I have an itch on the right side of my face that keeps me up at night. I recently had Covid and also began taking statins. Could the itch be related to either of these changes?
One solution may be to try a sinus treatment, such as a saline rinse or nose spray, to see if that improves things
Dr Ellie replies: An uncomfortable sensation on the face that gets worse 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 targeting mainly older people, and a Covid infection could have a similar impact.
Statins are unlikely to have this affect, as there are very few reports of patients on the pills experiencing nerve issues.
The most common cause of itching is a skin condition, such as psoriasis or eczema. This would usually be associated with other skin changes, including a rash or redness.
A pharmacist or GP could recommend mild steroid creams which can help relieve the itchiness of these conditions.
Even if there are no visible changes to the skin, it might still be worth trying one of these creams to see if it helps.
Another possible cause may be sinus problems. The region from the eye down to the lip is where the sinuses – small spaces which produce mucus – sit. These can be come inflamed or infected, which could lead to uncomfortable symptoms in that part of the face.
One solution may be to try a sinus treatment, such as a saline rinse or nose spray, to see if that improves things.
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 finishing the course, I’ve suffered agonising bladder and rectum pain. Could the antibiotics be to blame?
Dr Ellie replies: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common and, for most, are easy to treat. However, for some they keep returning – this is then called a chronic UTI.
Anyone who suffers a UTI and keeps having symptoms – such as bladder pain, a burning sensation during urination and a constant urge to pee – should be examined by a doctor, as it is possible that infection may still be present.
These symptoms are also related to prostate issues, sexual infections and even cancer, so it’s important to rule these 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 particularly true for high-strength tablets such as ciprofloxacin which is used to treat severe UTIs. Common side effects include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, constipation as well as a loss of appetite.
These symptoms tend to subside over time, but a GP can prescribe painkillers to help manage the discomfort in the meantime. Moreover, three courses of antibiotics in a row will reduce the amount of ‘friendly’ bacteria in the gut, which can create stomach issues. Patients on long courses of antibiotics are often advised to take a daily probiotic to encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
For years I’ve suffered with acid reflux and, despite taking prescription drugs it’s getting worse. I was also diagnosed with Schatzki ring, which means I struggle to get food down. What can I do?
Dr Ellie replies: A Schatzki ring is an extra circle of muscle at the bottom of the oesophagus – the food pipe linking the throat and the stomach. This means it is narrower and tighter, making swallowing and eating difficult.
These rings are more common in people over 50. However, a Schatzki ring can be triggered by acid reflux – also known as heartburn. This is where acid
from the stomach rises into the oesophagus, triggering uncomfortable inflammation.
Over time this can cause the lining of the oesophagus to thicken, creating a Schatzki ring. Patients with these are often advised to eat soft food with plenty of water.
Chewing food properly until it is mashed should also help.
However, the condition can be treated with surgery – a procedure called dilation stretches the oesophagus open.
This is done under sedation and a GP would first need to refer the patient on to a specialist. A GP can also provide a number of treatments to combat heartburn. The most common is a type of drug called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole. Other options include diet changes.
- Write to Dr Ellie. Do you have a question for Dr Ellie Cannon? Email DrEllie@mailonsunday.co.uk
- Dr Cannon cannot enter into personal correspondence and her replies should be taken in a general context.
How wives are turning into unpaid psychotherapists
Termed ‘mankeeping’, experts say the phenomenon places an unfair emotional burden on women
A fascinating study has been published about men’s mental health, which I’m sure will prove controversial.
According to US researchers, women are increasingly acting as their husbands’ unpaid psychotherapist because of their refusal to talk to their friends – that’s if they have any – about their feelings.
Termed ‘mankeeping’, experts say the phenomenon places an unfair emotional burden on women.
Given that men are more prone to mental illness and suicide, I think this is a really important aspect we may be missing. After all, what happens to the men who don’t have women in their lives to confide in?
Equally, many might argue that women shouldn’t have to 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.
