Being Diagnosed With Shingles

Some of Dr. Clifton Cole's patients in Palm Springs are running fevers and missing work because of a summer cold, that has been lingering in this part of the valley. Most people recover after three days of rest and fluid, but if you or a loved one has a significant cough or persistent fever, you should see a doctor. And this being summer-time in the desert, Dr. Cole recommends to everyone, not just those who are ill, to drink more water. That can keep you healthy and avoid dehydration.

A few cases of strep throat have showed up in Dr. Daniel Fraschetti's La Quinta and Yucca Valley offices. The one throat infection that really needs an antibiotic starts with a moderate to severe sore throat, sometimes a fever, and spots on the tonsils. Swimmer's ear is on the rise, reports Nurse Practitioner Gabrielle Schwilk. Symptoms include a painful ear that hurts to the touch, but no fever. "Prevention includes the use over over the counter drops after swimming or use of ear plugs, " says Schwilk. And rashes in general are also on the rise, from contact rashes, to insect bites and eczema. Treatment varies so see your doctor for an evaluation.

Dr. Randolph Gibbs has noticed a resurgence of herpes simplex type one at the Mecca Clinic, which usually involves the inside of the mouth or lips. Healing starts in three to four days, but can last up to two weeks. Oral and topical antiviral agents are used for treatment, but ice pops and ice cream can provide some relief. Finally, Dr. Gibbs has diagnosed several cases of acute bacterial sinusitis which manifests as fever, nasal discharge and facial pressure. "Decongestants, steroids and saline irrigation may relieve symptoms, but antibiotics may be indicated for up to 14 days."

Swimmer's ear continues to be a common complaint for Dr. Andrew Cyrus' patients in Palm Desert. A lack of water can lead to urinary tract infections this time of year, and positive strep throat cultures are still an issue. That needs to be treated with antibiotics.

In Rancho Mirage Dr. Sara Azar saw several cases of a viral syndrome with fever, diarrhea, muscle aches and fatigue. This is contagious and cannot be treated with antibiotics, so Dr. Azar suggests sticking with "supportive measures" like Tylenol for fever, plenty of fluids and rest. Dehydration is always a problem this time of year. Just running errands in the heat can get you into trouble, so keep water handy wherever you go, and avoid a trip to the emergency room. And the whooping cough vaccine is mandatory for grades seven through 12 this year, but is also approved for adults, so talk to your doctor to see if you would benefit from it.

Also in Rancho Mirage Dr. Carol Renke tells us about a few patients who thought they'd been bitten by spiders, but ended up being diagnosed with shingles. The pain associated with this virus can last for months, but there are a few medications that can help, as well as a new vaccination called Zostavax that can prevent patients older than 60 from getting this.

In Palm Springs Dr. Edmund Ayoub has noticed an increase in foot pain that can be caused by running on the hard pavement and hardscape of the desert. The microtears from plantar fasciitis feel worse at the end of the day. Finally, watch your water intake. Dehydration is prevalent this time of year.