ASK THE DOCTOR
Our health expert answers readers’ wellbeing questions.
QI took HRT (hormone replacement therapy) to manage menopause for nearly 20 years until a few years ago, when my doctor advised me to stop. Before I started, my bones were terrible. Today, I’ve lost 5cm in height but kept my hair and am still regaining health. Did the prolonged period of taking HRT protect my bones in any shape or form? J.C. Bone breakdown causes osteoporosis, which increases the risk of a fracture. HRT can slow bone loss and new research shows that in some cases, HRT can improve bone density and structure in women after menopause and up to age 60. There are specific osteoporosis treatments which may be more suitable for you now, so discuss this with your GP.
QI love fruit, but I sometimes get hives from it due to its salicylate content. Do you have any recommendations? And does it matter if the fruit is ripe or unripened? S.S. Fruits highest in salicylates include apples, apricots, berries and cherries. Interestingly, the salicylate level in fruits and vegetables is higher when they are unripe and decreases as they ripen. I advise you to see a dietician to work out your food allergies. Keep an antihistamine handy if you get hives.
QI am a vibrant woman of 86 years old. While I’m not the raging beauty I once was, I am still interested in caring for my skin. How can you make the most of your skin in your 80s? K.H. Skin health is both internal and external. The “inner glow” comes from good lifestyle decisions, such as having a healthy diet, minimal or no alcohol and never smoking. Protection from the sun is important at all ages and moisturising twice daily more important with advancing age. You can ask your doctor about a prescription cream called tretinoin (a form of vitamin A), which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration from sun damage.
QI think I may have gluten intolerance as I frequently have an upset stomach (bloating and gas) after eating bread or pizza. What steps can I take to have this diagnosed? B.C. It is important to check for coeliac disease. There is a blood test which can see if you have the gene, and a test for gliadin antibodies (a protein in some grains). The definitive test is a gastroscopy and biopsy of the upper small intestine. Your symptoms suggest that you should be investigated.
QI’m pregnant and in my third trimester. My husband and I have had a whooping cough vaccination, but I’ve heard that anyone who comes into contact with the baby once she arrives should have the vaccine too. Is that true? S.A. Whooping cough is highly contagious and particularly dangerous for babies. Your friends and other family members may have had vaccinations in the past but it wanes over time. It is recommended that anyone who is to come in contact with a newborn should have an immunisation at least two weeks prior.