I found aproduct on the web called certain dri.i am tring to find out where i can get this product and I am located in ny city. I f you have any info for me let me khow

ali <ali-vegas1@hotmail.com> from nyf-ny-cache1.netcom.net on Tuesday, September 28, 1999 at 23:52:05

dear doc i have very bad acne i have tried everything from over the counter to infomercial products to perscription remedies and nothing seems to help and it seems like it takes months for one pimple to go away please help me thank you

suneshine <suneshine1@webtv.net> from proxy-553.public.rwc.webtv.net on Tuesday, September 28, 1999 at 22:04:12

Dear Doc, I have been having a problem with numbness in my right side from my right front around my hip and onto my back.There was no pain at first, just the numbness. I have seen a chiropractor and he seems to think that it is related to a pinched nerve. He has given me three adjustments and while this has helped me immeasurably in my upper back, the numbness is still there. I began to feel pain in my lower back two days ago and went to another doctor today who, after an x-ray informes me that my colon and large intestines are impacted. I have taken a remedy for that and am feeling better as things begin to "move'. Could this be the cause of the numbness that I have been experiencing? Do you think it will go away? How long should I let the numbness continue before consulting another doctor? Thanks, Leslie

Leslie <kstar@mindspring.com> from user-2ivesks.dialup.mindspring.com on Tuesday, September 28, 1999 at 07:31:42

im on accutatne and i was wondering if it might leave scaring

sean <bulky boy.webtv.net> from proxy-343.public.rwc.webtv.net on Monday, September 27, 1999 at 03:39:52

I would like to chat with you about Malaria. I am doing a college research project and am required to interview a doctor. Please e-mail me as soon as possible on this subject matter whether you have info on Malaria or not. Thank You very much.

Jennifer Senn <sennjennifer@hotmail.com> from spider-pa011.proxy.aol.com on Sunday, September 26, 1999 at 04:34:58

Almost 4 months ago, I had sex for the first time. We have used a condom everytime when he became fully erect. My boyfriend never ejaculated inside me. I bled the second time we had sex. Since I had sex for the first time, I have not had my period. I have taken a pregnancy test, and it was negative. Yet I still have not gotten my period. Is this normal? Should I take another pregnancy test?

Jane Dizoe <marsorbiter@yahoo.com> from client-141-156-127-202.bellatlantic.net on Saturday, September 25, 1999 at 05:10:05

I have something on the heel of my right foot only. It started about 5 months ago. Acted like there was something inside of it. It itches terrible and then I get little blisters that when I pop them, pink liquid comes out of the blister. I have had an altrasound, x-rays and just two days ago, an MRI. All these test come back showing there is nothing inside of my heal. I have tried everything that I can possible think of, and nothing helps. I have gone to my family doctor, a foot doctor and now being referred to a dermatoligist. Do you have any idea what this could possible be? Thank you

Bailey <cntrybumpkins@yahoo.com> from ppp88.oec.mwt.net on Thursday, September 16, 1999 at 06:23:39

I was treated for tinea versicolor and the doctor I saw gave me nizorol to cure my rash, this drug cured me temporarily however the rash comes back when I quit taking the nizorol.What do you recomend I use so i don't have to keep taking drugs, because nizorol is real spendy It's like 65.00 for ten pills. please tell me something better.

john pharr <johnp@power-house.com> from 206.147.206.113 on Thursday, August 12, 1999 at 20:19:51

Hi Dr. Chan. Would you be able to tell me the symptoms for the Foot and Mounth Disease. thanks.

Bob <undead_sithlord@hotmail.com> from 203.166.245.115 on Sunday, August 08, 1999 at 16:54:15

I have raised spots on my back - these have no puss in them but are similar to pimples. I do get pimples on my back although these other spots are more prominent and harder. I have seen a dermo before and he said it was related to asthma in the family. Please give me advice and maybe any treatments. Thank you.

Andrew <akdickson@yahoo.com> from proxy.primus.com.au on Sunday, August 08, 1999 at 16:26:45

Can you please send me info about Decca

Justin <Fundip81@aol.com> from 206.154.143.9 on Friday, July 30, 1999 at 20:43:29

Dear Doc, How can I effectively remove hair from my pubic area and also my genitals? I have a problem with my genitals itching when I sweat(not from crabs) and I have had some success with shaving but it does not last long and the hair seems to grow back faster. Is there anything you can suggest? Surgery would have to be a last resort. Thanks, Erick

Erick Hoyt <erick@usaopoly.com> from 207.137.161.208 on Friday, July 16, 1999 at 00:55:26

Can you tell me whether or not benecol, lipitor and/or rogaine can cause hair loss? Pat

Pat <ptomt@bgnet.bgsu.edu> from dialup-76.tnt-1.tol.glasscity.net on Thursday, July 15, 1999 at 21:52:10

Hi, I am a 32 year old women who suffers from excessive underarm sweating, I have recently had extensive testing done to make sure it is not due to any serious medical condition. I have recently read about a condition called Axillary hyperhydrosis and botox injections solve this problem I live in canada and no one here knows anything about this injection. Desperately seeking your help and waiting with wet underarms...............

hcinder <hcinder@hotmail.com> from proxy1.busy1.on.home.com on Thursday, July 15, 1999 at 09:55:01

Back in Europe, my dermatologist recommended I use soap with a pH of 3.5--and, literally, saved my skin. Ever since I moved stateside, however, I have not been able to find such a product. Could you kindly help me in finding a soap with pH 3.5, please?

