My GP suggests I'm neurotic, but I'm a hitherto well and energetic 62-year-old woman afflicted with a debilitating malaise that has built up over a couple of years. It began with a rash at the back of my throat, making for an uncomfortable mouth and throat, and has since caused exhaustion, weight loss and a cough. I've had blood tests and a thyroid check, and nothing is amiss.

Consult a naturopath to identify what is triggering your malaise and get advice on rebalancing your system. It might be something toxic that you're ingesting or a food sensitivity. It seems to be affecting your respiratory system: have you recently moved house, had new carpets, bedding or paintwork in your bedroom, new perfumes, cosmetics or cleaning materials, or are you exposed to pollutants from farm/garden sprays? Have you got amalgam fillings or had dental work done? Whatever the cause, you'd benefit from drinking lots of filtered water, eating organic wholefoods, and stopping alcohol and caffeine. Gently detoxify with dandelion and milk thistle capsules (from the Paul Hambly dispensary, 01892 783027) and get lots of rest and fresh air. Go to healthy-house.co.uk for allergy-proof products and advice, or contact the General Council and Register of Naturopaths (naturopathy.org.uk, 01458 840072).

Last winter my eyelids split and got a fungal infection that was remedied with Fucidin H. This winter it has started again. Surely these hydrocortisone creams thin the skin?

Steroidal creams thin the skin by breaking the collagen bonds and any eczema or skin splitting will allow airborne fungi to infect the open wound. Apply borage cream to the eyelids - this is soothing and very healing. Essential fatty acids in the diet will nourish the skin from within - either eat oily fish or take Essential Balance daily. Dry eyelids (and skin in general) are associated with low absorption of essential fatty acids. A supplement such as DigestAid from Biocare could be taken before each main meal. Visit a nutritionist if there is no improvement; contact the British Association for Nutritional Therapy (bant.org.uk, 0870 606 1284). Take a zinc supplement daily, as zinc is a great healer of skin tissues. Borage cream, oils and enzymes from the Paul Hambly dispensary (as before).

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Before following Emma's recommendations, you should consult your GP about any medical problems or special health conditions. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.