I have an itch on the right side of my face that keeps me awake at night. I recently had Covid and also started taking statins. Could the itching be related to any of these changes?
One solution may be to try a sinus treatment, such as a saline solution or nasal spray, to see if that improves the situation
Dr. Ellie answers: Facial discomfort that worsens at night may be caused by nerve damage. When facial nerves are damaged, it can lead to burning, itching, numbness and tingling.
An infection can also affect the nerves in this way. One culprit is shingles, a painful condition that mainly affects older people, and a Covid infection could have a similar impact.
Statins are unlikely to have this effect, as there are very few reports of patients taking the pills experiencing nerve problems.
The most common cause of itching is a skin condition, such as psoriasis or eczema. This is usually accompanied by other skin changes, including a rash or redness.
A pharmacist or GP can recommend mild steroid creams that can help relieve the itching of these conditions.
Even if there are no visible changes to the skin, it may still be worth trying one of these creams to see if it helps.
Another possible cause could be sinus problems. The area from the eye to the lip is where the sinuses – small spaces that produce mucus – are located. These can become inflamed or infected, leading to uncomfortable symptoms in that part of the face.
One solution may be to try a sinus treatment, such as a saline solution or nasal spray, to see if that improves the situation.
Earlier this year, after two courses of antibiotics failed to treat a painful urinary tract infection, I was prescribed a strong antibiotic called ciprofloxacin. Since completing the course I have suffered from painful bladder and rectal pain. Could the antibiotics be the cause?
Dr. Ellie answers: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common and easily treatable for most. However, in some people they keep coming back – this is called a chronic urinary tract infection.
Anyone who suffers from a urinary tract infection and continues to have symptoms – such as bladder pain, a burning sensation during urination and a constant urge to urinate – should be examined by a doctor, as it is possible that an infection is still present.
These symptoms are also linked to prostate problems, sexual infections and even cancer, so it is important to rule them out.
The NHS can arrange urine and blood tests, blood tests and scans to see what is going on in the bladder.
However, in some cases, antibiotics can lead to uncomfortable symptoms.
This is especially true for high-strength tablets such as ciprofloxacin, which is used to treat severe urinary tract infections. Common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation and loss of appetite.
These symptoms tend to disappear over time, but a doctor can prescribe painkillers in the meantime to manage the discomfort. In addition, three courses of antibiotics in a row will reduce the amount of ‘friendly’ bacteria in the intestines, which can cause stomach problems. Patients on a long course of antibiotics are often advised to take a daily probiotic to stimulate the growth of good bacteria in the intestines.
I have suffered from acid reflux for years and despite taking prescription medications it continues to get worse. I was also diagnosed with Schatzki ring, which means I have trouble getting food down. What can I do?
Dr. Ellie answers: A Schatzki ring is an extra circle of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus – the food pipe that connects the throat and stomach. This means it is narrower and tighter, making swallowing and eating difficult.
These rings are more common in people over 50 years of age. However, a Schatzki ring can be caused by acid reflux, also called heartburn. This is really sour
from the stomach rises into the esophagus, causing uncomfortable inflammation.
Over time, this can cause the lining of the esophagus to thicken, creating a Schatzki ring. Patients with this are often advised to eat bland foods with plenty of water.
Chewing food well until it is pureed should also help.
However, the condition can be treated with surgery; In a procedure called dilation, the esophagus is pulled open.
This is done under anesthesia and a general practitioner must first refer the patient to a specialist. A doctor can also provide a number of treatments to combat heartburn. The most common is a type of medicine called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole. Other options include dietary changes.
- Write to Doctor Ellie. Do you have a question for Dr. Ellie Cannon? E-mail DrEllie@mailonsunday.co.uk
- Dr. Cannon cannot enter into personal correspondence and her responses must be placed in a general context.
How women become unpaid psychotherapists
Experts say this phenomenon is called “mankeeping” and places an unfair emotional burden on women
A fascinating study has been published on men’s mental health, which I’m sure will prove controversial.
According to American researchers, women are increasingly acting as their husbands’ unpaid psychotherapists because they refuse to talk to their friends – if they have any – about their feelings.
Experts say this phenomenon is called “mankeeping” and places an unfair emotional burden on women.
Considering that men are more prone to mental illness and suicide, I think this is a very important aspect that we may be missing. After all, what happens to the men who have no women in their lives to confide in?
Likewise, many might argue that women shouldn’t be forced to take on this role — and that men should instead pay to see a therapist.
Does your husband rely on you for emotional support but refuse to discuss his feelings with his friends? Do you think this is fair? Write and let me know your thoughts.