Marjan <ba.marjan@worldnet.att.net> from 231.rochelle-park-08-09rs16rt.nj.dial-access.att.net on Saturday, July 10, 1999 at 02:44:36

I have a 3 yo son with a skin problem as follows: gets different size lums all over body that drain liquid. Extremly itchy. after the lumps deminish it forms a white round ruff patch that is itchy as well.Dermatoligist #1 persribed Empetic, to no avail. Then other Dr.'s dignose mosquito bites. Still no results to the problem. At present i am useing oxygenated water to aleviate the infection fowwloed by Lotrison. I am at a loss as i have axpended all my resources. If any Dr.'s have an answer plase fell free to contact me at (305)696-7018

Irela Baqedano from host-209-214-81-15.fll.bellsouth.net on Saturday, July 03, 1999 at 06:23:00

my grandmother is suffering from mouth sores which the doctors think may be and auto immune disease called phemagoid (not sure of the spelling) any information or even some place you can direct me to look would be appreciated.

kim durbin <durb@cros.net> from oh61.cros.net on Friday, July 02, 1999 at 09:40:26

suffered a spider bite while asleep on my hand beneath the joint of my little finger where it meets the hand on the lateral aspect. It developed red pustules around it. Went to the doctor. Was given tetracycline. Now skin is numb to the touch, firmer touch is very painful, experiencing joint pain in little finger, wrist, elbow, shoulder. Went to doctor, he suggested lancing the pustules. Did not do this. Do you know where there may be more information on spider bites? will this eventually just stop or will it continue to get worse? Thank-you!

Anna Khamsamran <indeep@samart.co.th> from ppp88.newmex.com on Sunday, June 27, 1999 at 21:00:20

Last week I had my normal OB appt(I am 35 weeks pregnant) and I had what I thought was a rash from an allergic reaction. It was around my eyes and on my neck. My OB thinks that the rash is a sign of Lupus. I am awaiting lab results but I had some questions about the rash. Is this classic "butterfly" rash ususally itchy? Does it burn when lotion is applied? Does it dry up and all the skin flakes off? Any info would be great. I have no other symtoms of Lupus(that I can think of). Still hoping for the best. I have very reactive skin and I know that I was touching new unwashed clothing. I also tend to rub my eyes a lot. Any chance this is just a skin reaction?

Mary <a&mlagor@ctinet.net> from user41.ctinet.net on Tuesday, June 22, 1999 at 04:43:06

My wife is thinking of trying out a session on a sunbed I don't seem to be able to get any independant advice from anyone about the short or long term health effects, please can you offer some helpful advice. Many thanks.

Anthony <anthony 007@ tinyonline.co.uk> from vip-204-117.vip.uk.com on Friday, June 18, 1999 at 02:19:43

I have had serious retina problems at a comparatively young age: when I was 22 I had to have laser treatment to repair tears in both retinas. I am, however, not a diabetic. Shortly I will be travelling to West Africa and have been prescribed mefloquine as a anti-malarial. I will be going for 4 weeks, so will have to take the drug for 11 weeks. I have read that mefloquine can affect the retinas, though normally with long time use. Given my personal history, how serious a threat would mefloquine pose to me? Jackie

Jackie <jmahieu@worldonline.nl> from vp233-251.worldonline.nl on Sunday, June 13, 1999 at 16:47:42

Doctor, I recently read an article on an Herb called Kwao Kruea. I am assumng it is a Thai herb and would like a direction to search for herbs pharmacutical uses along with folklore uses. I am doing a paper on homeopathic healing and the usages of herbs in history and would like any information you can give me, or give me a site that I can go to for research. Thanks in advance for any information, Rich in NY (USA)

Rich <Elderrose@prodigy.net> from pkseb108-19.splitrock.net on Sunday, June 06, 1999 at 03:34:31

Have you herd about a vacine that carries an active element that can cause polio in a child?

Esther <TLourenso@aol.com> from spider-ti054.proxy.aol.com on Thursday, May 27, 1999 at 10:20:35

I am 35 years old and have been on Accutane a total of three times. I am still experiencing acne and have been off the most recent course of treatment for about four weeks. I have considered Homeopathy but know very little about it, and am sceptical of any so called cures for acne since there seems to be thousands. Please help if you can. For your advice or guidance I would be eternaly greatfull! I am truly loosing hope and this problem is far reaching into every area of my life.

Jonathan Vitone <jonniev7@aol.com> from spider-tp032.proxy.aol.com on Monday, May 03, 1999 at 12:01:38

My 13 y.o. daughter has recently been diagnosed with systemic lupus with CNS complications. Recently her rheumatologists took particular interest in a large cluster of tiny moles on her abdomen near her umbilicus. This cluster has grown larger lately. Where it once had about 30 tiny moles, it now has probably closer to 80. They are varying shades of medium to light brown, flat, and ranging from the size of this asterisk * to the size of the period at the end of this sentence. Do these moles have a significance? If so, what?

Sandra <scroyle909@aol.com> from spider-to084.proxy.aol.com on Saturday, April 10, 1999 at 17:00:44

Could you lead us to any good, CONCISE information on communicative and behavioral norms within the Thai community? We are especially interested in dynamics relating to student interactions within the educational environment. THANK YOU!

