Winter, 2000

Genetics, or environment? Everyone suffers from dry skin at some point, and to some degree genes play a role, but we can't change that. What we can do is alter our environment and behavior to help.

So, what exactly is dry skin? Experts say that this umbrella term may apply to several disorders, but the most common, or typical, dry skin occurs when the top layer of our skin becomes itchy, and flaky. In extreme cases, this layer, the Stratum Corneum, can become cracked and scaly. What usually preserves the balance of moisture is oil & fluid from underlying tissues and our sebaceous (sweat) glands.

At this time of year, low humidity from cold dry outside air, and dry interior heated air can be the biggest threat to your skin's moisture. Other factors include genetics, age, altitude, sun exposure, and shower habits. Oddly, water can actually rob your skin of moisture- bathing for long periods of time, or in overly hot water can actually be harming your moisture balance. Lastly, chemicals in soaps, cleaners, and solvents can lead to "dishpan hands", common among the medical and nursing professions.

So what can be done?

The short answer is moisturize, abundantly and often. Especially just after a shower/bath to seal in moisture. As a general rule, the thicker a product, the more oils it contains, and the more beneficial it will be. As for bath oils, add them after you are in- so that they do not coat your skin and prevent it from becoming saturated.

Other measures you can take: Don't bathe/shower too long- hot water can draw oils out of skin. Don't use too much soap- overwashing with soap can harm the skin's outer layer. Don't use abrasives- washcloths, loofah sponges, brushes, and other course scrubbers leave skin dryer. Raise humidity levels- as a general rule, 60% humidity is ideal, anything less progressively harms the skin's moisture balance. Also keep in mind that as for cosmetics, acme remedies, and other skin care products, alcohol-based products dry skin while oil-based products tend to moisturize.

Finally, there is one sure way to avoid dry skin in the winter months, head for the tropics.

Fall, 2000

It's that time of year again. The flu, or influenza virus, usually peaks between the months of October and April. Just in time for back to school. There are two main strains, A and B, which appear each year with just enough changes to remain a problem. With either strain, symptoms usually include fever, sore throat, dry cough, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

So, is there such a thing as a 24 hour flu? Well, not usually. The rapid onset of diarrhea and vomitting referred to as a 24 hour flu is often a viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract, or "gastroenteritis". Influenza infections typically produce high fever and aches and pains which last 3-6 days, leaving in their wake coughing, sore throats, and fatigue for several weeks.

Another myth is that coldness or being cold causes flu. The reality is that while chills often accompany the fever, repeated studies show that temperature plays no role in infection.

Finally, using medication to surpress fever may not help to banish flu, and instead, while you may feel more comfortable, some experts feel that interferring with your immune systems response, (the fever), may actually allow the virus to torment you longer.

So what can be done? Experts seem to agree on rest and fluids, and yearly flu shots for those at high risk. In any case, consult your physician for proper medical advice. undoubtedly there will be some empty seats in class this fall again. Whether this absenteeism is flu related or not, we leave to parents.

Summer, 2000

Ever hear of tossing in some oatmeal to your cool-soak bath? To help remedy your sunburn after a great day at the beach try wrapping some oatmeal in a piece of cheesecloth or gauze, run water through and soak yourself for about 15 to 20 minutes. When you get out, let the water dry naturally on your skin so that you don't wipe off the oatmeal. You can try the same thing with baking soda. Either way, definitely skip the washcloth and bath sponge and email us at HealthSolutions@JurisSolutions.com and let us know how it works for you.