Ask the doctor
Professor Kerryn Phelps answers readers’ questions on cancer treatment, dental care for kids and more.
Q I have no close living relatives. So what should I do with my advanced health directive, to make sure that my wishes are honoured? F.B., Qld. An advanced health care directive comes into effect only if you are unable to make your own decisions. Make sure your next of kin or closest friend is clear about your instructions. Give them a copy of the directive. Your lawyer and family doctor can also keep a copy in your files.
Q I am 85 and don’t want any more cancer treatment, but my doctor is pushy. What can I do? What are my rights? D.O., Vic.
You have the right, provided you are fully informed of all of your options and the likely outcome of your decision, to undergo or decline any recommended treatment. If you do not agree with the advice you are being given, ask your GP to refer you for a second oncology opinion.
Q Does my child really need to clean his teeth twice a day? Isn’t once enough? C.C., SA.
Professional advice is twice a day, after breakfast and before bed. As soon as two teeth touch each other, floss between them once a day.
Q I am 80 and the bunions on my feet are really affecting the shoes I can buy and I can only wear slippers. Am I too old to have my feet operated on? I’d love to get rid of my bunions. B.R., NSW.
Provided you are in reasonably good health, your age is not a barrier to bunion surgery. There is a relatively new minimally invasive technique which has a shorter recovery time and is less painful than the standard method, so find a surgeon who performs this procedure.
Q My daughter-in-law wants to get my six-month-old granddaughter’s ears pierced. My husband and I are terribly upset. We are not backward-looking people, but can’t bear to think of her being in pain. I am only hoping that the piercer refuses to do it. Is it safe and do you have some advice? N.G., ACT.
Ear piercing in babies is common in some cultures. The American Academy of Pediatrics says there’s little risk at any age if the piercing is performed carefully and cared for conscientiously. A topical anaesthetic can be applied to minimise the pain. However, in my view it is better to wait until it is the child’s decision about their own body, and they are old enough to care for the piercing themselves.