Ginny Chiaverina <ginnyc@uwm.edu> from shaw.sac.uwm.edu on Tuesday, April 06, 1999 at 00:23:44

dear doctor after having received a series back injury herniating L4 L5 and just holding on till retirement, in one more year. would a regime of painkillers and steriords help me funtion and out of excruciating

mckenna <mckenn422> from spider-wg054.proxy.aol.com on Saturday, April 03, 1999 at 15:35:30

A Friend of mine was asking about a skin condition called dariaes. Any information you could give would be greatly apppreciated. Kym

kym Whitaker <kym29@hotmail.com> from 209.201.24.199 on Saturday, April 03, 1999 at 08:49:23

hi doc, what can you tell me about the availability of anabolic steriods and how i would order them from you area thanx

jim <jjb@intergate.bc.ca> from pm48s34.intergate.bc.ca on Wednesday, March 31, 1999 at 05:16:15

I am going to Thailand to do some health studies. do you have any information or know of any where that I can get statistics?

katy laurich <klaurich@hotmail.com> from hotel.uws.edu.au on Monday, March 15, 1999 at 11:33:37

Dr. Chan: I hope maybe you can offer me some advice, as I am at a loss. I have suffered with excess facial/body hair for 10 years at least. It is very embarassing, and I avoid all social situations, my self-esteem is non-existant. I have to shave my face twice a day, as other depilitories have been unsuccessful for the long run. I have heard of some success with Diane-35 in respect to excess hair. Please please help me, as this is my last hope. Thanks.

Christine <moongirl_20@hotmail.com> from edtntnt1-port-20.agt.net on Saturday, February 27, 1999 at 05:28:40

I missed the name and E-mail before. I am the one with the question about the knots. Thanks Lynne

lynne <fcb@getaway.net> from 216.77.53.243 on Wednesday, February 24, 1999 at 22:58:09

Dear Dr. I have big (what I call knots) under my armsmy breasts, and on my legs, and genital area. I have been to the Dr. many times, and he just gives me anitibiotics to clear them up. They hurt, they are filled with puss, and sometimes I have as many as 15 at one time. They are very big, and sometimes get so infected that they have red streaks running from them. Later they turn dark, and when they do erupt it leaves a very big scar. Please help me. The last time I went to the Dr. he told me my white blood count was elevated. I have had this problem for 20 years. Although now I am overweight, this started when I was within my own weight zone, of 135, and it has only gotten worse over the years. Thanks

from 216.77.53.243 on Wednesday, February 24, 1999 at 22:52:52

i want recommendations for a herbal remedy for fatigue; i have high blood pressure, so i know there are some i can't take. thanks

andy <amahoneyno@aol.com> from spider-th082.proxy.aol.com on Tuesday, February 23, 1999 at 01:11:02

I have heard of a drug which can be used in place of morphine which can be had legaly in a nose spray form. My interest in this is to prepare a kit for backpacking and survival y2k. I have not been able to find anything when asking drug stores or local doctors. The information came to me via a TV interview of a doctor advising backpackers.

J. Chumley <JEC899.aol.com> from spider-tj032.proxy.aol.com on Monday, February 01, 1999 at 04:21:28

can you tell me what you think the effects of retin-a-micro cream would be on stretch marks

rob <milenko33j@aol.com> from spider-wj063.proxy.aol.com on Sunday, January 31, 1999 at 16:19:17

I would like any information you would be able to provide relating to rectal pores or hair follicles at the external sphincter or anus. I have multiple areas that repeatedly become irritated and sometimes painful and would like to know if there is any treatment. It also seems that these areas fill up and reminds me of a blackhead that leaves a hole. It also appears that it involves the hair follicles. I would greatly appreciate any information related to this and suggested treatment. Thank-you for your time.

Susan <ginger@mint.net> from ddialup-w-97.mint.net on Wednesday, January 27, 1999 at 13:52:35

Hi Doc. I was wondering about permanant hair removal. I have an extremely hairy back. I heard about the process of permanat removal by disabling the hair folicles with a ruby laser. I have had a serrious self esteem problem all my life due to the hair growth on my back. I haven't even had a girlfriend in seven years because I am afraid of being rejected because of this problem. I wanted to know if it really is perminent, and about how much it would cost to treat my entire back. I would really appreciate your input. Thanks.

John <Sexygreeneyes@att.net> from 1cust172.tnt1.san-rafael.ca.da.uu.net on Sunday, January 10, 1999 at 10:18:36

After taking minomycin for two weeks to get rid of my acne I woke up to find my arms, legs and face to be covered in a rash which looked like mosquito bites. Over a few hours, the red spots got larger and joined together to form welts. They also seemed to puff up like blisters. By the end of the day I also had swollen joints in my fingers, knees and wrists and I could barely walk. The next day my eyes were swollen shut. My doctor doesn't know for sure what caused this but we think it was a reaction to the minomycin which I stopped taking. The rash disappeared 3days after stopping the tablets and the swelling went down another two days after that. Can you back up that the minomycin caused this reaction and what component of the drug do you think caused it? Is there anything else I could use to treat my acne?

Jessica <cjdan@upnaway.com.au> from drayan.upnaway.com on Tuesday, January 05, 1999 at 16:59:56

Need steady supply of Tylenol#3, for cancer. Anyone can help? LB rsvp to lb@li.com, Can't afford Dr. Is incurable.

Laura B <LB@li.com> from usr4-167-145.dialup.discovernet.net on Tuesday, December 29, 1998 at 13:48:05

My dermatologist recently rx'd tetracyclene for a reoccuring facial rash. My father has told me that tetracyclene has numerous side effects. I can't find anything. Is there research which indicates problems involved in taking tetracyclene?

Edward A. Averyt <CFJKJ@Allstate.com/> from gw4.allstate.com on Tuesday, December 29, 1998 at 03:02:53

I had a zit on my lower, mid back a few years ago and squeezed it so hard, that after the infection went away, the bump did not. Now I have a large, unattractive bump on my back where that zit used to be. What can be done? Is it turning into cancer? Can it be removed without a scar? Thank you.

