Ask our doc
Don’t be shy – Chat’s Dr Martin Edwards is a family GP who’s seen it all before…
Dirty breathing
Q I’m worried about air pollution and I’ve seen people wearing face masks to work. Should I wear one too? Marianne, Brixton
AMasks can reduce particulates – potentially harmful specks of carbon and chemicals. But the mask has to be so close-fitting, it’s difficult to breathe! Best to try to find a cleaner route to work.
Post-flight deaf
QOn my last flight, I had terrible ear pain as the plane came in to land. Two weeks later, I still can’t hear properly. Satwinder, Southall
AAs the aircraft descends, air pressure increases and your Eustachian tube equalises pressure. A blocked tube can lead to eardrum damage and fluid in your ear. It should get better within a few weeks.
My numb hand
Q I’m woken up by pain and numbness on the side of my hand, and up my arm. What can I do? Kara, Wolverhampton
ASounds like carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by pressure on a nerve in your wrist. Usually it’s out of the blue, though sometimes repetitive movement or swelling from arthritis or pregnancy is to blame.
Treatment might mean a wrist splint, a steroid injection or, occasionally, surgery.
Can I anti-age?
QI’ve seen lots of ads for wrinkle creams. Do any really work? Suzanne, Plymouth
AThey all work, after a fashion. Some moisturise your skin, or mildly irritate it to puff it up and temporarily reduce wrinkles, and might contain sunscreen to prevent further damage.
Creams containing tretinoin can reduce wrinkles more permanently, but also inflame sensitive skin.