ASK THE DOCTOR

Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your questions

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WHAT’S WRONG WITH MY HANDS?

Q A few days ago, I developed tiny blisters on my palms that were really itchy and then the skin in that area became very dry and flaky. I have never had anything like this before and I’m not sure what it is or what I can do about it?

A This sounds like pompholyx eczema (also called dyshidrotic eczema). It can be triggered by stress, excessive sweating or contact with irritants, like soaps, detergents or other chemicals. Ask your chemist about hydrocortisone cream (which you can get over-the-counter) — this should be applied thinly to dry palms twice a day. Soap may well exacerbate the problem, so use emollients to wash and hydrate the skin.

How quickly can food poisoning start?

Q I was out with my friends two nights ago. I had a paella with prawns and within half an hour, I felt so unwell that I had to leave. I was violently sick that night and the day after. It has settled now, but I'm left feeling completely washed out. Could this be food poisoning?

A The symptoms of food poisoning can start anything from 30 minutes to a few days after you have eaten contaminated food. For the symptoms to occur so quickly after eating, it was likely caused by the bacteria staphylococcus aureus. You should tell the restaurant about your symptoms. You should stay off work until 48 hours after you feel well, but if your job involves handling food, speak to your employer first.

UNEXPLAINED PAIN