Ask Dr Chris: Hot flushes and eczema

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Every week we partner up with our sister magazine, Woman, to bring you expert health advice from This Morning's Dr Chris Steele MBE, health journalist of the year. This week he answers your questions about scarring and hayfever.

The problem: 'I'm faint and flushed'

I'm 36 and suffering hot flushes from top to toe every month, lasting about two days. This leaves me so faint I have to go to bed and I look bright red. What should I do?

The solution

You might be experiencing an early menopause. If this is the case, HRT (hormone replacement therapy) will ease your symptoms. You could be suffering from one of several disorders where certain hormones reach abnormal levels, so see your GP and he can investigate.

The problem: 'What else will help his eczema?'

My nine-month-old baby has eczema on his face. Our GP prescribed a low-dose steroid cream, which works. I don't want to use it every day, but as soon as I stop the eczema returns. What can you suggest?

The solution

Steroid creams are effective but they should be used sparingly and not for longer than seven days. Once you've cleared up the eczema, apply a good emollient (moisturiser) every couple of hours. Try Dermasalve - the only cream that contains no sensitisers or irritants.