THE DOC REPLIES

What is myasthenia gravis and how would I know I have it?

Myasthenia gravis is an auto-immune disorder which affects the way messages are transferred between nerves. Typically, those who have it find their muscles are easily fatigued, and this feeling become worse as the day goes on. Breathing and swallowing may become more difficult, and the eye muscles are also commonly affected. The diagnosis of this condition is confirmed by something called electro-diagnostic testing which measures the presence of serum auto-antibodies in the blood. I take an aspirin a day to thin my blood as I heard years ago it was good for the heart – is this sensible? I’m 67.

Taking aspirin daily without medical advice is not advisable as, for some people, the risk of stomach bleeding outweighs any protection to the heart. People who have had a heart attack or stroke often have to take aspirin a day on medical advice. I read that nicotine is a stimulant – so why does it calm me down?

Nicotine stimulates some parts of the nervous system which in turn allows others to relax. Overall, however, it is a harmful substance and should be avoided – unless in the context of nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation. My grandson is three months but brings up milk with every feed. I’m worried he’s not getting enough food.

It is normal for babies to “posset”, or bring back a bit of food, but this should gradually lessen as they grow older as the stomach capacity increases and the valve between stomach and gullet tightens. It is important to check he is growing normally. Your grandson’s health visitor can check this on a growth chart. My left eyelid has become slightly drooped. It’s quite annoying, not to mention that it doesn’t look great. What could have caused this?

Infections, styes, trapped eyelashes and contact allergies can cause an eyelid to begin drooping. There are also some medical conditions involving the nerve to the eyes which can cause this too. Your family doctor, optician or pharmacist could advise as an initial step. I’ve started to cycle to work every morning. I’m feeling a lot healthier but I pass through lots of traffic – is it worth getting a mask to stop breathing in traffic fumes?

The benefits of fitness through cycling are often partly offset for those in the city by the exposure to traffic fumes, especially diesel from buses or lorries. Masks cut out soot particles, but it’s only the more expensive ones that cut out harmful gases like nitrogen dioxide. Does motor neurone disease run in families?

Motor neurone disease is not known to be passed on by any particular gene. However, research is ongoing as to whether there may be a slightly higher risk within some families. Motor neurone disease sufferers should have access to a neurology support nurse who could advise on whether there may be a genetic link, rather than to the individual. Is it harmful to crack one’s fingers? I do it because it feels quite good – but my wife is irritated by the noise and says it’s bad for me.

I cannot think of any benefit that cracking fingers will have. It is certainly likely to put stress in the finger joints and, if it annoys your wife, perhaps it is time that you stopped? How do you cure a dripping nose? I’m in my 60s and even sinus sprays from the pharmacy won’t help clear my nasal passage.

Persistent dripping requires an examination of the nasal passages to look for any treatable causes particularly if sinus sprays have not helped. Try collecting some of the fluid for your doctor as simple chemical testing of this would be a guide as the cause.