THE DOC REPLIES

I’ve been prescribed warfarin and wondered if alcohol interferes with it. Am I still OK to drink?

Alcohol can increase the effect of warfarin and therefore the risk of bleeding. It is particularly dangerous if someone was to drink to excess. However, drinking sensibly, and only consuming one to two units a day occasionally, is unlikely to have a significant effect. It should be noted though that any degree of alcohol intake will have some effect.

My son is 18 months old and is quite clingy and wary of strangers or loud noises. I wondered if you thought this was normal for his age or if he could potentially have a development disorder?

In some development disorders, abnormalities can be noted from quite a young age. However, all of what you describe is normal for many toddlers. If you are concerned, your health visitor is a good source of information.

My late uncle died of something called silicosis. I wondered if you’d come across it before and could tell me what it is.

This is a lung condition which is often a result of exposure to airborne silica dust through work. The dust can cause inflammation of the airways and lung, resulting in scarring which often causes coughing and shortness of breath. There are a variety of different types of silicosis and the condition can vary depending on the extent of exposure to silica dust.

What’s the best way to build up muscles in my legs? I’m 70 and would like to exercise more.

It is normal for muscle bulk and power to decrease slightly with age. It is important to keen using your muscles to maintain their strength. Walking is a great form of exercise. It can be a very good way of keeping both cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength up. Check in your area, as there are often a number of exercise classes specifically targeted at retired people. These courses, which vary greatly depending on your base fitness level, can be accessed through local community centres.

I’ve been given statins but since taking them I’ve developed mental fuzziness.

There has been a lot of publicity regarding the use of statins and their side effects. Memory loss and forgetfulness have been documented as possible side effects. If you think you are having a problem with your statins then speak to your GP.

I have a yellowish complexion and was told it might be something called Gilbert’s Syndrome. What is it and should I get tested?

A genetic condition, Gilbert’s Syndrome results in higher levels of bilirubin in the blood stream. If you have noticed a change in complexion to yellow it could signify jaundice and it would be important to speak to your GP as to the cause of this. After an examination and, potentially, blood tests your doctor would be best placed to decide on what further tests needed to be carried out to establish the cause of your change in complexion.

Is there a cancer risk from using plastic containers to reheat my food in the microwave?

There is no scientific evidence to suggest a link between microwaving food in plastic containers and increased risk of cancer. Heating certain materials can have an effect on the release of chemicals though, so it’s important to use containers marked as microwave safe.

I’d like to go on a coach tour but get terrible travel sickness on the roads. Do you have any tips?

There are a number of anti-sickness medications which can be bought over the counter. Talk with the pharmacist if you are on medication to ensure that they do not interact with your prescribed drugs. Some people report ginger to be effective as well.