Rash effected by stressful incident

Dear Dr. Gott: Is there normal life after catching photo sensitivity? I had been on the road for at least nine hours – all nighttime driving – when a wrong turn put me on a super stretch of highway having no turns. I must have traveled at least 400 miles out of the way. The speed limit was 70, but traffic moved way over 90 mph. This traffic required me to strain my eyes looking for a turn. I was forced to endure the headlights of the approaching traffic.

When I finally did reach my residence, it was still dark, the time being after midnight.

The next morning, I noticed that the right-side of my face was swollen around the eye.

My doctor said I had contacted photo-sensitivity, prescribed methylprednisolone (4 mg) and said there would be no need to return.

Yet, while all the swelling has subsided, a skin rash has developed all around the lower neck area, the right side being more intense.

The itching is so pronounced that, at times, I have a desire to end it all. Day and night the intense itching continues. Only when I finally fall asleep do I get any relief.

Is there any cream-type medication that may provide some relief?

Dear Reader: I suspect that your continuing symptom of rash is probably the consequence of stress, from the extraordinary experience that you had on the highway. I share your reaction to the 80 mph eighteen-wheelers and SUVs that clog our roads and exceed reasonable speed limits on a regular basis.

I can cruise at 75 on expressways (an event that is excessive) while being passed by other vehicles that blow by me at rates I cannot define. This isn’t what really bothers me, though. It’s the fact that these speeding vehicles often tailgate slow drivers. I do not believe that tailgating is appropriate, regardless of cruising speeds.

Consequently, while I accept your physician’s conclusion that your initial reaction may have been photosensitivity, I do not agree that your rash has the same cause.

I suggest that you monitor the situation for two or three weeks, stay off the interstate and get back to me as needed. And, by all means, thank you for giving me an excuse to blow off steam about the nationwide, dangerous driving practices that really should be addressed by the proper authorities.

Dear Dr. Gott: I am writing you concerning your opinion of the Herbal Healer Academy Herb Tea Bulk. It contains burdock, sheep sorrel, turkey rhubarb and slippery elm herbs.

Is it any benefit in the prevention of cancer?

Dear Reader: None whatsoever. Save your money.