My baby
often cries for hours at a time. She doesn’t need a change and isn’t hungry or sleepy. I’m at my wits’ end — what can I do to help her?
A
You need to speak to your health visitor or a specialist crying baby service, if there’s one in your area. Babies cry and often we don’t know why. It’s very likely your baby will outgrow this phase but you need support and advice on how to best manage it.
Q
Any advice
for coping with restless legs?
A
Dopamine agonists are sometimes used or nerve pain drugs such as gabapentin and carbamazepine. They all have potential side effects but may help. If your symptoms are severe and disrupting your life ask your doc about treatment.
Q
There’s a burning, dry feeling down both sides of throat. Doc says it could be a virus or infection. I’ve had it four weeks.
A
Could be infection although it’s unusual for it to last such a long time. Also could be a symptom of heartburn with acidity travelling up from stomach through your gullet. If it happens when you exercise it could even be angina.
Q
I think I have a stye in my eye.
A
This is just a little infection in
the eyelid. Normally it lasts a week or two then settles. If the lump doesn’t go away you probably have a cyst that may need surgical removal.
Q
My nails
often split. Lack of vitamins?
A
This is thought to be due to a deficiency in the diet although
there isn’t much evidence to back this up. A lack of calcium is a possibility as the nails need it to grow. Make sure you’re eating enough dairy produce. A beautician could apply something to strengthen the nails.
Q
I’m worried about my daughter (45). When she has to drive more than 30 miles she feels like falling asleep in spite of opening windows, having the radio on or stopping.
A
There’s a rare condition called narcolepsy where the person falls asleep with little warning but I don’t think this is her problem as it would have started at a much younger age and wouldn’t be restricted to driving. It’s normal to feel sleepy on long journeys but if she’s tired in other aspects of her life there may be a medical reason and she should have a check-up.
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.
