THE DOC REPLIES
I’VE been on 20mg of Citalopram for three weeks. I’ve been experiencing a dry mouth. Is this normal and is there a way to stop it?
Most people taking Citalopram experience no side effects and find the treatment of great benefit. A little bit of a dry mouth at the beginning of treatment is quite common and usually resolves itself.
I often experience anxiety in the morning when my husband leaves for work. It can often result in me feeling very upset. I feel it has become a habit. What can I do to stop it?
A psychologist or counsellor might be able to uncover some deep-seated anxiety surrounding fear of separation. However, there are some practical steps that you could consider, like having a set routine where you go out and do something around the same time. Some form of physical activity would be useful.
I only smoke when I’m drinking but a friend says this is just as dangerous as smoking all the time. Is this true?
Smoking causes cancer, heart disease and a whole host of other medical problems. It is harmful to you and those around you, so please try to stop. WHEN’S the best time to have a flu jab? I’m 73.
It is best to have a flu jab in the early autumn before the seasons strains of virus come our way. This is why GPs organise their flu campaigns in October when the vaccine is available in sufficient stock.
I’VE been taking codeine to alleviate my pain from irritable bowel syndrome. However, there is a side effect – a pain at the back of my eyes. Is it safe to continue?
People with IBS are best to avoid codeine as it can increase the spasm from the bowel and cause constipation.
I’VE been told I have a “floater” in my eye. What is it, and is it dangerous?
The dark pigment at the back of the eye sometimes flakes off and floats down through the jelly of the eye. If a GP or optician has checked it out then it is safe to say there is no threat to vision. However, any loss of vision could indicate retinal detachment and needs seen urgently.
I have a new hip. As I have recently ordered new copper insoles for my shoes, I wonder if they are safe to use with my dodgy hips?
Hopefully your new hip is no longer “dodgy”. It is sensible to gradually increase walking distances and it’s perfectly fine to use supportive insoles to improve comfort.
MY grandson is quite idle for a nine-year-old and doesn’t like getting out or playing sports. How do I convince him to do some exercise?
If you could answer this question it would solve one of the fundamental ills of modern society. ‘Good cop’ techniques include encouraging nature walks and sporting activity. ‘Bad cop’ techniques mean switching off televisions and screens. Good luck in your endeavours.