Eric T. <eric@noend.com> from 209-25-48.ipt.aol.com on Monday, December 28, 1998 at 07:02:34

my daughter has a rash on her hands that started about 6 months ago, it started out as water filled blisters and is now dry itchy patches. i can't get it cleared up. can you tell me something that might clear it up? Bonnie

Bonnie <boating@wworld.com> from carmi42.wworld.com on Thursday, December 17, 1998 at 10:24:08

I have a drug in two days. I just smoked weed two days ago. How and what can I take to pass my test. I will pay for anything it doesn't matter, my job is on the line! I know you are saying to yourself well why in the hell did you do this in the first place."dum" Please Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Roger <dave2@accesscom.net> from p208.accesscom.net on Thursday, December 03, 1998 at 11:58:29

Two members of my family have severe allergies. A few months ago I came across a network TV show where a new allergy treatment was being chronicled. The focus was a new drug treatment that truly stopped allergic reactions. The drug was still under evaluation but it was at the stage of doing human trials -- with amazing results. Do you know anything about this drug and/or where I can find this information. Thank you.

Bruce Lahey <bruce@titanmedia.com> from titan131.titanmedia.com on Friday, November 20, 1998 at 10:19:22

information on hennoch

from gb-dial18.seidata.com on Saturday, November 14, 1998 at 09:28:43

Is Retin-A safe to use during the last trimester of pregnancy? How about while breastfeeding? I'd been on it from age 27 to 33 for fine lines, and it's amazing. I still looked 27. I've been off it since I've been pregnant, five months, and the fine lines are coming back fast and furious. Especially around eyes and the smile/marionette lines. I really miss using it and am wondering if my skin will get back to its lineless appearance if I'm off it for 12 - 18 months, maybe even 24 months. Can you answer these questions?

Linda <wrtestuf@bellatlantic.net> from client-110-169.bellatlantic.net on Saturday, November 07, 1998 at 22:27:58

Is there any safe alternative to accutane (herbal or not) which will reduce the amount of sebum production (at the source) which we can look forward to in the near future. My teenage daughter needs it! She cannot take accutane due to the liver side effect potential. She already takes Depakote for seizure disorder.

k. austin <jimfaustin@aol.com> from spider-tp041.proxy.aol.com on Sunday, October 11, 1998 at 07:03:16

ME AND MY WIFE HAVE SPENT A BUDDLE OF MONEY ON INFERTILITY DRUGS TRYING TO HAVE A BABY, I'M TOLD THE DRUGS ARE CHEAPER IN THAILAND. I REALIZE THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH ACNE, I'M LOOKING FOR E-MAIL ADDRESS'S FOR PHARMACIES IN THAILAND. PLEASE HELP. THANKS LARRY

LARRY <SUPERLS@MAILEXCITE.COM> from cpu209-41-110-153.unicomp.net on Wednesday, October 07, 1998 at 13:24:55

I have an alapesia on my head which is causing hair loss. My skin specialist has prescribed me Roaccutane. I take two pills per day, one is the morning, and one at night. (20mg). I have been on this medication for 3 months and my bald spot is still increasing. All the information I have found out about Roaccutane, points to it as a treatment for acne. Could you tell me why he would prescribe this drug for my particular case. Signed: A very worried Jayne.

Jayne <dragonx@datamail.co.nz> from p56-max25.akl.ihug.co.nz on Tuesday, September 29, 1998 at 16:24:09

I HAVE BEEN HAVING THESE SORES ON THE BACK OF MY LEGS & BUTT FOR SERVERAL MONTHS. I HAVE SEEN DERMATOLIGIST & MY REGULAR DOCTOR ABOUT THIS THEY BOTH SAY THAT'S IT'S INFECTED HAIRS. THE PROBLEM I HAVE WITH THIS IS IT'S NOT GOING A WAY WITH TREMENT & IS SPREADING. DO YOU KNOW WHAT THIS COULD BE? COULD THESE SORES BE ALLERGIC REACTION OF SOME KIND. THESE SORE ARE RED, SWOLLEN, TENDERS & THERE IS NOTHING DRAINING OR WEEPING FROM THE SORES. IF WOULD PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK THEY COULD BE WHAT I CAN DO TO CURE THEM. I APPRECIATE ANY ADVISE YOU CAN OFFER. THANKS, MISSY

MISSY <a4141@iamercia.net> from iax-waco-1-ppp037.iamerica.net on Tuesday, September 29, 1998 at 11:33:54

Dear Doctor: I'm hoping to travel to Thailand to teach English. My problem is that I take medication to control high blood pressure and to lower my cholesterol. The specific drugs I take are: Nadolol, Triamterene, and Lipitor. I have been given a clean bill of health from my doctors to go if the medications are available. If not available, can you offer suggestions. I've been told that having meds shipped from the US would require an import license.

mark <marcare@netscape.net> from central.mpl.org on Saturday, September 12, 1998 at 00:20:40

is rohypnol legal in thailand can it be bought over the counter iam duing resarch and how much dose it cost this information will be must use ful

brian <bgharr67@gte.net> from 1cust177.tnt2.waipahu.hi.gt.uu.net on Tuesday, September 08, 1998 at 07:15:45

Myself and My Thai wife are soon moving back to live in Thailand. I will need to get health insurance . could you please what is the #1 health insurance company in Thailand ?

