VHI’s Dr Bernadette Carr answers your questions

I am a man in my mid 40s and over the last few months I have had a number of tension-type headaches.

I seem to get the headaches when I am tired or stressed. I don’t want to keep taking painkillers, should I talk to my GP?

Although their cause is unclear, tension-type headaches are the most common form of headache and most people will experience them at some time. The pain from the headache can seem like a tightness round the head, some people do feel pressure in their head unrelated to any physical activities. Most will last a few hours, though they can last much longer, up to seven days.

While the causes of tension-type headaches are unclear, it is believed they can be triggered by the following:

* Tiredness, anxiety or stress.

* Tension in the neck muscles, possible from poor posture when sitting at a desk.

* Cold, heat or loud noise.

* Over usage of pain killers can cause, or at least perpetuate, tension headaches.

As you have had these headaches for a few months, you need to make an appointment to see your GP for a full assessment of these headaches.

In the meantime, here are some general suggestions for you; some lifestyle changes may help to prevent this type of headache:

* Ensure that you are getting enough sleep and that you are eating regularly and staying hydrated.

* Regular exercise can be very helpful.

* Try to manage stress and try practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or muscle relaxation.

* If you work at a desk make sure your posture is good and that your neck muscles are not tense. It might be useful to have an ergonomic assessment of your work station, which can often be organised through your HR Department.

Over the last few weeks, patches of skin on my arms and legs have become very dry and itchy. I haven’t changed any cosmetics or household products recently. I am a woman in my 40s. Have you any suggestions?

Dry itchy skin can be very uncomfortable, particularly if it is accompanied by the urge to scratch. There are a number of causes of itchy skin and these include:

* An allergy.

* An underlying skin condition such as eczema.

* Insect bites.

* An underlying medical condition.

Some people experience itching all over their body and others in one area. It is possible that having skin which is drier than average may be a contributing factor. While for some people the area of dry skin may appear red, cracked or have bumps or blisters, in others there is no change in the outward appearance of the skin.

As you have had this condition for a few weeks, I would advise you to make an appointment with your GP, who can examine the skin on your arms and legs and rule out any underlying medical condition. In the meantime here are some general suggestions to try:

Your pharmacist will be able to advise you.

* Luke warm showers or baths may help to ease the itching.

* Use unscented soap, shower and bath products.

When visiting your GP, it would be helpful if you had a note of your symptoms and how long you have experienced the itching. You should also bring a list of all medications, both prescription and over the counter, that you are taking. I am sure your GP will be able to advise you on the best management and how to ease these symptoms.