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The Doc Replies Humid weather makes her feel
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| Q | I THOUGHT longer hours of daylight in summer were meant to give us more energy, but I feel so sleepy with this humid weather and never feel like doing anything active. I’m usually very energetic and play a lot of sport. |
| A |
It’s common to feel a bit lethargic in warm weather. It’s easy to become dehydrated and this can make you feel less energetic. It’s important to increase your fluid intake when it’s warm to make sure you’re not dehydrated. Although it sounds strange to be encouraging you to do more when you’re feeling tired, being active can make you feel more energetic. |
| Q | MY DAUGHTER-in-law (33) has a heart murmur. Is it dangerous? |
| A | A heart murmur is the name given to the noise caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart valves. Murmurs can be caused by congenital heart conditions and also if a valve narrows or leaks. There are many different types — some can be dangerous and some won’t cause any problems. |
| Q |
IF I’VE injured myself should I treat the area with heat or ice first? |
| A |
If the area is becoming bruised and swollen then first put an ice pack on and elevate the area. Ongoing injuries and muscle pains can respond to heat treatment. |
| Q | ARE MIDGES a danger to our health? |
| A | No, but they can be an irritation. If you’re worried, use an insect repellent and wear trousers and long-sleeved shirts. Antihistamines may help with the itch resulting from any bites. |
| Q | I’VE had an itchy scalp for ages. My GP has prescribed different shampoos but none of them help. |
| A |
An itchy scalp can be caused by a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, or it can be down to allergies. Try using a baby shampoo that’s kind to the scalp. Tar-based shampoos can also sometimes be helpful. |
| Q | I was taken to hospital with acute pneumonia and heart failure last Christmas. An X-ray in March showed lungs were clear but if I sneeze or breathe in hard I get pain in my ribs. I’m worried because I suffer from osteoporosis. |
| A | The pain may simply be muscular. You’ve had pneumonia and coughing a lot can cause a strain at the muscles around your ribs. Sometimes the covering of the lungs can become inflamed and this can also result in pain that may take a bit longer to clear up. Good news is your X-ray is clear so you’re on the way to recovery. |
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You can send in your queries by e-mail. The Doc will answer as many questions as possible on his page but is sorry he can't reply personally. Send your queries to doc@sundaypost.com |
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© All copyright D.C. Thomson & Co. Ltd., 2010
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