James C. Godber <jcgodber@pacificnet.net> from pm3a-43.pacificnet.net on Sunday, August 02, 1998 at 11:18:32

Test posting board.

test <test@test.com> from truppp506.inet.co.th on Tuesday, June 23, 1998 at 13:44:57

dr chan, i am an eighteen year old who has the occasional spot or blemish and decided that i wanted "flawless skin". Therefore I am now taking the oral contraceptive diane 35-ed and have been doing so for five months. However; i am seeing no improvement and if anything my skin is in worse condition than ever. I am wondering how long you think it should take to see results using such medication, and i am also thinking that the fact that I am in a new country for the year travelling , it may be affecting my skin. I am losing hope that's all and considering going off this medication for the only effects i have seen have been a bit of weight gain. Can you tell me if i went off this medication, would my body shed the extra weight it gained? I also fear that my body may get confused and my skin become worse if i go off the medication. I would really like to hear what you have to say on these subjects and hope you will contact me. from kate

kate <kmichalak@hotmail.com> from 207.94.170.67 on Friday, May 29, 1998 at 08:08:44

Dr. Chan, My daughter is getting ready to enter med school, and she plans to do her pre-med research on traumatic burn treatments. She wants to work on a dressing to be placed on the burn concisting of natural ingrediants ( basically dehydrated alloe gel and after reading your paper I think maybe garlic ) Her sponsoring physician is excited over the prospects. Any advice or info. you could give would be appreciated. Thank You

Bill Howard <choward@softdisk.com> from tty031.softdisk.com on Wednesday, May 27, 1998 at 09:25:24

Hello Doctor: I will be travelling to Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak, and Thailand from middle July until middle August. There seems to be a lot of controversy about which malaria drug to take. Both Mefloquine and Doxycycline seem to have some very bad side effects. Except for a trips upriver to the longhouses on Sarawak, we will probably go to the normal places most tourist go, which I understand have little risk of malaria. What do you advise. Also, how much risk are we at for contracting Dengue fever? Thanks for your help. Sincerely, Bruce

Bruce <bbaron@sprynet.com> from gateway.iusd.k12.ca.us on Tuesday, May 26, 1998 at 11:08:04

Hi Doc, I have been having an acne problem for a couple of years. My dermatoligist has tried many different antibiotics as well as creams, Retin A micro etc. I would say that my complexion is not that bad but very persistent and discouraging. I am a 24 yr old male and have had no pimples growing up as a teenager. My acne seemed to begin at about age 20 mildly and then began to hinder me. My doctor said that the next step is Accutaine although he feels that it is "overkill", although he feels that it will put my acne to rest. As of now I am using Benzamycin during the day and Retina A micro at night. In 4 weeks my doctor wants to check up on the situation. So far I have not noticed any change, in fact it seems like there are more outbreaks on my forehead which is where the problem is. His next plan is Accutaine, but I have heard many side effects such as hair loss. If I do lose my hair does it grow back or is this perminent? What are the other side effects that I should know about, I am really concerned. Please help me out. Thank you Sincerely, Al

Al <Altima190@aol> from ww-tk02.proxy.aol.com on Thursday, May 21, 1998 at 22:59:11

dear dr.chan, i am doing a project on disease and healing in thailand from a buddhist perspective. could you tell me a little bit about how disease is perceived in thailand (especially AIDS)? what approaches to healing are prevalent? how does buddhism influence notions of disease and healing? what are some practical remedies that are popular among the people of thailand particularly those who are buddhist? thank you very much. meghan

meghan <abfabs@aol.com> from 193.newark-05.nj.dial-access.att.net on Sunday, February 22, 1998 at 00:41:25

Dear Meghan

Knowledgeable Buddhists all over the world accept modern medicine as it is. As long as medical practice does not contravene important Buddhist precepts (and they hardly ever do), the Buddhist way is very often simply the universally accepted way. There isn't a unique Buddhist way of dealing with disease.
However, Buddhism is followed by many Asian cultures and each does have its own traditional medical practices. Like in other parts of the world that practise traditional medicine, traditional healers in Thailand use herbs and techniques like massage to purge toxins or keep the circulation going. There is, of course, another form of treatment called faith "healing". The processes involved are far more complex (and far less scientific) than traditional herbal medicine, but many rural Thais still rely on this form of treatment whenever they are diagnosed to be suffering from an incurable ailment. This form of "healing" ascribes the cause of disease to spirits which need to be appeased. The "treatment" required often involves sacrifices, offerings and other colourful rituals. Such practices are common even among modern and well-educated Thais. Just as traditional medicine should not be confused with "Buddhist medicine", such animistic practices are just the result of ancient superstition which has been allowed to blend imperceptibly with Buddhist philosophy in Thailand's case.

The issue of AIDS is perceived differently by different levels of Thai society. There has been aggressive campaigning and the spread of the deadly disease has to a small extent, been controlled, but most of the time, it is not discussed at all. Victims are often abandoned by their families and santuaries inside temples are often overcrowded with people suffering from full-blown AIDS. The Thai media gives the plight of these people some coverage, but most Thais refrain from discussing the issue simply because it it unpleasant. Rumours had it that some herbal mixture can cure AIDS or cancer. Some monks are also said to know meditational techniques which can alleviate the victim's suffering.

As an assignment for my freshman accelerated English class, I have to come up with a list of ten or more words that only doctors and others in their field use. This medical jargon project, which is due tomorrow (Tuesday) has to have a professional resource, so I'm looking at you for help. If there is any way you could give me a short list of some terms today, I would greatly appreciate it. Just think of it as a small way of helping America's youth. Thanks again.

