The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

I’ve had problems with posture, My doctor suspects kyphosis. What is it?

Kyphosis and scoliosis are curvatures of the spine. Kyphosis is a front to back curvature caused by wedging of vertebrae, effectively causing the sufferer to hunch over.

Kyphosis usually occurs later in life in those suffering osteoarthritis and more commonly osteoporosis. This results in wedge fractures in the vertebrae, that change the spine’s shape.

It is better to treat osteoporosis to prevent these fractures, which can be painful. Treatment generally depends on the underlying cause.

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that occurs most often during the growth spurt just before puberty. While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most scoliosis is unknown.

These conditions are nothing to do with poor posture, contrary to common belief.

Usually nothing needs to be done. But if the condition is more pronounced, then a back brace can help.

My grandson is having his adenoids removed. What are they?

Adenoids are similar to tonsils in that they are made of lymphoid tissue. They are part of the immune system and like the tonsils, are there to protect the body from infection but they are not essential.

They tend to be a problem in younger children and usually stop growing at age five to seven. They can be removed if they cause problems, like a blockage or obstructing breathing at night.

I often get a nosebleed and was told to pinch the bridge of my nose to stop but it doesn’t work.

This is a myth. When the nosebleed starts, you should put pressure over the fleshy part of your nose, blocking the nostrils, for up to 10 to 20 minutes.

You should not blow your nose because you will destroy the clot that is trying to form, and do not pick at it or it will bleed again.

Nosebleed can even be fatal in the elderly, although that is unusual. If it doesn’t settle or if they feel faint, they should dial 999.