Ask The Nurse Lady A Question!




Naval rash

Kelsey wrote:
I Just Got My Belly Button Pierced A Week Ago And Around It A Rash Is StartingTo Form. Is It Infected? Can I Be Allergic To Bactine?

Dear Kelsey,
It sounds like a possble allergic reaction to something, possibly the bactine. Stop using the bactine for a while and see if it goes away. Wash with an antibacterial soap and keep the area dry. If it does not go away, becomes worse, or you develop symptoms like swelling, pus or foul odor see your physician.

Nurselady

Filed Under: Allergies, Health, Infections



Impetigo revisited

Louise Witonsky wrote:
A child has been diagnosed with impetigo and prescribed with antibiotics. What exactly is impetigo? Can one get impetigo from playing in the soil? Most importantly, are there any other remedies besides antibiotics to cure it? Some over the counter or health food alternatives?

Dear Louise,
Impetigo is a bacterial infection caused by strept or staph and is very contagious. It usually occurs around the mouth or nose where skin irritation has already occurred. Over the counter antibiotic ointments will usually clear it up but sometimes oral antibiotics are needed. There is a post on this site titled Impetigo if you would like to read further.
Nurselady

Filed Under: Health



Naval piercing bump

Rebekah wrote:
I just got my belly button pierced a week ago and a little bump is starting to take root, close to the piercing. Is this normal?

Dear Rebekah,

I have seen this problem several times. It seems that sometimes the bump goes away with warm compresses and other times there was a need for medical attention. I would recommend that you call the facility where you had the piercing done and speak with them first.

Nurselady

Filed Under: Health, Skin Problems



How To Stop Picking Scabs

Jenna wrote:
i have a strong urge to keep picking at my scabs but i know that its not good for my skin. do you have any suggestions for how to quit cuz its a habit at this point.

Dear Jenna,
Yes, picking at scabs is a bad habit and will form scarring. I suggest you cover it with a dry bandage during your waking hours and remove it before going to bed. This way it protects the scab from you picking at it and also allows it to get air at night and continue to heal.
Nurselady

Filed Under: Health, Skin Problems