ASK THE DOCTOR
Q I have a toddler who’s always falling over and I’m concerned when he takes a knock to the head. Are there any signs I should be on the lookout for that would indicate he may have seriously hurt himself? H.G., NSW.
Falls are an occupational hazard for a toddler just learning to walk. You need to be so vigilant, but they will still get the occasional head bump. Warnings signs of head injury are loss of consciousness (even briefly), drowsiness, unequal pupil size, vomiting, unsteadiness, irritability and clear or bloody discharge from the nose or ear.
Q My boyfriend’s snoring is driving me batty. I’m a light sleeper and his snoring is so loud that it wakes me up at night. Sometimes I even have to sleep in another room. He’s knows he snores, but has never tried doing anything about it. Any suggestions? M.E., Vic.
Speak to him about seeing a sleep physician to arrange a sleep study to check for sleep apnoea. An ear, nose and throat surgeon may also check him. If he is overweight he will be advised to lose weight, and also to avoid alcohol and smoking. Treatment options include a mandibular (jaw) advancement splint, nasal or throat surgery, or a CPAP machine.
Q Is there an ideal time of year to have a flu shot and does it actually make a difference? I’ve heard some people say they still get sick. B.N., Qld.
The influenza vaccine is released yearly during autumn, in response to the types of flu seen in the northern hemisphere in the previous winter season. Some people may get minor side effects from the vaccine, but nothing like the severity of the flu or its complications. Some people who get sick after a vaccine may have caught another similar virus coincidentally.
Q I am 90 and currently taking five tablets a day for high blood pressure. However, the side effects include problems with mental alertness and co-ordination. Are there other medication options available, without these side effects? M.M., NSW.
Ask your GP or cardiologist to conduct a medication review. They will also investigate you for other possible causes of your symptoms.
Q Sometimes it feels as though my upper eyelid is twitching, although I can’t ever see it moving and can’t think of any reason that causes it. What is going on? D.L., NSW.
The twitching may be a sign of a nutritional deficiency. One common cause is deficiency of the mineral magnesium. Try a magnesium supplement. Also reduce alcohol and caffeine, don’t smoke and catch up on sleep.