Breaking into itchy boils all over, in summer

Chennai

I have been having boils for the last few days. They seem to vanish, but reappear all over my face and my scalp. Is this due to the heat? - S Vinitha, Nungambakkam

The most common skin problem in summer apart from prickly heat, is an itchy rash of small and raised red spots that causes a stinging or prickling sensation on the skin. Prickly heat can also progress to become boils that can be painful and these also appear on the scalp, apart  from the face. Boils on the skin can later become a bacterial infection and one must consult a doctor and follow the prescribed medication, like antibiotics.

Dr Subhashini Mohan, Dermatologist, Motherhood

I am 72 years and my Ejection Fraction is 32. What are the implications of this and how frequently should it be monitored? - A Parthasarathy, Mylapore

A poorly pumping heart may bring serious health risks. It can cause electrical problems in the heart, such as dangerously fast or irregular rhythms. These heart rhythm problems may lead to a sudden cardiac arrest or SCA. Medical research have revealed that people with an EF number below 35 per cent face a significant risk of developing dangerously fast heart rhythms and SCA. The problem is SCA often strikes without warning and without symptoms.  One of the best ways to identify your risk of SCA is to have your Ejection Fraction measured by a doctor. Your EF number can change, so it’s equally important for you talk to your doctor about tracking it over time, just as you would for your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Dr AM Karthigesan, Consultant Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist, Apollo Hospital