Answered by V. Srikanth Reddy

How to manage sebaceous cysts?

Hello doctor,

I got a fat lump-like structure just below the neck and above the chest due to unwanted hair removal. There is no pus or blood. There is a needle poke-like pain sensation for a few days. What can I do topically or orally to reduce or shrink this and prevent it from returning?

Thank you.

19 Mar 2024 - 1 min read

Could my initial genital herpes diagnosis be a misdiagnosis, considering negative recent tests?

Hello doctor,

I am reaching out regarding a situation last year when I developed a small genital ulcer and was diagnosed with genital herpes after consulting multiple doctors who held differing opinions. Alongside this, I experienced swollen lymph nodes. I underwent both blood (IgG and IgM) and swab tests at that time. The blood tests were negative for HSV-1 and HSV-2 (presumably due to recent exposure), but the swab/PCR returned positive for HSV-2.

I had my boyfriend tested, revealing HSV-1 IgG levels of 27.3 and HSV-2 IgG of 3.73, both positive, with the HSV-2 level relatively low. His IgM levels were negative. I started a daily Valtrex regimen and believed I had two subsequent outbreaks. I tested both times (blood and swab), with all results returning negative except for Mono, which showed positive in the IgG test conducted four months back. My most recent herpes test this week indicates IgG levels of 1 for HSV-1 (borderline negative) and completely negative for HSV-2 (below 0.5).

I am curious to know if you think there might have been a misdiagnosis, and if my boyfriend's HSV-2 result could be a false positive given his known HSV-1 oral status. Additionally, could mono have contributed to a genital lesion? Please clarify.

Thank you.

07 Mar 2024 - 1 min read

What are the different types of hair loss?

Hi doctor,

I am a 30 year old female. I have been having hair loss for a year.

1. Could you please explain the different types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, and alopecia areata, and their respective causes?
2. What are the most common causes of hair loss, both in men and women, and how can one determine the underlying cause of their hair loss?
3. What are the typical symptoms and signs of hair loss, and how can one distinguish between normal hair shedding and excessive hair loss?
4. What treatment options are available for different types of hair loss?
5. Are there specific hair care practices and products that can help prevent or minimize hair loss?
6. How can I care for my hair to promote its health and growth?

Thank you.

14 Feb 2024 - 1 min read

How to manage and prevent premature graying of hair in early thirties?

Hello doctor,

I am a 30 year old female. I would like to know a few things about premature graying of hair. Could you please provide an overview of what premature graying of hair is and explain the possible causes? What are the typical symptoms and signs of premature graying, and how can one distinguish it from natural age-related graying? How significant is the role of genetics in premature graying, and is it possible to predict or prevent it if it runs in the family? Are there specific nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 or copper, that can contribute to premature graying? How do lifestyle choices, such as smoking, stress, and exposure to environmental pollutants, contribute to premature graying, and what lifestyle changes can help prevent it? Are there recommended hair care practices and products that can help slow down or manage premature graying, such as specialized shampoos or treatments? What are the potential risks and benefits of using hair dyes or coloring products to cover premature graying, and are there natural alternatives? What strategies can be employed to prevent or delay the onset of premature graying, and are there dietary or lifestyle modifications that can be beneficial?

Thank you.

14 Feb 2024 - 1 min read

Why the pimples in my twenty-year-old son does not improve on treatment?

Hello doctor,

My son is in his twenties and is facing a common issue at this age - pimples. He has dry skin. He has undergone many treatments for this and spent so much money on this. But I can see no improvement in his condition. Instead, I feel they are worsening each day rather than subsiding. Can this be treated? Can you suggest any topical medications?

23 Jan 2024 - 1 min read