The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

My teenage son has an extremely sore throat and flu-like symptoms. Is it possible he has glandular fever?

Glandular fever is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus.

It is most common in young adults and teenagers and is known as the “kissing disease” as it is passed by close contact such as sharing cups. It can take up to six weeks for symptoms to appear. You usually only get it once because your body makes antibodies to protect against further infection.

It is possible to have glandular fever with few or no symptoms; this is more likely in children and folk over 40. It is diagnosed with a blood test. Symptoms are a very sore throat and swollen glands – usually in the neck. You can also have swelling in the spleen. A swollen spleen is more prone to damage, so we advise no contact sports for eight weeks. Glandular fever can cause flu-like symptoms and tiredness for a couple of weeks and there is a possibility of mild inflammation of the liver and jaundice.

There is no specific treatment but if your son has it, he should avoid spreading the virus, drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol, take painkillers and rest.

What is the treatment for gout? I have sore feet and my wife thinks I might have the condition.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by small crystals forming in the joints. It is unlikely to be the cause of simple sore feet as, although gout does most commonly affect the big toe, it leads to sudden attacks of severe pain and swelling. Classically, a sufferer cannot even bear the weight of bedclothes on an affected joint. Treatment of an acute episode is rest, anti-inflammatories and ice packs. Can granny pass on anything when she kisses my new baby? I’m worried about cold sores.

Cold sores are caused by the Herpes simplex virus. This virus can cause serious infection in a young baby, as their immune system will not have fully developed. If anyone with a cold sore kisses a baby, they can pass the virus to them, so it is important not to do this. It is also important to wash your hands before touching the baby and avoid sharing towels.

The Doc Replies

The Sunday Post, Skypark Suite 3/6, 8 Elliot Place, Glasgow G3 8EP or email us at doc@sundaypost.com