THE DOC REPLIES

I HAD a urinary tract infection late last year but since then my waterworks haven’t been right. I was given antibiotics – is it possible some long-term damage has been done?

It is unlikely for a UTI to cause lasting damage. I’d advise speaking to your GP to discuss any ongoing symptoms. It would especially be important to do this if you have noticed any blood in your urine, as this may well warrant further investigation.

MY daughter not only bites her nails but nibbles the skin. Will this do any long-term harm?

It is unlikely that any long-term harm will be caused. If your daughter was to stop biting, it is likely the skin and nails would recover fully. But damage to the nail bed can cause longer problems with nail growth. There are treatments available over the counter, including a fluid that can be painted on the nails to discourage biting. There is also a suggestion that keeping the nails neatly trimmed can help. There is sometimes an underlying reason as to why people bite their nails such as nervousness or anxiety and it may be worth asking your daughter if there’s anything troubling her.

MY grandson is 20 months old and has terrible tantrums. Have you any advice about dealing with them?

Although it is known as the Terrible Twos, temper tantrums can often start around 18 months and are very common. It can be one of the early forms of a child trying to express themselves and becoming frustrated. As an adult we often feel angry but find other ways to express it. There is no way to deal with temper tantrums but often distraction, drawing their attention away from the tantrum can help. It’s important to keep calm as losing your temper will only heighten the situation.

A friend said I should avoid trans fats – do you know what they are and what foods they are in?

They are formed when oil is made more solid by a process called hydrogenation. Consuming a diet high in trans fats can lead to higher cholesterol levels. They are commonly found as ingredients in processed foods, particularly fast foods. Take a look at the product’s label – they are usually listed as partially hydrogenated fat or oil. You need to reduce your trans fats intake. Cut down on fried foods, cakes, pastries and biscuits. People are now eating less in the way of trans fats because many manufacturers have reduced them or removed them from their products.

WHAT is the difference between ibuprofen and paracetemol? Do they have a different effect on the body?

Paracetamol and ibuprofen come from two different families of medication. Paracetamol is classed as a mild painkiller and does not have significant anti-inflammatory activity, whereas ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. They work on different receptors and pathways within the body. They are generally considered safe to take in combination but this may differ for people with certain health conditions and you should always read the label. Your chemist should be able to advise you if you are safe to take a medication.

I experienced bad morning sickness with the pregnancy of my first son. I’ve just fallen pregnant again – can I prevent sickness?

Unfortunately nausea and vomiting in a previous pregnancy does mean it is more likely that it will happen subsequently. However, no two pregnancies are the same. Reducing stress levels, and ginger supplements may help. It is important to avoid any foods that are triggering morning sickness. Getting plenty of rest, regularly drinking plenty of fluids in small volumes and eating smaller meals more frequently can also help. Remember your midwife is a good source of information.