THe dOC RePLIeS
How does a detached retina occur? My mother has been diagnosed with it.
A detached retina can happen by chance, due to injury, as a result of surgery, or in people vulnerable because of the shape of the eye ball, otherwise known as high myopia. Any sudden loss of vision, particularly when it’s described as a “curtain coming down” certainly needs emergency attention from a professional. My grandchildren have recently returned from music festival T in the Park and have since apparently admitted they took legal high drugs. What is the risk of long-term damage?
So-called legal highs are now known as psychoactive substances. In the short-term they cause impaired consciousness and can result in dangerous interaction with other substances in the system. In the long-run, they are likely to be associated with brain impairment, particularly if used by someone who has a brain that is still developing. I’m a 62-year-old man who’s never had a relationship because of the size of my penis, which is very small. I’m very frustrated and lonely.
Most men have hang-ups about the size of their genitalia. However, as the saying goes: “Size doesn’t matter.” It is the quality of relationships that count rather than the size of your penis. If you are entering a relationship it might be worth sharing your concern with a potential partner beforehand. You may find it’s not an issue at all. My lower eyelid feels like it’s beginning to turn inside-out. What could it be?
They eyelids can change shape especially as we get older. Sometimes the eyelid can turn in a little on itself and this is called entropion. Sometimes the eyelid can turn out and be a little gaping – this is called ectropion. In minor cases, sometimes lubricants or gels can be useful. Is there such a thing as slipping rib syndrome? If so, what is it?
Slipping rib syndrome is not medically recognised as an condition on its own. Some people are aware of the side of the rib cage shifting slightly, apparently in association with the rib cartilage moving. However, most doctors are sceptical that it exists. Speak to your GP. I work on my feet all day but recently I’ve been troubled by cramping in my calves. Is there something I could be doing to help it?
You should have a high fluid intake, if necessary using isotonic fluids, prior to being on your feet all day. You might find isotonic fluids, like Lucozade, helpful. Gently stretching the calves before and after work might also Unfortunately The Doc can’t directly reply to individual letters. When in doubt speak to your GP
Nicotine gum is certainly safer than smoking a cigarette. However, it is nonetheless harmful to circulation. My advice would be to try giving up the gum, too. Over the past year I’ve felt my eyes drying up. Is it worth buying drops from the chemist?
Dry eyes are very common and many people use lubricant drops. It is worthwhile, though, having your optician or doctor check this as some medications can reduce tear flow. Some medical conditions such as sicca syndrome can also be responsible.