The Doc Replies

Our expert answers your medical questions

My 40-year-old daughter is being treated for a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), should I be worried?

DVT is a blood clot in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. Symptoms are swelling, pain and tenderness in the calf that can extend to the thigh. The area may feel warm and look red as blood is diverted to the surface.

Occasionally there are no symptoms and sufferers may present with pulmonary embolism, when a bit of the clot breaks off and goes to the lung. This is dangerous.

Risks are increased after an op, usually by the patient’s inability to move and prevention measures are taken. Other risk factors include pregnancy, the contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy, obesity and underlying cancer.

Treatment for DVT is with warfarin, heparin or one of the newer anticoagulants. Compression stockings are important to reduce the risk of another DVT and post thrombotic syndrome. Prevention is better than cure for DVT, lose weight and exercise and on long journeys keep your legs moving.

My 16-year-old grandson has acne. How does he treat it?

Acne is very common and appears mainly on the face and chest. There are many different types of spots from black heads to pustules. If he is suffering from nodules, lumps or cysts he should see a doctor.

More mild acne can be treated by a pharmacist. There are various creams, lotions and gels. The next step is antibiotics. Roaccutane is used for serious cases and can only be prescribed by a dermatologist due to possible side effects. Your grandson should resist the temptation to squeeze or pick the spots as that will cause scarring.

I often suffer severe leg cramp.

Leg cramp is usually harmless. It usually occurs at night when people are resting. It can last from a few seconds to a few minutes.

If the cramps are very prolonged, or you have other symptoms such as numbness or swelling, you should see a doctor. Stretching and massage might help. If cramps are disturbing sleep, you could speak to your doctor about medication.

The Doc Replies

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