The best way to clean a cut, scrape or puncture wound (such as from a nail) is with cool water. You can hold the wound under running water or fill a tub with cool water or pour it from a cup over the wound. Click here to read more...

 

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Last week, a brief description of Lyme disease was discussed in this column. Brief mention was made of how you feel if you develop the illness, what to do if you have a tick bite, and whether you should get vaccinated. This week, the more important item will be discussed - avoiding tick bites altogether and hence Lyme disease. Click here to read more...

 

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Poison ivy, oak, and sumac belong to a family of plants that produce one of the most common allergic reactions in the United States. Experts estimate that up to 70% of the population is allergic to urushiol, the oil found in the sap of these plants. The reaction, known as allergic contact dermatitis or Rhus dermatitis, occurs when urushiol attaches itself to the skin after a person’s direct or indirect exposure to the oil. Click here to read more...

 

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