THE DOC REPLIES

MY grandchildren are allowed to put a lot of salt on their meals. I’m careful about my salt intake but I don’t want to offend my daughter so am reluctant to point it out. Is it unhealthy for a child to have too much salt?

You are right to be concerned. Many of us, adults and children, take more salt than we should and it can cause health problems, especially raising blood pressure. Adults should eat no more than six grams of salt a day, and for children that level should be much less. Many foods contain salt so, if possible, it is a good idea to avoid adding extra at the table. If children become accustomed to the salty taste it then makes it more difficult for them to cut down in later life, and they will probably tend to always prefer saltier foods. Talking about it with your daughter in a nonjudgemental way may raise her awareness and encourage her to make healthy changes.

I broke my leg and have a plaster cast. Will I be OK to go on a flight next week?

Most airlines will allow you to travel but it is certainly best to check with your operator or airline first. It is also a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare team. Sometimes they will suggest having the plaster split, especially if you are travelling on a longer flight, as legs can become more swollen which would be a problem with a rigid cast. You don’t say whether it is just your lower leg or your whole leg which is in plaster. If it is the whole leg then you may also need to discuss suitable seating arrangements with the airline.

I heard eating too much black liquorice is bad for you. Is this true?

Yes, it can be bad for you especially if you have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure. It contains a sweetening compound from liquorice root which can cause potassium levels to fall. This in turn can cause heart problems such as abnormal heart rhythm and can raise blood pressure. It can also make you feel lethargic. Black liquorice can also interact with some medication. Eating small amounts should not cause a problem.

MY grandson loves drinking juice but struggles with water. Is diluting juice better than diet fizzy drinks? I’m worried about his teeth.

I would certainly encourage your grandson to drink diluting juice as an alternative to soft drinks as these often contain caffeine and other additives. Best stick to sugar-free diluting juice – and only use small amounts.

I’VE been taking Citalopram for over a year now. I want to come off them – what’s the best way to do it?

It’s good that you are feeling better and have decided you’re ready to stop taking the medication. However it’s worth discussing it with your doctor who can advise on reduction of dose. Generally you would not stop taking Citalopram immediately but taper off over two to three weeks.

I am on Warfarin tablets. I wondered if it would be safe to have a hot toddy if I’m suffering from the cold. I know whisky thins your blood.

Drinking alcohol while taking this medication can cause the level of Warfarin to be increased, which would make you more prone to bleeding. However, if you are unwell with a cold I am sure having the odd hot toddy would not make a huge amount of difference. Just make sure you don’t overdo it.

I’VE been quite poorly with various stomach issues in the past but am feeling much better. I’m starting a new job soon and wondered if they have a right to see my medical history.

Your new employer would not be able to see your medical record without your consent and it would be unusual for them to request this. If you are off sick for a long period of time then they might request a medical report but this would require you signing a consent form for your doctor. Employers don’t routinely request past medical history.