ASK THE DOCTOR

Q

My 10-year-old son is a little bit overweight, not much, though people comment. He eats and exercises just like his friends and he’s perfectly healthy. Do I need to help him lose weight? K.D., Qld.

Arrange for him to have a general health and development check with his GP. That would include his height and weight. Ask the doctor to discuss healthy nutrition and exercise as part of the advice to him.

Q

My voice is changing and it seems weaker than it used to be, sometimes even shaky. Does everybody’s voice change with age? L.L., WA.

Ageing can cause changes in your voice because of changes in the tissues of your larynx. However, there are some medial reasons for changes in the voice which need to be considered, including gastro-oesophageal reflux, neurological problems, and allergies. Your GP can help investigate the cause.

Q

I’m very anxious about giving birth next month, in the middle of Coronavirus. How do I keep us both healthy? L.A., Tas.

You need to consider this in your birth plan with your obstetrician or midwife. Pregnant women are considered a vulnerable group so you need to maintain physical distancing and follow hygiene advice carefully. The

Royal Australian and

New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has published some useful advice: ranzcog.edu.au/ statements-guidelines/ covid-19-statement/ information-forpregnant-women.

Q

I’ve started walking to get fit which has been really great for me, but I’m getting a lot of chafing sores between my legs and sometimes under my arms. I’m 65 and I’m not overweight. What can I do to help it? D.S., SA.

Make sure you are wearing fitted exercise pants and tops rather than loose clothing. If you wear loose shorts, wear tight exercise shorts underneath to cover your thighs down to your knees. Stay hydrated.

Ask your doctor to check the rash if it does not resolve.

Q

I’ve had thyroid nodules detected in the past and they were benign but sizeable. How often should I have them rechecked? R.W., Vic.

Because you have larger nodules they need to be monitored regularly. The frequency of monitoring will depend on the size and rate of growth, the features of the nodules on ultrasound and whether you notice any symptoms. This will vary from six to 18 months.