THE DOC REPLIES
What happens if I take too much paracetamol over a long period of time? I’ve been taking 1500mg a day for the past few months for a back pain.
Paracetamol is generally a safe pain-killer even with long-term use – as long as you keep within the recommended dose. Going above the recommended dose, even for short periods of time, is potentially dangerous and should be avoided.
What is a duodenal ulcer and how does it differ from a “normal” ulcer?
A duodenal ulcer is a breach in the lining of the area where food leaves the stomach. This type of ulcer can be caused by antiinflammatories, and also, as we have found over the last decade or so, this is often associated with a bug called Helicobacter. This is actually quite easy to treat and avoids the operations that were previously necessary for this type of ulcer.
I had a bad trip at home recently. Have you got any tips to avoid it happening in future? My son keeps threatening to put me in an inflatable vest.
Trips at home are common especially as people get older and there can be lots of reasons for that involving eyesight, muscle power, dizziness and trip hazards such as rugs. If you have episodes of dizziness or weakness it would be best to see your doctor but, generally speaking, keeping the muscles strong while removing trip hazards in the house as much as possible will minimise the risks of falls.
I faint at the sight of needles – but need an injection for going abroad soon. Is there a tablet I can take?
Tablets are not normally recommended for this sort of problem as they can have side effects. However, on occasion, medications like Diazepam have been used to help people cope. I think it would be best to discuss it with your practice nurse prior to your appointment so that they can look at ways of minimising your risk of fainting for this injection.
I have nasal polyps and was given a steroid inhaler. How long can I use it for?
Steroid inhalers are useful treatments for nasal polyps and are generally safe in the long-term. Occasionally, patients who are at greater risk of cataracts of the eyes or glaucoma need more careful follow up treatment.
My hands have become dry and cracked after handling clothes all day at work. Is there an over-the-counter solution to sore, dry hands?
Mild, dry, sore hands can be treated over the counter and your pharmacist will be happy to talk you through the best options. More extensive problems are best dealt with by your GP. There are lots of things that can be done for this. You might want to consider if you are reacting to some substance in the work place, especially if the skin problems are more extensive.
My granddaughter compulsively pulls her hair out, one strand at a time. Is this worth seeing a GP about?
This is known as Trichotillomania. It is an impulse control disorder where the person is not able to stop pulling their hair out. They feel a compulsion to do so and then after pulling their hair out they get some relief from this. Simply telling your granddaughter to stop doing it will very likely be ineffective. You should certainly see your doctor about this as there is quite a lot of help available, most of which centres around behavioural therapy. The most important thing you and your family can do is support your granddaughter.
What’s the best way to remove earwax?
Ear wax generally falls out by itself, but if you are having trouble with this put in a couple of drops of olive or almond oil in your ear at night time. If you are having ongoing problems with ear wax then I would see your doctor or practice nurse who can decide whether syringing is appropriate.