Jessica Pasley <slachm@yahoo.com> from win2.kih.net on Tuesday, January 20, 1998 at 16:39:39

I'll give you a variety of jargons and I hope at least some of them will turn out useful. For example, when a surgeon does a "cut down", he is actually surgically exposing a major vein, opening it up to insert an infusion tube. In "open drain", he cuts into the swelling and leaves the cut open so that fluids can flow out. I&D stands for incision and drainage. E&D is examination and dignosis A&E is the accident and emergency in the hospital. ICU is intensive care unit. PR is not public relations but rectal examination. STO means the removal of stitches after surgery. NSAID stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

When a doctor says that your illness is "iatrogenic", he means that he or another doctor caused it. When he says your illness is "idiopathic" (you should know where and how the word came about), he means to say that he doesn't know what on earth caused it.

A carbuncle is not a piece of precious stone but an infection which has grown to resemble that. A port wine stain is not found on clothes and table cloth but on skin where there is an abnormal perfusion of blood vessels. See what unromantic people doctors are?

Dear Doc, I'd like to know more about the 3 fases of test for vacines. I happened to be teaching one day and a student of mine asked me about that. Thanks for your help, Prof. A. Caciatori

A. Caciatori <angeloc@plugue.com.br> from 200.255.50.135 on Thursday, January 15, 1998 at 08:30:48

Dear Dr Chan, Igot this from the net and wonder if it contains any truth in the area of getting rid of acne. Get a damp/wet rag , a bottle of face soap, and a normal bar of soap -- just to make sure you get all the dirt off. 2.You get the damp/wet rag and rub it on your face so that your face has water on it. (be sure to clip up your hair) Now squirt some of the face soap on your rag. 3.Rub the soap that is on your rag all over your face, especially in the pimple areas. Now let it sit there on your face for about 2-4 min. 4.Rinse the soap off the rag and clean rag, take off the soap. Now do the same thing with the bar of soap if you want. This should work, keep on doing it for about a week and you will see a change. It always works for me and now I have a pretty clean-of-pimples face!!! Thanks

from foxglove.singnet.com.sg on Saturday, January 03, 1998 at 01:30:14

Dear Foxglove (pretty face),

Thanks for sharing your secret with us. I have no doubt it works for you, but I'm not so sure if it'll work for those who have a major problem with acne. Your pimples are probably caused by not washing your face often enough. There are other causes like hormonal imbalance, sensitive skin and so on. Different people require different treatment. Some people soothe their nerves with Bach and Chopin. Michael Jackson works for others. Anyway, I think there is no harm for everyone to try your method, just as there is no harm trying a little Bach even if you're a Michael Jackson fan.

Dear Dr. Chan, I was recently diagnosed with a case of gout in my right foot. I have been on medication (Indomethacin) for the past two weeks and have also been drinking cherry juice. I have also avoided eating red meat and consuming alcohol but my case of gout does not seem to be healing. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you.

Larry Wong <lwong@connect.ab.ca> from 207.34.96.91 on Wednesday, December 31, 1997 at 02:00:38

Dear Larry

Indomethacin kills the pain and reduces inflammation, but does little for the high levels of uric acid in your blood which causes the gout in the first place. There are other drugs which lower the uric acid levels in your blood, preventing attacks of gout. Your doctor may have thought that your case doesn't merit the use of such strong drugs, because they do have nasty side effects. On your own, go get yourself a nutritional guide and avoid foods high in purine. Also avoid alcohol. Remember that gout also hits people going on a crash diet, so if you need to diet, diet gradually. If the gout persists you may have to see your doctor again.

Dr Chan, Do you know of or have you heard of a possible side effect of Roaccutane. I took a course of Roaccutane for about 6 months and experienced a sedative effect. Is it possible that the drug can cause this? My experience certainly led me to think so.

Peter Georgiev <peter.georgiev@dse.vic.gov.au> from 60-120.dse.vic.gov.au on Tuesday, December 09, 1997 at 10:04:58

Dear Peter,

I never knew there is so much interest and demand for this drug. I think I should seriously consider changing line and become a Roaccutane salesman. Anyway, the drug is not supposed to have any sedative effects. How bad is it? Are you falling asleep in class? Well, the drug could be indirectly responsible for sedating you by improving your social life, but do check it out with your dermatologist. It is probably something else.

I've been taking accutane for about three months now and have noticed a drastic thinning of hair. How likely is it that this problem will diminish when I lower my medication, and when I'm finished with my therapy altogether?

Angela <dormangel@aol.com> from hei305.bradley.edu on Monday, December 01, 1997 at 13:14:19

Dear Angela,

Prolonged or permanent hair loss are not common side effects of tretinoin. In fact, in many cases, the drug is used to treat thinning hair. What you are experiencing could be an initial reaction to the drug. Even when the drug is used for for treating thinning hair, dermatologists often warn their patients that they could experience some increased hair loss for the first 2 weeks after beginning the tretinoin regime. Hair regrowth takes several months before it is noticeable. If you do not notice your hair regrowing even after 4 months, consult your dermatologist to determine the exact cause of the thinning. It may not have anything to do with tretinoin.

Dear sir, I've used Roaccutane between April and 4th of September. Now I've recently learn that I 'm pregnant for 7 weeks.This shows that begining date of pregnancy should be aproximatelly 7th of October.Although it was described in prospectus of drug that it is safe to be pregnant after one mounth from stopping therapy , I've questions in my mind abouth baby.What is the risk of having a deformed baby ? How long time do you advise for pregnancy after roaccutane ? Is one month SAFE ENOUGH ? Thank you .

Sinem <kulker@sim.net.tr> from bedevi.verisat.net on Monday, November 24, 1997 at 07:26:28

Dear Sinem,

Few doctors would dare stick their necks out to assure you that your baby will be okay, but one month off the drug is pretty safe for most women.

After being on mynocycline for some time my dermatologist feels it necessary to move on to accutaine. He said the only side affects are dry skin and possible birth defects if I conceive. I am not looking to conceive right now. I did hear though, there is a possibility of sterility in women. Is this true?

