DEAR DR. GOTT: A gentleman working with me had eczema so bad it hurt just to look at it. He's a veteran and was being treated at the local VA hospital. I suggested he try taking a tablespoon of cod-liver oil every day, since it's a great source of vitamins A and D. He tried it, and his eczema cleared up. He told me that he had never thought of treating it internally.

I was so happy I was able to help him and hope that you print my letter so that it may help others.

DEAR READER: Cod-liver oil has a starring role in the nightmares of most adults over the age of 50. In earlier years, it was common for parents to force their children to take it daily for good health. Back then, it was thought to be healthful; today, it is known to be healthful.

Cod-liver oil is a good source of omega-3 and vitamins A and D. It has been used to treat various forms of rheumatism and rickets for many years, but recent studies suggest it may be beneficial for other ailments, as well. These may include cardiac conditions, inflammatory disorders and, as you pointed out, certain skin problems, such as eczema.

Because research is still ongoing, no definitive results are available. However, there is little harm in considering the product. Anyone interested should first discuss the issue with his or her physician, because there is always a possibility of adverse reaction or allergy. Furthermore, there is a risk of interaction when taken in conjunction with other over-the-counter and/or prescription medications.

I have printed your letter for the benefit of my readers and ask that anyone with experience with this potential treatment option, write me with the results. I will then print a follow-up article.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Dermatitis, Eczema and Psoriasis." Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a check or money order for $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

DEAR DR. GOTT: In 2003, my body ached all over. My physician examined me, closely monitoring the new high-blood-pressure meds she had prescribed. No cause was found, so I was diagnosed with arthritis and was sent to physical therapy. It didn't help, and I begged for a wheelchair.

One day, I accompanied a friend to her holistic doctor. He saw me limping around his health-food store and invited me to talk about my pain. He suggested that I get a comprehensive blood allergy test, which my doctor had not ordered.

My body was reacting against my favourite foods: eggs, milk, soy and gluten flours, and, to a lesser degree, to most of the other foods on the allergy list. I changed my diet and noticed that my joints and muscles stopped hurting. Today. I live pain-free with a gluten-free diet and my two blood-pressure medications.

DEAR READER: Food allergies and gluten sensitivity are often overlooked as causes of physical illness, including pain. Reactions such as yours may be severe enough to be nearly debilitating yet vague enough to be contributed to other, more common causes. Most allergies manifest in more recognizable ways, such as a rash, hives, swelling immediately following exposure, itching, sneezing, runny nose or watery eyes. Food allergies are more likely to be associated with swelling of the lips, tongue and throat and hives, rather than a runny nose or watery eyes.

Thanks for writing to remind me that allergies may be a cause of body pain.