The Doc Replies
Our expert answers your medical questions
My elderly mother has norovirus. Should I be concerned?
During lockdown, the labs that detect norovirus or the winter vomiting bug as it is also known, were seeing very low levels of the bug. But it is on the rise now, indicating people are not being quite so careful.
Norovirus is highly infectious. It can cause high temperature, violent nausea and vomiting, and lead to dehydration.
It is important that sufferers drink plenty of water, but in small sips and stop eating until the vomiting stops. At that point they should resume eating, little and often.
In an elderly or very young person, norovirus has the potential to be serious. An elderly person may need intravenous fluids.
In less serious cases, over the counter rehydration sachets can be used to prevent dehydration. There is medication to stop diarrhoea but it should not to be given to children.
Vomiting usually lasts a day or two, and diarrhoea five to seven days. It is important to wash hands frequently. Sufferers must stay off work or school for 48 hours after symptoms settle.
What’s the best way to treat a minor burn?
It is important to cool the burn immediately with cool running water for 20 minutes.
Do not put ointments and creams on the burn. There is an old wives’ tale that butter helps but it only makes the burn worse.
Remove jewellery and clothing near the burned area because it may swell. Cling film – particularly for larger burns – or a dressing can be used to protect the injury.
It is also important to keep it clean.
Is it true that coffee keeps you awake at night?
Yes because it contains caffeine, a plant substance that occurs in coffee beans, tea leaves and cocoa beans and can also be made synthetically. Caffeine is a stimulant.
It works by blocking the effects of adenosine that occurs naturally in our bodies to make us feel sleepy. It is long lasting.
Studies have shown that taking caffeine six hours before bedtime can prevent sleep, depending on your sensitivity to it.