Q. This summer I want to wear a bikini to the beach. But when I shave in that area I get ugly red bumps. What can I use to keep this from happening?
A. Dermatologists call bikini bumps pseudofolliculitis barbae. When coarse hairs grow back, they may curl down and become trapped under the skin. This creates the bumps you see. Men may experience similar “razor bumps” from frequent shaving.
To minimize infection, wash the area first with soap and water. Products such as Hydroglide and Razor Rash Relief (www.mooreunique.com) may help soften the hair for easier shaving and prevent post-shaving irritation.
After shaving, a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream may reduce inflammation. Some dermatologists also suggest a topical antibiotic similar to those used to treat acne to lower the risk of infection.
A longer lasting approach might be to have the hair in that area removed by laser. This works well for dark hair.
Q. Is it possible that NSAIDs can make you spacey and anxious? My doctor recommended ibuprofen for a bad back and knee. I think this drug makes me jittery. When I complained about nervousness, he prescribed alprazolam which I have been taking every day for several months.
A different doctor told me to stop alprazolam because I could get addicted. This is the fourth day without it and I don’t like the way I feel. Even my handwriting is affected. Please send me some information about these drugs.
A. Pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac may make some folks anxious or drowsy or affect concentration.
The doctor is correct that long-term use of anti-anxiety drugs like alprazolam, diazepam or lorazepam can cause dependency. But suggesting that you stop cold turkey might be considered irresponsible. Withdrawal symptoms such as exaggerated anxiety, lightheadedness, agitation and difficulty concentrating can be extremely distressing.
Ask your doctor to help you reduce the dose of the medicine gradually. To give you more information about NSAIDs and nervousness as well as withdrawal from anti-anxiety drugs, we are sending you our Guide to Psychological Side Effects. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. M-21, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.
Q. Can you recommend anything for mouth ulcers? I’ve tried Listerine, Anbesol and Kanka, but nothing helped. I am a denture wearer and every time I put the teeth back in, they irritate my mouth all over again.
A. Listerine contains 26.9 percent alcohol, which can be irritating. Anbesol and Kanka contain a local anesthetic called benzocaine. Some people are sensitive to this compound and it might make the irritation worse.
A different option is UlcerEase (800-334-4286), which contains no alcohol. It is used for canker sores, mouth ulcers resulting from chemotherapy and irritation from braces or dentures. Ultimately, though, getting dentures that fit properly may be the best solution.
Q. Do you have any data on the use of xylitol gum for ear problems?
A. Pediatricians in Finland found that children who chewed gum sweetened with xylitol several times a day were 40 percent less likely than controls to develop ear infections (Pediatrics, Oct. 1998).
The People's Perspective on Medicine