Ask our Doc
Don’t be shy – Chat’s Dr Martin Edwards is a family GP who’s seen it all before…
Vomiting blood Q
After a heavy binge, I was shocked to vomit bright-red blood. Have I done some damage? Kath, 37
A
Violent vomiting may have caused a tear in the lining of your gullet. the blood looks alarming, but the tear usually heals by itself. see your gp to rule out other causes, and go to A&E at once if the blood returns.
Swollen knee Q
My GP says the swelling on my knee is housemaid’s knee! Does it still exist? Ayla, 54
A
yes, though nowadays it’s more likely to be triggered by exercises or diy than scrubbing! rubbing when kneeling causes a build-up of fluid over the surface of the kneecap. if there’s no infection, it should settle with rest, but may need an injection or surgery.
Worrying spot Q
A dimpled spot on my chin is oozing pus. Antibiotics haven’t helped and I’m too scared to go back to my GP... I’m terrified in case it’s cancer.
Mandy, 41 A
if you can’t face your doctor, try your dentist! this sounds like a dental sinus. A tooth has died and the root has become infected, causing an abscess which is draining pus through a narrow channel – a sinus – onto your face. treatment means removing the infected tooth.