three day ? Acne is a condition of the skin that occurs most commonly during adolescence. Acne usually appears on the face, but it may also appear on the chest and back. In its mildest form, acne appears as large blackheads and whiteheads (blind blackheads). The formation of pimples occurs in a more severe case. In the worst cases, cysts and scars form. For generations it was mistakenly thought that acne was caused by a lack of cleanliness and a diet of junk foods. Now it is believed that acne is caused by the action of hormones during the adolescent years, pimples are caused by normal skin germs breaking down the oil in the blackheads and forming irritating substances. The pus that results is not a sign of infection. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS The skin breaks out in red bumps, which may or may not be open. Lumps under the skin indicate that the acne has formed cysts. HOME CARE Wash the affected area with mild soap twice a day. After washing, apply acne preparations containing sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid, or mild benzoyl peroxide. Changes in the teenager's diet are unnecessary. Your doctor may suggest the use of a blackhead spoon (available at most pharmacies) for removal of large, unsightly blackheads. Acne in young infants should not be treated with any medication. Simply wash with clear water. Notify your doctor if the condition worsens. PRECAUTIONS • To avoid making a case of acne worse, adolescents should stay away from products that can irritate the skin, such as motor oil, gasoline, and oilcontaining cosmetics. • Do not squeeze or pick pimples-scarring may result. • Acne in young infants should not be treated with any medication. • If acne does not improve, or if cysts develop, see your doctor. • Never allow xray treatment of acne. MEDICAL TREATMENT Acne treatment has vastly improved in the past five years. Doctors now prescribe vitamin A ointment or liquid and prescriptionstrength benzoyl peroxide, which are applied to the skin. There is also a new medication taken by mouth for severe acne that forms cysts. Longterm treatment using tetracycline or other antibiotics taken by mouth is safe and effective. Applying antibiotics on the skin is still experimental, but Promising. Disfiguring scars can be removed by a dermatologist or Plastic surgeon without hospitalization once the acne has been Drought under control. RELATED TOPIC: BOILS Quick Reference Anemia SYMPTOMS • Paleness of nail beds • Paleness inside eyelids • Paleness of membranes inside mouth • Tiredness • Shortness of breath • Rapid pulse • Jaundice HOME CARE • None. See your doctor. PRECAUTIONS • Never attempt to treat anemia without your doctor's advice. • Give your children a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients. • Keep iron supplements out of the reach of children. An overdose of iron can be dangerous. • Detecting anemia early is important See your doctor if you suspect that your child is anemic. Be sure children have regular physical examinations. fever