Question:

I have brown growths in the palm of my hands, but they are not warts. They are spreading in my hands, and they feel like lumps. They never hurt before, but now they are starting to hurt. They start off by looking like brown holes in my hand. I've been to the doctor, and they gave me some cream, thinking they were warts, but it doesn't work, and it makes them sensitive and sore. Please give me a clue as to what is going on with my hands. Help me!

Answer:

This is not something we can help you with through a newspaper article. Rashes and/or skin problems can be tricky, especially when the clinician can't see them and has to rely on a written description. We suggest that, since the problem is no better, you go back to your doctor. Or you can call University Health Services at 863-0774 for an appointment with a primary care clinician.

Question:

Can being in contact with someone who has shingles or chicken pox cause viral meningitis?

Answer:

The most common viruses found in cases of viral meningitis are the enteroviruses (85 to 95 percent of cases in which the virus is isolated). The chicken pox/shingles virus, or varicella virus, is a member of the herpes class of viruses.

These are not generally associated with meningitis but are very rarely (0.1 to 0.2 percent of those with chicken pox) associated with encephalitis or inflammation of the brain. If you are in contact with someone with shingles or chicken pox, and you have never had chicken pox or the varicella vaccine, there is a chance that you may contract chicken pox, but your chances of developing encephalitis are extremely low. This is a complicated answer to a complex issue. If you need more specific information, please contact Ellen Nagy at 865-6555. You will be connected to a physician who can discuss it in more detail.

Question:

Are all vaginal infections caused by yeast?

Answer:

Not all vaginal infections are caused by yeast. In fact, bacteria, not yeast, cause bacterial vaginosis, the most common form of vaginal infection. It may also be more serious than a yeast infection and can be associated with an increased chance of gynecological problems.

Please note: Yeast infection treatments can't cure bacterial vaginosis. The products to treat yeast only work against yeast, not bacteria. So before you treat yourself with an over-the-counter medication for yeast infection, carefully consider your symptoms.

Unpleasant vaginal odor could be a sign of a bacterial infection. Bacterial vaginosis usually has an unpleasant odor and thin, milky white or gray discharge. If you have any symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, consult your health care provider.

This needs to be treated with a prescription medication. Feminine hygiene products, such as deodorants and douches, can only hide odor temporarily; they can even make things worse by changing the protective environment of the vagina.

Yeast symptoms are different, usually involving intense itching and a thick, cottage cheese-like discharge. There is usually no odor.