The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

I am worried I might be at risk of a stroke and would like to know what to look for.

It is extremely important that we all recognise the signs of stroke and act fast. People should regard it as the brain’s equivalent of a heart attack: a brain attack.

This “FAST” reminder might help F: is the face drooping?; A: is there arm weakness, leg weakness or both; S: is there speech difficulty? If there areany of these signs then T: time to call 999.

Other symptoms include confusion, numbness, and a problem with balance or co-ordination.

This is an emergency and patients need to get to hospital fast, even with mild symptoms.

Stroke occurs when a blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, causing it to lose oxygen. It becomes damaged and can die.

Sometimes this happens when there is a blockage in an artery, or it can be a clot from somewhere else, it can also happen when a damaged artery bursts and bleeds, although that is much less common.

Stroke is diagnosed with either a CT or MRI scan.

I have a lipoma on my back that is not painful but is unsightly. Is removal straightforward?

This type of treatment is in general not available on the NHS. This is because it is no threat to health.

Removal may be possible privately, but with any form surgery there are risks, such as bleeding and infection.

Lipomas are not dangerous. If it is not giving you any bother I would advise you to leave it alone.

I have two cats that I love. But I am pregnant and worried because I heard cat poo can make you blind. Is it true?

Yes, cat poo can contain the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause toxoplasmosis. You can also get it from under-cooked meat. It can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy.

You do not usually suffer complications if you have a healthy immune system, but it is possible to get eye infections that can lead to blindness if untreated.

Avoid touching the cat litter tray or if you have to touch it, wear gloves. Similarly wear gloves when you are gardening.

The Doc Replies

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