Thedoc Replies
Our expert answers your medical questions
I have terrible anxiety attacks and flashbacks. Do I have PTSD?
PTSD, or post traumatic stress disorder, can develop after living through a traumatic event, such as a car accident, a violent attack or surviving a serious illness. If, after four weeks, you still get upsetting thoughts, have flashbacks or nightmares, ruminate, feel guilty and avoid anything that reminds you of the event, speak to your GP.
People may distract themselves with hobbies or work, or emotionally numb themselves. If that does not work, they begin to feel lonely and withdrawn from those around them. People can become anxious and/ or angry, and be unable to sleep or concentrate. It can lead to losing a job or the breakdown of personal relationships. Treatment can include antidepressants and psychological therapies, like trauma-focused CBT and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing).
What is fibromyalgia?
This is a long-term condition, and is essentially widespread pain. People with this condition are more sensitive to pain, get easily fatigued and can experience muscle stiffness and trouble sleeping. Headaches or trouble with memory and concentration can be symptoms too, and irritable bowel syndrome often overlaps with fibromyalgia. There is no cure, but lifestyle changes can help, like exercise and learning relaxation techniques. CBT can also be used to help people cope with having a chronic pain condition.
What are quick remedies for constipation?
First, work out why you are constipated. Often it is dietary, due to not eating enough fibre or exercising enough, or a side effect of taking new medications. Some people ignore the urge to go to the bathroom and if you ignore it long enough the urge disappears, so it is important to make time in your day to go. Make sure you are drinking enough water and cut down on alcohol, which can be dehydrating. Walking and running can help, as can increasing the fibre in your diet. You can get a shortterm laxative from your pharmacist, but if you are an older person with persistent new symptoms, or experiencing bloating and blood in your stool, you should go to your GP.