I have noticed a red, flushed complexion on my nose and cheeks, which seems to be a common condition as people age. Is there any way to treat it at home before seeking help from a specialist? – Norman Richards, Huddersfield.
The condition you are describing is rosacea, a common inflammatory skin disorder that primarily affects the face, particularly the nose and cheeks. Although it can also affect other areas, including the eyes. Rosacea is characterized by redness or flushing, thickening of the skin, and an irregular texture. In some cases, it can even trigger acne-like spots.
Rosacea is a chronic condition that cannot be cured and tends to worsen over time. While it may appear more prevalent in older individuals, it can develop at any age, including in people in their 20s. Fair-skinned individuals with blue eyes are generally more susceptible to rosacea.
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. Some experts believe it could be due to abnormalities in the blood vessels of the face, resulting in excess blood supply and flushing. Others suggest that the skin’s immune system reacts to microorganisms on the skin, such as Bacillus olenorius or Demodex folliculorum mites, leading to inflammation and spots.
Certain lifestyle factors can trigger flare-ups of rosacea, including exposure to strong sunlight, consuming spicy food, drinking alcohol, experiencing stress, engaging in strenuous exercise, and being exposed to extreme temperatures.
Treatment options for rosacea include prescription antibacterial creams or gels, like azelaic acid or metronidazole. Brimonidine, originally used for glaucoma treatment, has also been found to reduce skin redness by narrowing blood vessels and decreasing blood flow to the face. Another option is a cream formulation of ivermectin, an anti-parasite drug commonly used for treating head lice, which can also suppress Demodex mites.
There are some DIY measures you can take to manage rosacea. As individuals with rosacea tend to have sensitive skin, it is best to wash your face using a gentle, non-soap cleanser and avoid toners, alcohol-based products, or harsh scrubbing. When moisturizing, use a mild emollient, such as Dermol 500 lotion, twice daily.
However, it is essential to see a specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendation, especially when it comes to skin conditions. A GP or dermatologist can quickly determine if it is indeed rosacea and prescribe an effective treatment.
The muscle in my left arm has shrunk, and it now starts 4 inches above the elbow and aches when I lift any weight. Should I be concerned? I’m 74. – Gerrard Fields, Oakham, East Midlands.
Based on the description provided, it is possible that you have ruptured the long head of the bicep muscle.
The bicep muscle is located at the front of your upper arm and is responsible for flexing your elbow. It consists of two heads – the long head, which originates from the shoulder joint socket, and the short head, which attaches to the shoulder blade.
Muscles are attached to the bones by tendons, which are tough fibrous tissues. The tendon that connects the long head of the bicep to the shoulder joint can sometimes rupture spontaneously, causing a part of the muscle to drop. This can create a painless bulge, often referred to as a “Popeye” bulge, in the middle of the front of the upper arm.
This type of rupture typically occurs due to age, overuse, and smoking, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. Taking corticosteroids, an anti-inflammatory medication, can also weaken tendons by deteriorating collagen, the main structural protein.
While this is a relatively common issue in older individuals, it is important to consult a musculoskeletal physiotherapist to confirm the diagnosis. Your GP can refer you to a physiotherapist who can provide exercises to strengthen and improve the function of your arm.
In my experience, patients often benefit from continuity of care, including face-to-face consultations with a single doctor. Therefore, it is concerning to see that GPs are now working remotely, diagnosing, treating, and reviewing patients via video or phone. Despite claims that examinations can be conducted later or by another doctor, physical observations such as lung, heart, abdomen, and ear examinations are crucial and cannot be adequately performed during online consultations. Patients should not be delegated to any available medical professional.
It is truly astonishing that this new style of permitted medical care is considered acceptable, safe, effective, and trustworthy.
If you have any health concerns, it is always best to consult your own GP in a general context. You can write to Dr. Scurr at Good Health, Daily Mail, 9 Derry Street, London W8 5HY or email [email protected]. Please remember that Dr. Scurr cannot engage in personal correspondence.
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