Melanie <Melanie@rcsnet.com> from rcs-computer.com on Sunday, November 23, 1997 at 23:13:13

Dear Melanie,

There are numerous tragic possibilities in life regardless of whether you are on any drug. There are high possibilities and also remote possibilities. What your doctor said is right. You only need to worry if you get pregnant during the course of treatment. It is most unlikely that you'll become sterile as a result of tretinoin therapy.

Is Roaccutane that powerful in treating acne? How permanent are the effects after treatment ie.no acne for how many months? Does the sebum production greatly drop during and after treatment so that you need not wash your face so frequently? Thanks.

Tan Y L <godspeed@mbox2.singnet.com.sg> from lily.singnet.com.sg on Wednesday, November 19, 1997 at 23:01:03

Dear Lily,

The exact mechanism by which Roaccutane works is still not known. Some people experience deterioration when the drug is first used. However, for most cases, the drug begins to behave like a powerful inhibitor of sebaceous gland activity after about 2 weeks on the course. Yes, your skin will feel drier. Dermatologists prescribe the drug for mild to moderate acne. Not everyone responds to the drug in the same way. Your condition must be monitored by your dermatologist through several courses. Each course may last from 2 to 8 weeks. There are usually intervals of 2 months between the courses. Some people recover even after the drug is withdrawn, but some people need to keep taking it.

Dear Dr Chan, I am on Roaccutane for almost 4 months now and recently i have decided to take a holiday to Indonesia and Malaysia. I will be going into the forest (hiking/snorkelling/swimming) which i need the to take the Malaria tablets with me. I went to see my local doctor and she gave me 2 types of Malaria tablets which she looked up from her books. I wonder if it is save to take them with my Roaccutane? The two types she gave me are Chlooquine and Preguaril (I hope i don't have any spelling mistake because her hand writing is difficult to read.) Or if you know any malaria tablets which will not have any interaction with Roaccutane? Your earliest reply will be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Regards, Yen Nie Chong

Yen Nie Chong <chongy@cs.curtin.edu.au> from euler.cs.curtin.edu.au on Friday, November 14, 1997 at 12:06:36

Dear Nie Chong,

The drugs you've been prescribed are Chloroquine and Proguanil. They happen to be amongst the safest drugs for use in malarial prophylaxsis. Though Chloroquine is not as effective as it used to be, the new drug, Proguanil takes care of the resistant plasmodium. However, the drugs should always be taken in combination. Never take Proguanil alone. Both drugs have very mild side effects and you don't have to worry too much about interactions with Roaccutane. Just be generous with the sunblock and you'll be all right. Guard yourself against pickpockets, horrendous traffic, unhygienic practices and open sewers in Indonesia. These are far more hazardous to your health than side effects from anti-malarial and anti-acne drugs. Have fun. Selamat jalan.

Please tell me the sign effect in detail of the medecine "accutaine"

Danik <dan30@hotmail.com> from iserver.inac.gc.ca on Friday, November 14, 1997 at 09:51:10

Dear Danik,

Tretinoin (Roaccutane, Accutane etc ...) is a type of vitamin A. Excess Vitamin A during pregnancy is known to cause birth defects in some cases. So the drug is unsafe for pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. The drug also causes increased light sensitivity. Thus, a sunblock is essential for anyone using tretinoin. Weather extremes of wind and cold may also cause irritation on the treated skin. Avoid direct contact with the eyes, mouth and nose. The medication may cause inflammation to skin affected by eczema. Broken areas of skin should not be treated with the drug. If tretinoin comes in contact with the eye, flush with water.

Could you tell me how long do I have to be off Roaccutane before I could go under a sunbed. As I want to do a sun tan course, thanks Regards

Marie <aroui@xtra.co.nz> from proxy.xtra.co.nz on Thursday, November 13, 1997 at 17:24:11

Dear Marie,

It's good that you know about the drug you're using. Yes, tretinoin increases skin sensitivity to sunlight and you really should avoid exposure while under the regime. It takes about 2 weeks for Roaccutane to take full effect after you've started using it. It also takes about 2 weeks for enough of it to get flushed out of your system so that you won't get any severe burns while trying to get a tan.

Hello, I am a 32 year old American living in Japan. Recently I have contracted Chlamydia in Malaysia. The treatment prescribed by physician in Japan was one of "Clarith200" (Clarithromycin) which proved to be ineffective after two weeks of taking it. Next he gave me an Anti-bacterial called "Cravit100". I had an allergic reaction to this that was not good at all, so had to stop after only one dose. I had a sever allergy to tetracyclene as a child, but now doctor has given me a small dose to try out and see if I have a reaction (I'm not so sure I want to do this !! ). Information Ive gotten from the Internet is that a one gram dose of "Azithromycin" is a cure for Chlamydia. The physician does not know of this drug in Japan, and said it is probably unavailable. Do you know what I I should do, or whom shall I contact ? Perhaps the fact that these types of disease are rare in Japan make them hard to treat with the proper medication ? Thank you for your consideration.

Just Me <neko1@hotmail.com> from tc-1-086.sendai.gol.ne.jp on Saturday, October 25, 1997 at 16:09:14

Dear Neko,

Chlamydia is indeed a tropical disease rare in Japan. It can affect our lungs when we inhale the organism which is found in abundance in bird droppings. It can affect our eyes when the organism is carried by dust and lands there. It can also affect our reproductive organs after sex with an infected partner. In all cases, tetracycline is the most effective drug. It is unfortunate that you are allergic to it. The other alternative is erythromycin. I believe the drug you mentioned is a patented form of the drug which may not be available in Japan. However, the generic or pure form of the drug must be available. Your doctor will know what you're talking about if you quote erythromycin.

