I’m 20 years old and I’ve been suffering from skin problems for a long time. I have a fungal infection on my thighs, which goes away for a while and then reappears. I also have a layer formed on my face and cheeks now, and I experience a burning sensation on my forehead when the climate is cool. For the past two weeks, I have been feeling itchy as though I’m allergic to some food. Is this all because of the fungal infection? I also get a cold and headaches often.— Sandeep Reddy
Fungal infections are recurrent in some people and this can be because of stopping the treatment prematurely and not completing the course. In recurring fungal infections, it is also important to rule out diabetes or any immuno suppressive condition. The patch on your thigh and the patches on your face may or may not be related. Usually fungal infection patches are itchy and are unlikely to cause a burning sensation when exposed to cold, unless they are excoriated and oozing. The itching due to a fungal infection is usually limited to the affected area. Fungal infections do not have any relation to the food we consume. Your flare ups of generalized itching and other symptoms of cold and headache are not related to a fungal infection. The patches on your face and the generalized itching could be related to the winter season, which can cause dryness resulting in itching. I would advise you to seek a dermatologist’s opinion to identify and treat the cause of your recent symptoms, as well as to review the patch on your thigh. - Dr Lakshmi Sharada, Consultant Dermatologist CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills
I am 32 years old. I get disturbing dreams at night and sometimes, they recur the next day along with a headache. As a result, I don’t feel fresh in the mornings. Please help. — Kumar
First, try to think of the triggers for these nightmares. They could range from eating foods, which are difficult to digest, immedately before sleep, difficulty in breathing, or even certain medications that you may have started recently. Another cause could be a minor medical condition that can be ruled out by your doctor. Do consult a mental health specialist.- Dr K. Prashant, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Yashoda Hospital
