Question 1

I've been dealing with this rash and a burning feeling around my neck and it's starting to spread. I'm currently using Acivir Cream, but I'm just worried it's not enough or if there's something else I should be trying. Is this the right treatment for what's going on, or should I consider seeing someone in person?

Accepted Answer

visit dermatologist for evaluation and appropriate management

Question 2

I've been worried about a leech bite I got on a trek back in late September. It was just a small bite on my left leg, but instead of drying up like the ones on my right foot, it seems to be getting bigger and a bit darker. It's been over two months, and I'm not sure if it's turning into an infection because I feel a slight pain when I press on it. I've been using turmeric and coconut oil, but it doesn't seem to help much. Should I be concerned? Is there something else I should do to treat it?

Accepted Answer

The leech bite on your left leg that has not completely dried out even after two months and is slowly getting bigger and blacker may indeed be infected. The slight pain when you press on it also suggests inflammation. I recommend cleaning the area with antiseptic solution and applying an antibiotic ointment like Neosporin twice a day. Additionally, you can take an oral antibiotic like Amoxicillin 500mg three times a day for 7-10 days to help clear up the infection. Make sure to keep the area clean and dry, and avoid scratching or picking at the bite. If the infection does not improve or if you develop fever or worsening symptoms, please seek medical attention promptly.

Question 3

I'm currently taking finasteride 1mg and using minoxidil 5%, and I'm wondering if it's okay to add ashwagandha 500mg to the mix. From what I've gathered, ashwagandha can reduce inflammation and lower cortisol, which could be linked to DHT formation, but it also might boost testosterone levels. I'm trying to figure out if this combo might help keep my testosterone levels balanced. Lately, I've been noticing some muscle loss, inflammation, and fatigue, so I'm a bit worried if I might have low T. Can you give me some guidance on this?

Accepted Answer

You're considering adding ashwagandha to your existing regimen of finasteride and minoxidil.

Ashwagandha's Effects on Testosterone and DHT

1. Testosterone Increase: Ashwagandha may help increase testosterone levels, which could potentially counterbalance the testosterone-reducing effects of finasteride.
2. DHT Reduction: Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties might help reduce DHT levels, which could complement the DHT-reducing effects of finasteride.
3. Cortisol Reduction: Ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties can help reduce cortisol levels, which may contribute to a decrease in DHT formation.

Potential Benefits of the Combination

1. Balanced Testosterone Levels: The combination of finasteride (reducing DHT) and ashwagandha (potentially increasing testosterone) might help maintain balanced testosterone levels.
2. Reduced Inflammation: Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties could complement the anti-inflammatory effects of minoxidil, potentially leading to reduced inflammation and improved overall health.
3. Improved Muscle Mass and Fatigue: Ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties might help alleviate fatigue and improve muscle mass, although more research is needed to confirm this.

My lips have gotten thicker from biting them over the years. Is surgery the only way to fix this or are there other treatments? I'm worried about side effects or if the results might turn out worse, especially since it's getting more noticeable as I age and doesn't look great. What are my options?

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