THE DOC REPLIES

I OFTEN find myself experiencing dizzy spells when I reach up – to put a plate in a high cupboard, for instance. Is this normal? I’m a 76-year-old woman in otherwise decent health.

This is not an unusual symptom. As we get older we can develop a bit of arthritis in our necks and also our blood vessels become a little less flexible. Often with neck movements, especially if you are looking upwards, this can momentarily impede the normal flow of blood, resulting in some dizziness. It is good to be aware that this has happened so that you avoid any sudden movements and hopefully will limit the symptoms.

I’VE been told not to take ibuprofen because I experience stomach pain. Why is this?

Ibuprofen is in a drug group called non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs, and these can cause some irritation to the stomach. In some cases they may cause stomach ulcers and can result in some bleeding. If you are already experiencing stomach pain then this medication may make it worse.

I HAVE impetigo on my upper lip, which never seems to heal fully. I’ve been to the doctor but she can’t seem to do anything about it. Do you have any tips?

Impetigo is a bacterial infection which usually causes lesions on the skin which are initially red and then start to weep and have yellow crusts on them. Usually, an antibiotic cream should clear this up or, in some cases if the infection is worse, then antibiotics by mouth. Sometimes after infection the skin can be left with some residual redness which should fade in time.

HOW do throat lozenges work?

Throat lozenges are usually made of compounds which anaesthetise the throat thereby soothing the symptoms on a transient basis. For painful sore throats, gargling with soluble aspirin can also help as this can reduce the inflammation. However, you should not do this if you have problems with your stomach. Aspirin and antiinflammatories are not recommended if you are under 16. Simple remedies such as hot drinks and honey can also be effective.

I’M a 58-year-old man and I’ve recently started driving taxis. I enjoy it but the main problem is my knee often becomes painful and I have to stop and stretch it out. Is this normal or is a visit to my GP in order?

It depends if your knee troubles you at other times. If it is mainly when you are driving and spending long periods in the car in the same position then often it is not uncommon for the joints to become stiff. It sounds as if you are doing the right thing by having frequent breaks to stop and stretch it out. If, however, you have constant pain with your knee or experience other symptoms such as swelling or the knee giving way then it may be appropriate to discuss this with your doctor.

MY left eye has started to twitch several times a day. It’s quite distracting but should I get the doctor to have a look?

This is a very common problem, often with one of the superficial nerves just causing some twinges in the muscles. Usually these episodes are self-limiting. They can happen for a spell of time and then settle down themselves. Usually it should not need a doctor.

A FRIEND said eating a banana might help me sleep better due to the potassium in it. Is that just an old wives’ tale, or is there something in this?

Bananas contain potassium but there is no real evidence, as far as I am aware, that taking potassium-rich foods before bedtime will promote sleep. If you are eating a healthy diet then you should have normal levels of potassium. However, it would certainly do no harm and if you are having trouble sleeping then maybe a banana at bedtime might just do the trick!

Unfortunately The Doc can’t directly reply to individual letters. When in doubt speak to your GP