Ask Dr Chris: High blood pressure, skin rashes
Every week we partner 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 high blood pressure and skin rashes.
The problem: High blood pressure
I've got high blood pressure. How can I bring it down?
The solution
I also have hypertension (high blood pressure) and here's what I do: eat a low salt diet. If you can't give up the taste of salt, use Lo-salt, a low-sodium alternative. Get your weight down to a normal level and buy a DIY BP machine to check it yourself.
The problem: Skin rashes
Any pressure on my skin causes an itchy, lumpy, spotty rash. It spreads quickly and lasts about two hours. I have to wear loose, unflattering clothes - I'm only 21 and feel like such a frump.
The solution
This red rash indicates that you have urticaria (nettle rash or hives) with a tendency to allergic conditions and eczema. Your GP can get you tested for allergies to certain foods and food additives and may prescribe antihistamine tablets.
Read more great health advice from Dr Chris
More on Health
- More facts on more than 300 health conditions
- More expert advice on lots of health problems
- Read real-life stories by women just like you
- Got a story or tip to share? Send it to us at goodtoknow
There's more advice from Dr Chris in this week's bigger, better WOMAN, on sale every Tuesday
By Dr Chris Steele
Average rating:
Where to next?
-
How to deal with hives
-
6 reasons your duvet could be making you ill
-
'8,000 dust mites in my daughter's duvet'
-
Ask Doctor Chris: Nut allergies and sciatica
-
Ask Dr Chris: Dairy allergy, heart palpitations
-
6 ways to beat eczema
-
Consultant dermatologist, Dr Andrew Wright on eczema
-
Fruit and veg can prevent high blood pressure
-
Health commandments: Drink booze and eat chocolate
-
Health commandments: Know your vital stats
-
Test your blood pressure!
