I was diagnosed with intertrigo.It does not seem to be improvingdespite treatment.

Intertrigo is the scientific name for skin lesions that occur in areas such as the armpits, gluteal folds, under the breasts and between the thighs. It is more likely to occur if you are overweight, have diabetes or wear tightfitting clothes, which prevent the free circulation of air and evaporation of sweat.

Apply coconut oil for 10 minutes before a bath. Bathe twice a day with antibacterial soap. Keep the area dry. If there is a secondary bacterial orfungal infection, apply the appropriate prescribed cream. Wear loosefitting clothes and lose weight.

Heartburn

I have pain in the centreof my chest every night. After extensive investiga-tions, I was diagnosed with heartburn due to oesopha-geal reflux disease. I am onmedication, but I feel I needto modify my lifestyle.

In addition to the medication, try to eat every four hours. Do not increase the total amount you eat; just divide it into small, frequent meals. Reduce coffee, tea, chocolate and coladrinks. Drink three litres of water a day. Eat dinner at least two hours before sleeping. Elevate the head end of thebed.

Fungus in fingernail

I think there is a fungal infectionin one of my fingernails. What should I do?

Fungal infections of the nails are common. They can be confused with bacterial infections and psoriasis. Consult a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.Do not soak your hands in soapywater. Instead, use rubber gloves while washing clothes or dishes. Apply anti-fungal ointment twice a day. If it does not clear up within a month, consideroral antifungal tablets. Unfortunately, you may have to continue the medication for two to three months.

Ear infection

My eight-month-old son had an earinfection. How can I ensure that itdoes not recur?

Breast feed your son or use a cup and spoon to feed him. Do not bottle feed. Donot feed him lying down. If he develops a cold, use saline nose drops and steam inhalations. Common bacteria causingear infections are H.influenzae and S.pneumoniae. Immunisation is availableagainst them as part of the extended immunisation schedule. These should be given to prevent ear infections.

Drowsy

I feel drowsy in the afternoons and coffee makes me jittery.

Our body’s natural sleep-wake rhythm tends to make us tired in the afternoons.You could eat a good breakfast and then a light, low-carbohydrate lunch with fruits. Sugary snacks will make you drowsy. Rest for 30 minutes after lunch. This will reju-venate you. If your siesta is longer, you will feel lethargic. You could also try a brisk walk after lunch.

Facial hair

I am a 25-year-old woman with a lot of facial hair. I have been advised laser treatment.Lasers destroy hair follicles. Treatment is not effective immediately and does not last forever. However, the hair that grows back over time will usually be thinner and more delicate. You may need around 6-8 weekly treatments. For the first few years, you might need maintenance sessions every six months.

Backache

I have been put on anti-inflamma-tory drugs and painkillers for my backache. Unfortunately, there is no relief after some time, even when the dose is increased.

Incorporate regular aerobic exercise, flexion and stretching into your lifestyle. That will help strengthen the supporting back muscles and decrease the dose of medication. Many of these exercises can be learnt online. The correct technique can also be learnt by going to physiotherapy or yoga classes.

The writer has a family practice at Vellore and is the author of Staying Healthy in Modern India. If you have any questions on health issues please write to yourhealthgm@yahoo.co.in