Real-life issues and The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

Is coronavirus and Covid-19 the same? Why is the death rate so high in some people?

The virus we are experiencing is novel coronavirus, part of a family of coronaviruses, some of which cause the common cold while others have caused outbreaks of respiratory illnesses like Sars. Covid-19 is the disease caused by novel coronavirus.

There are a number of theories explaining why the death rate is higher in some people. In some people, the immune system doesn’t work well enough while in others the immune system overreacts. So, you may have older people with various health conditions and who may be smokers, whose immune system is weakened as a result and does not cope with Covid-19. Then there are some young, fit people who do not do well because it is thought their immune response goes into overdrive and, in a sense, attacks the body. This could be to do with the genetics of the immune system, but we do not know for sure.

We must all watch for symptoms: a new and persistent cough, high temperature and loss of, or change in taste and/or smell. If you have any of these, you must arrange to be tested and self-isolate for seven days. Your family must also selfisolate for 14 days.

My doctor says my blood test shows neutropenia. What is that?

Neutropenia occurs when you have too few neutrophils – a type of white blood cell that fights infections, most specifically bacteria. Some people live with a slightly low levels of neutrophils and it does no harm. Some drugs cause a reduction in neutrophils. Viruses can also cause neutropenia, as can some autoimmune diseases like lupus. If you are worried contact your doctor. A dark, brown jagged-edged mark has appeared on my face. Should I be concerned?

Doctors would apply the ABCDE test. A = asymmetry. Are the sides of the mark different? B = border. Is its border irregular? C = colour. Does it have several colours or is the colour changing? D = diameter. Is it getting bigger, or is it larger than 6mm? E = evolving. Is it changing? If your answer to any of these is “yes” it is wise to contact your doctor to have it checked.

The Doc Replies

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