Ask our Doc
Don’t be shy – Chat’s Dr Martin Edwards is a family GP who’s seen it all before…
Wrinkly skin Q I’ve started running, but my friend says all that jiggling will stretch my skin and give me wrinkles! Helen, 47
A Running may involve being outdoors in all weather, and lead to weight loss, both of which could exaggerate a few wrinkles. But there’s no evidence that running will stretch skin. Use a moisturiser with SPF and get out there!
Niggling cough Q I’ve had a dry, tickly cough for weeks. I’ve tried many cough medicines, but none have helped. Maggie, 51 Baby thrush Q I keep taking my baby to see my midwife because I think he has thrush in his mouth – but she says nothing’s wrong. How can I tell for myself? Karen, 35
A It can be tricky to tell the difference between fluffy, white thrush patches on a baby’s mouth or tongue, A Cough mixtures might temporarily soothe a cough, but can’t cure it. A cough persisting over three weeks could mean allergy, infection, the aftermath of a cold, or occasionally more serious causes, including cancer. See your doctor for a chest exam and maybe some tests, including an X-ray.
Bee sting Q I was stung by a bee in the garden and we all panicked! What should you do? Alison, 48
A Don’t panic! If a bee has left its sting in your skin, try to scrape it off with a knife or fingernail. Ice cubes or a dab of bicarbonate of soda can soothe pain. For wasp stings, try vinegar. Watch for an allergic reaction and get help immediately, if you feel begin to feel faint or unwell. and milk curds. If you can gently scrape them away they’re likely to be milk. Sore nipples if you breastfeed, or baby pulling away from his feeds also suggest thrush.
‘Erm,it’s a bit... personal’ Discharge fear Q I’m pregnant, and getting a clear-white discharge from my vagina which is getting heavier. Nat, 28
A It sounds like you have leucorrhoea, an increase in vaginal discharge, due to a rise in oestrogen during pregnancy or, sometimes, puberty. It’s normal and should stop after pregnancy, but see your GP if it turns discoloured or smelly, or you become itchy or sore.
Bad breath Q Even though I brush my teeth my breath smells. People back away when I speak and I daren’t get close or kiss anyone! Chloe, 33
A Brushing regularly, mouthwash and avoiding spicy food usually controls bad breath, though your doctor can rule out rarer causes. But you may have halitophobia, the belief that your breath smells when it doesn’t. Counselling can help, so talk to your GP.