Dear Dr. Jen,
I just had my warts removed on my feet. It has been several days now and I noticed the area to be super itchy! Is this normal? Can I soak it in hot water? I can’t stand the itchiness.
Mandy
Dear Mandy,
Itchiness after laser, cautery, or ongoing wound healing is actually a common symptom experienced by many. The best approach, unfortunately, entails leaving it alone. Soaking it in hot water may burn newly formed skin. Applying mentholated medication can irritate the skin. Taking an antihistamine along with application of a hypoallergenic moisturizer or petroleum jelly can go a long way to soothe the itching.
A few gentle reminders during the time of healing: don’t wear tight footwear, don’t peel off any scabs, and go to your doctor for a follow-up to ensure the wart is truly and totally gone.
Dear Dr. Jen,
My son has blisters on his palms and soles. It appeared yesterday and more rashes are appearing today. Some of them have pus and some look just like red dots. He doesn’t complain of itchiness but I am worried. I used to have very bad eczema before and took a long time for it to disappear. I don’t want my son to suffer like I did.
Bella
Dear Bella,
Check your son’s mouth? Are there any ulcers? Is there tonsillitis? There’s a condition caused by coxsackie virus that has symptoms similar to what you have described. It can be the start of hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD). In eczema, there is an undeniable presence of itchiness. You will see your son absentmindedly scratching his hands and feet. You can have it checked by your nearest PDS dermatologist.
HFMS, like all viral ailments, is self-limited and no amount of antibiotics will cure it. However, you can give supportive therapy by giving pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol to numb the pain. Cooking his favorite meals and letting him drink cold beverages will also help.
You can avoid spreading the virus by cessation the sharing of straws, glasses, utensils and kissing for the meantime. Frequent hand washing also helps. Take heart, it will be gone in a few days.
Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to askskinrepublic@gmail.com; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.