THE DOC REPLIES

I’VE been told my dad has something called Buerger’s Disease. What is it?

The condition is most common among male patients who are heavy smokers. It usually begins between the ages of 20 and 35. It is characterised by small blood clots which occur mainly in the hands and feet and can cause pain and coldness. In severe cases it can cause gangrene of the fingers and toes. The main recommendation with regard to treatment is to stop smoking and strong painkillers are occasionally required to control symptoms. In some cases there can be a familial pre-disposition although it is rare among non-smokers.

CAN I drink alcohol with a hiatus hernia?

Hiatus hernia can sometimes cause symptoms of indigestion and heart burn. Alcohol can often aggravate these symptoms and, although it is not absolutely recommended to avoid drink, it would generally be advisable to keep your consumption to a minimum. As always we would recommend sticking within the recommended weekly intake of 14 units alcohol per week.

CAN I remove an ingrown toenail at home? I’ve been troubled by one before but think I can probably make an attempt to deal with it myself.

I wouldn’t advise removing an ingrowing toenail at home. This normally has to be done using sterile tools as there is an increased risk of infection. There can also be some issues with bleeding. I would recommend that you see your GP or a podiatrist.

MY friend gave me a diet plan which included advice that humans must drink eight glasses of water per day. Is this true?

Choosing healthier drinks is a key part of a balanced diet and water is a healthy and cheap choice. According to current advice, we should drink six to eight glasses of fluids per day and water is key in this. It contains no sugars and no calories. Although it is not essential that you drink this amount it is still recommended as part of a healthy diet and fizzy drinks, squashes and juices should be kept to a minimum because of the amount of added sugar.

OFTEN I’m woken up early in the morning – around 5am – with palpitations which can last until the alarm goes off. Is it worth having my heart checked out?

I think it would be worth seeing your GP about this. Palpitations often occur in the evening when someone goes to bed and, if there are no symptoms of chest pain or shortness of breath, they are often not too problematic. However, if you have regular palpitations which wake you up and you are having other symptoms, then get it checked out by your doctor.

I immediately start sweating if I have an alcoholic drink. I’ve drank for years without problem but recently perspiration has become a problem. Any ideas?

Alcohol dilates the blood vessels which can induce persipiration. If alcohol is drunk to excess sweating can become a problem. It can also be a problem if you have an intolerance to alcohol. I’d recommend keeping within the maximum 14 units of alcohol per week advised.

DOES bacteria cause haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around back passage. They can become irritated by passing bowel movements. They are not caused by bacteria.

MY grandchildren want a kitten – but my husband is worried they could get something called Cat Scratch Disease. Is this a real condition?

It does exist. However, it is extremely rare. CSD is caused by a type of bacteria which can cause infection in the area of a cat scratch. The symptoms are usually mild and it’s treatable with antibiotics. It’s not generally something that would stop children having a kitten or a puppy.