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation, so use plenty of sunblock if you are going to be out in the sun.
To my knowledge there is no cure or preventive for vitiligo. However, because I am not a dermatologist, I am not completely up to date on advances or possible treatments for this condition. Ask your dermatologist about more recent information, or seek a second opinion from another specialist.
DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 65-year-old female, and I have a very bad itching and burning around my anus that appear to be worse at night.
I have been to my medical doctor. She gave me vaginal gel and two Diflucan tablets, even though she said I didn't have any signs of a yeast infection. This was three weeks ago, and it has not helped any. It seems to be even worse. I have now developed hemorrhoids, which I am treating with over-the-counter cream.
This started about three or four months ago and has increased greatly.
DEAR READER: It's time to get a specialist's opinion. Ask your doctor to refer you to a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist. You may have a low-grade infection, a polyp or some other rectal problem that needs to be addressed. Also, internal hemorrhoids in the lower rectal area could be to blame. The specialist should be able to help you.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Medical Specialists." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
DEAR READER: You appear to be suffering from vitiligo, a common and harmless skin condition of unknown cause.
Although the light patches on your arms, hands and neck are the result of the skin's blotchy depigmentation, these cosmetic changes will not affect your health and are untreatable. Remember, however, that these areas of light skin are very vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation, so use plenty of sunblock if you are going to be out in the sun.
To my knowledge there is no cure or preventive for vitiligo. However, because I am not a dermatologist, I am not completely up to date on advances or possible treatments for this condition. Ask your dermatologist about more recent information, or seek a second opinion from another specialist.
DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 65-year-old female, and I have a very bad itching and burning around my anus that appear to be worse at night.
I have been to my medical doctor. She gave me vaginal gel and two Diflucan tablets, even though she said I didn't have any signs of a yeast infection. This was three weeks ago, and it has not helped any. It seems to be even worse. I have now developed hemorrhoids, which I am treating with over-the-counter cream.
This started about three or four months ago and has increased greatly.
DEAR READER: It's time to get a specialist's opinion. Ask your doctor to refer you to a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist. You may have a low-grade infection, a polyp or some other rectal problem that needs to be addressed. Also, internal hemorrhoids in the lower rectal area could be to blame. The specialist should be able to help you.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Medical Specialists." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.