Healthwise    April 2009     

Healthwise is a regular column written especially for laterlife.com members and visitors. Welcome to healthwise 109.

For previous articles in the healthwise series visit 'more healthwise'

ECZEMA CAUSE

Too much washing with soap can lead to eczema. This is the conclusion of a report just out from scientists at the University of Edinburgh.

Eczema cases have risen by 40 per cent in the last four years and it is now one of the most chronic conditions to affect the English population.

The scientists say they believe that while some people have a genetic predisposition towards developing eczema, excessive bathing and use of detergents can wear away at the natural defences of the skin leading to an increased occurrence of eczema.

HELP FOR DEMENTIA SUFFERERS

There has been a lot of news recently about dementia, when memory loss and confusion can destroy people’s lives. There are currently around 750,000 dementia sufferers in Britain.

Now a special new camera is being developed which could help boost the memory of dementia sufferers. It is called the SenseCam and it is worn around the neck to chart daily activities. The camera takes photographs every 30 seconds or whenever it detects a change in light, body heat or activity, and captures the everyday images that a healthy brain usually stores as a memory.

These images are then played back at high speed to stimulate the patient’s memory and help to recreate the emotions attached to the day’s activities.

So far there have been some good results; in one trial a patient who would forget events within days found she could retain memories for months after events had been replayed on the SenseCam. Further trials are underway.

COLD COMFORT

After a sprain or a strain, it is now common practice to teach RICE – rest, ice compression and elevation. This can reduce the sensation of pain and inflammation and  speed up healing processes. However, when an injury occurs fumbling around with frozen packs of peas from the ice compartment isn’t always the best solution. Now there is a commercial product available which could be a useful addition to your first aid kit or sports bag.

It’s called Ice Bandage and comes in a small silver pack. Inside there is a moist bandage which will cool the site of the injury for up to two hours, longer than most ice packs, gels and sprays. It  costs just £3.91 and is available from independent pharmacies nationwide.

IN THE SADDLE

A urology consultant at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London says that male cyclists are at risk if they use the wrong saddle.

Cycling can restrict blood flow and generate excessive heat which can be damaging and lead to erectile problems. Cycling can also put pressure on nerves which can affect a man’s sperm count. According to the research, more than 60 per cent of male cyclists experience genital numbness and mountain bikers are particularly at risk.

The report concludes that it is very important that men use bikes with padded saddles, plus they need to take regular rest periods when cycling and also choose lower gears when possible.

If in any doubt about any of the information covered in healthwise articles and it's relevance for you, consult your GP.

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