Dear Dr Chan, My 17 year old son has adolescent acne and has been prescribed minocycline. I have read that there are side effects including dizziness, SLE like reactions hepatopathies, discoloration of the skin and photosensitivity. There is no indication as to whether these conditions are temporary or permanent, or whether they resolve after stopping the medication. What we are also not told is what is the incidence of these side effects. If the chance of getting a SLE like syndrome was 1 in 10,000 we would risk the drug for the apparent benefit, if the risk was 1 in 50 that would be a different matter. If the SLE was permanent that may also influence our decision. I thank you in anticipation of your help. Sincerely, John Glad

John <john@johnglad.demon.co.uk> from johnglad.demon.co.uk on Thursday, October 23, 1997 at 18:43:19

Dear John

Yes, all those side effects you've mentioned are possible. However, nearly all of them, including the SLE-like symptoms and hepatopathies, disappear upon withdrawal of the drug.

However, there is a paper published by Gough et al (British Medical Journal 1996) in which 26 teeangers and young adults who experienced severe adverse reactions to minocycline were investigated. 2 of them died while one needed a liver transplant. All the rest recovered when the drug was withdrawn. On the other hand, a 1993 research found that about 800,000 prescriptions for minocycline were handed out in the UK. This shows that the drug is quite safe.

hi mr. chan it's me tik again .. who was once asked you about roaccutane. and this time i would like to make sure i understood every thing prfectly before going into one of the course. After all the years people would like to get marry and have family , now if i have taken this medicine though it will be flushed out of my body but would there be any late affect at all to my kids. now my doctor suggested me to take a 5 month course so i'd like to know if there would be any chance that my vital parts of my body will be damaged severly. and could have those possible damages do me harm perminently eg. hardening of blood vessel, poor vision and esp liver damage which could result in diabetic symtom ?. however my doctor didn't seem to place much concern on these affects apart from receiving dry skin. If i am not wrong he suggested 3 pills a day.. do you think that is a lot ... if my acne isn't that severe then would the amount of pills be halved ie; three halved pills daily.. YOu see i am very concern with its side effect very much so could you please make me clear plaese.... and will it be cured forever? thank you sir.

tik <pit@minyos.its.rmit.edu.au> from gallifrey.its.rmit.edu.au on Friday, October 03, 1997 at 17:31:00

Dear Khun Tik,

Roaccutane is basically a very safe drug when used under your dermatologist's supervision. Side effects can be divided into the common side effects like peeling skin, sensitivity to sunlight as well as the uncommon ones like some of the nasty ones you mentioned above. The really nasty side effects need to be mentioned so that the manufacturers are legally protected just in case something happens. Most people do not need to worry about the uncommon side effects. At any rate, you should be safe if you see your dermatologist regularly and report any discomfort immediately.

Permanent damage to "vital" organs should not worry you. You can have normal kids after the course of treatment. It only takes a couple of weeks for the drug to reach negligible concentrations once you stop taking it.

Dr. Chan I would like your advise concerning my phychological problem. I am a college student who think negatively toward other people, well only the one I don't trust. The problem happen with another Thai student who have not done anything to me, but I dislike him and donot trust him from the beganning(but only him not other student, I guess it my instinct telling me). I hardly talk to him and he could obviously sense this. But then he alway come over and touch me on my back. I dislike his action greatly. But I did not dare to say anything, so this anger stay with me for couple of month, and make me very unhappy. Even those i am 24 years old i still have not grown up to defend myself from what I don't like. Why can't I aceept his action as a gesture, and forget about it? It is possible for him to harm me (physically) by squeezing my back in anyway posible? And how can be man enough to stand up tell him to stop? Or should i accepted, that a man living in this chaotic world of our, it is natural that i encounter thee problem and that i just have to learn h to accept it? Please give your advise, as if you are in my shoe. A confuse man

Supachai <s972060@ipc.ac.nz> from cl1-08.ipc.ac.nz on Tuesday, August 12, 1997 at 14:20:49

Dear Nong Supachai,

Your problem doesn't seem to be a serious one at all. In all walks of life, we will come across people who simply don't like our faces. That's quite human and we being equally human, may encounter people whose faces we don't like either. You mentioned that you only feel this way towards Khun Back-toucher and not others. It's not a psychological problem. Maybe the two of you were enemies in your previous lives.

But seriously, it is not easy to hate someone and you may be able to find a "hate phon" as to why you hate Khun Back-toucher. Just as if you're crazy about Dolly Parton for "no reason", there could be some reason whihc you're unwilling to "get off your chest".

If I were you, I'll jump up everytime Khun Back-toucher strikes. When he asks me, I'll tell him that I got sunburnt over the weekend at Hua Hin. Next week, it will be Rayong, then Phuket, Koh Samui .... until he gets the message.

Thank you for your answer,But I am in Las Vegas and these Accutane treatment you have to take birth control pill before go on the treatment..My insurance will be take care of the cost , But the birth control pill is not what i want ...

Molly <malewan@msn.com> from 1cust31.max26.los-angeles.ca.ms.uu.net on Thursday, August 07, 1997 at 05:41:00

Dear Molly,

As I have mentioned to another reader, there is a very real danger of having deformed babies while a woman is on isotretinoin. That's why you're given birth control pills. Rightly or wrongly, we tend to assume that "not married" means "not pregnant". Though the moral implications of thinking otherwise can be embarrassing, it is only wise for the doctor who is unlikely to know anything about your private life, not to make such risky assumptions.

You shouldn't be too perturbed about b