Week of August 10- Tinea Versicolor, Asthma
- Sinus infections and asthma are the big story in Palm Springs this week. Dr. Clifton Cole reminds us that asthma can be triggered by dry air, including air conditioning. People should see their doctor if their symptoms are persistent. In the meantime, staying hydrated is incredibly important right now, and will actually help people with asthma and sinus infections. Ask you doctor about the whooping cough vaccine and if you're a candidate. Adds Dr. Cole, "I have had a couple of senior patients ask for the whooping cough vaccination after seeing the feature on TV."
- Several cases of tinea versicolor were diagnosed by pediatrician Dr. Vivien Pacold this week in Cathedral City. These hypopigmented spots on the skin are caused by a fungus/yeast infection. This is common with summer heat, sweating and humidity. It is easily treated, but has to be looked at by a doctor to really determine the best way to treat it.
- Bronchitis is the number one complaint among Dr. Andrew Cyrus' patients in Palm Desert. Swimmer's ear is still going around, and those with a tendency to pick up urinary tract infections are having a tough time.
- Heading to the east valley, Dr. Randolph Gibbs at the Mecca clinic turns our attention to mosquito bites. He's seen several cases of children with many bites received while playing outside after sundown. He tells us he always has to consider the possibility of west nile. "Transmission is through a bite from an adult mosquito and the virus is maintained in an enzootic mosquito-bird-mosquito cycle." Symptoms to watch out for include nausea, chills and fatigue. Use mosquito repellent, and learn how to stay away from mosquito breeding grounds. Dr. Gibbs also tells us he's seen an increase in irritant and allergic contact dermatitis. This time of year, watch out for poison ivy, poison oak or sumac, as well as nickel, wool, balsam of Peru, and fragrances. Patch testing may be necessary.
- Dr. Seema Bir is still seeing cases of cough with bronchitis among adults in Cathedral City. She can't rule out whooping cough because of its prevalence in Riverside County and around California. Depending on how patients are feeling, and exposure to high-risk patients, antibiotics may be needed. Ear infections related to swimming are still an issue.
- A viral upper respiratory infection has hit La Quinta. People are staying sick for about 10 days. It comes with congestion, post nasal drip and a throat irritation. Time will mostly take care of this one. Strep throat is still making the rounds, according to Dr. Erica Ruiz, with the young and old affected. Antibiotic treatment is important to help resolve this and help your sore throat feel better.
Watch "What's Going Around" every Tuesday evening on KPSP Local 2 News at 6:00 p.m. and every Wednesday morning on KPSP Local 2 This Morning at 6:45 a.m.
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