Hi, The most common side-effects from taking oxytetracycline are loss of appetite, stomach ache, diarrhoea, and feeling or being sick. If you experience any of these, you should find they settle down within a few weeks. This antibiotic is not normally prescribed for longer than 3 months, so you shou...

Hi Linda, What you have described sounds really painful and if you haven't already done so I'd advise making another emergency appointment with your GP. I'd also stop using the Anusol, as it sounds as though it might be causing irritation or even an allergic reaction. For more information please fol...

Hi, The first thing I'd recommend is washing your hands with an emollient soap substitute, rather than soap or hand wash, as these contain harsh detergents that can damage the skin barrier and irritate the skin. For more information about these please see my previous post on the topic https://www.ta...

Hi Joanne,

I'm wondering how your PCOS is being treated, as once the hormonal imbalance associated with the condition is addressed your acne should improve.

Hi Antony, When I wrote the book '50 Things You can Do Today to Manage Eczema' I sought the opinion of Helen Pugsley, a senior dermatology lecturer at Cardiff University, as to whether it is safe to use hydrocortisone cream on the face. She told me up to one per cent hydrocortisone cream is safe to ...

Hi Laura, I'm sorry to hear about your son's eczema. Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by skin irritation caused by chemicals, such as the detergents, perfumes and other chemicals in bubble baths, shampoos, washing powders and fabric softeners. I would recommend using emollient soap substitutes (e.g...

Hi Catts, Normal soap and hand wash contain detergents that weaken the skin’s protective barrier causing irritation and inflammation, as well as perfumes and other chemicals that can further irritate your skin. Every time you wash your hands you're not only removing any emollient you've previously a...

Hi, When it comes to gluten It's important that you don't jump to conclusions too quickly without ruling out other possible IBS triggers. Many people cut out gluten thinking they'll be healthier, but the truth is, unless you have a firm diagnosis of a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, it won't ...

Hi Lisa Caroline, It seems you've already worked out that your medications are probably causing your constipation. You are also doing the right things diet-wise by eating high-fibre foods and drinking plenty of fluids. Physical activity is also important for maintaining regular bowel movements. I wo...

Hi, It sounds like the diarrhoea occurs when you're feeling stressed. Stress is often involved in IBS. This is because the gut and brain are linked via the nervous system and constantly exchange messages.This means that whatever affects your brain also affects your gut. This is why some people have ...