Statins made my legs ache, but when I stopped them I developed severe pins and needles, and it’s now painful to walk any distance. Is there anything I can do? Colin Bower, Nottingham. Your symptoms are highly suggestive of peripheral neuropathy, a common condition that occurs when the peripheral nerves — which run from the … Read more
I am 71 and started the menopause aged 47 but, ten years ago, I developed night sweats that cause me to wake each hour with sweat dripping off my nose and joints. I’m getting depressed about this. Wyn Brown, Spennymoor, Newcastle. I feel for you and, sadly, you are not alone in experiencing such troublesome … Read more
Q: I have had no sense of taste since December and a coating on my tongue. I’ve not been ill, and my doctor hasn’t a clue what’s going on. I am 72. Mrs C. Hemp, Ruislip, Middlesex. A: I understand why you feel anxious: an impaired sense of taste and smell are common symptoms of … Read more
My doctor has advised me to have my hernia treated, even though it doesn’t cause me pain. I would like to have the procedure under local anaesthetic, but the surgeon said the only options on the NHS were general or spinal — is that so? James Anthony, Hertford, Herts. Hernias are very common and occur … Read more
How to stamp out painful bunions for good: DR MARTIN SCURR answers your health questions By Martin Scurr for the Daily Mail Published: 22:27 BST, 14 September 2020 | Updated: 22:27 BST, 14 September 2020 I have a large bunion on my right foot, which makes walking difficult. It’s also hard to find proper shoes … Read more
Could you please tell me what can help to stop hair falling out? Is it caused by a lack of vitamins and minerals? Mrs D. Horrocks, Belper, Derbyshire. This is a very common complaint, and I imagine many other readers will be affected and interested in your question. Hair loss is linked to a wide … Read more
QUESTION: I get post-nasal drip. I was told it might be caused by acid reflux, but I don’t have the classic symptoms. What else could be causing it? Stephen Pearson, by email. ANSWER: Post-nasal drip (clinically, known as chronic rhinitis) is where mucus accumulates in the nose and drips down the throat, causing a sensation … Read more
I sleep only two to three hours a night and often wake up in between. I have tried relaxation exercises, reading, walking and even sleeping pills, but nothing works. Can you recommend anything to help? I am 47. Clare Sutton, by email. For any doctor, one of the most common and most difficult questions to … Read more
I have had bad breath for nine years. I do not want to go to church or work because people laugh at me and I have become depressed. I have visited different specialists and had my tonsils and my wisdom teeth removed. Please help me. Name withheld, by email. I am saddened by your letter. … Read more
I have osteoarthritis in both knees and have been taking anti-inflammatory medication and trying to exercise, but the pain is persistent and I am now unable to walk any distance. Please can you advise of alternatives to knee replacement surgery? I am 67 and in good health. Mr P. Pope, by email. It sounds as … Read more