Does warm water kill germs?
Q: With flu season and the MRSA staph infection upon us, we are urged to wash our hands frequently, usually “with warm, soapy water.” My memories of Bacteriology 101 some 50 years ago aren’t crystal clear, but I can’t recall “warm” water kills anything. Soapsuds, on the other hand, do carry nasty things away. Is there any science behind the “warm-water” suggestion?
A: Warm water is no more effective than cold for removing germs. Soap and water don’t kill germs, but only wash them off the surface of the skin.
Q: I have had a problem with underarm odor for the past several months. It occurs even when I am not active. I use an antibacterial soap and have increased the strength of my antiperspirants.
The problem is still there. One arm is worse than the other. My doctor has no answers. Please give me a natural solution to this and explain why it is occurring.
A: We’re afraid we can’t tell you why, but we may have a possible solution. Milk of magnesia is sold as a laxative, but readers of this column have suggested applying it to armpits as a gentle deodorant. We have tried it ourselves and found that it reduces odor surprisingly well.
Q: Be careful taking over-the-counter potassium. It can build up in your body and eventually stop your heart. Consult your doctor about the proper dosage before starting. I nearly killed myself taking potassium on my own a few years ago.
A: Potassium is one of those “Goldilocks” minerals - both too little and too much can be deadly. A physician should use a blood test to monitor anyone who takes a potassium supplement.
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them c/o King Features Syndicate, 888 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019, or via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org