Q: I am a 56-year-old man dealing with a recurring yeast infection in my groin. I am probably 10 pounds overweight, and blood tests show no signs of diabetes. My dermatologist has prescribed econazole cream, which seems to control but not cure it. I try not to use cortisone creams.
What can I do to prevent this?
A: You might be surprised by our recommendation. Several readers suggest that applying Listerine to the affected area once or twice a day can make a difference for a yeast infection like this.
One other thing you might try: Some people without diabetes find it much easier to control common skin yeast such as seborrheic dermatitis by avoiding foods that make blood sugar (and insulin) rise rapidly. A low-glycemic diet that features lots of vegetables and whole grains instead of processed food made with flour and sugar is also good for general health.
Q: When my mother was going through chemotherapy, she was always nauseated after the treatment. We got her some acupressure wristbands used to combat seasickness. Much to her surprise, they helped her feel much better.
We suspect others may want to try this as well. I would worry about potential interactions between herbs or home remedies and the anti-cancer drugs, but this should be safe.
A: Thanks for an excellent recommendation. A study of 160 women being treated for breast cancer found that acupressure bands significantly reduced the delayed nausea and vomiting, compared with placebo bands and usual care (Oncology Nursing Forum, July 2007).
Q: I've struggled with insomnia for more than 20 years. I broke my Ambien habit by taking Citracal and magnesium plus valerian about 45 minutes before bedtime. This has been great for the past six months.
A: Other readers have reported that magnesium at bedtime can help aid sleep. Valerian is an herb traditionally used to treat insomnia. It sounds like you have hit on a winning combination.
King Features Syndicate Inc.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement