My friends and I, all in our 80s, are naturally concerned about memory loss. We’ve noticed that there are supplements on the market claiming to improve memory, but we’re skeptical. Are they worth the money? – Norman Wanstall, via email.
Memory loss and dementia have become increasingly concerning for people, even surpassing the fear of cancer, according to surveys. Many individuals place their trust in supplements, often including the herb ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts contain 40 different flavonoids, which are antioxidants that have shown some potential in increasing blood flow through certain areas of the brain or altering the brain’s energy source. However, despite over 400 clinical studies, these effects have not consistently been proven to prevent or treat changes in memory function.
Therefore, you and your friends are correct in your skepticism. There are no supplements or prescribed drugs that can fully stop mild cognitive impairment or reverse the decline into dementia for individuals experiencing signs of mental deterioration. Instead of relying on supplements, it is recommended to focus on daily exercise, while considering any physical limitations, and maintaining normal blood pressure levels. It is also advisable to avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol intake.
Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind-body connection, such as learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or participating in physical activities like table tennis or ballroom dancing, can be beneficial in preserving memory function and preventing further decline. While these activities may not restore lost memory, they have shown to have positive effects.
I have been experiencing recurring small sores inside my right nostril for the past five years. My doctor has prescribed Naseptin and Bactroban creams, but they haven’t made a difference. I would appreciate your help. – Carole Hague, Kenley, Surrey.
Having a sore spot inside one nostril is a common issue known as nasal vestibulitis. This condition is usually triggered by damage to the delicate lining caused by actions such as blowing the nose too forcefully or picking it, leading to infection. Normally, using potent antibiotic creams like Naseptin and Bactroban should help heal the sores. However, since these creams have not been effective in your case, it suggests that an infection may not be present.
Another possibility to consider is basal cell carcinoma (BCC), which is the most common type of skin cancer in the UK, accounting for 80% of diagnosed cases. Unlike melanoma, BCC does not typically spread to other parts of the body. It usually manifests as ulcerated skin that fails to heal. To confirm a BCC diagnosis, a biopsy under local anesthesia is required. A small piece of the ulcerated area is removed and sent to a lab for analysis.
The good news is that effective treatments are available to eradicate the lesion and promote healing. Options include chemotherapy cream, radiotherapy, or surgical removal under local anesthesia. A dermatologist or ear, nose, and throat consultant will determine the most suitable course of action. I recommend discussing your concerns with your GP and exploring the possibility of a referral for examination and a probable biopsy.
In my opinion… AI could provide hope for stroke patients
The concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential threat to humanity cannot be ignored. However, it’s crucial to consider the positive aspects of this technology that can enhance and even save lives. One such area is stroke, where time plays a vital role in both diagnosis and treatment.
Stroke can be caused by either a ruptured or blocked blood vessel, and determining the correct treatment depends on this distinction. Currently, scans are needed to make this determination, which then requires assessment by medical professionals. Thanks to e-stroke technology, a form of AI, medical teams can now remotely view scan images and coordinate immediate action.
In a pilot study initiated in March 2020 at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, this technology not only reduced the time taken to start treatment by a significant 60 minutes but also resulted in vastly improved patient outcomes. After their stroke, three times as many patients (48% compared to 16%) were able to resume everyday tasks.
In conclusion, AI, like the curate’s egg, has its strengths. The key lies in identifying and utilizing those positive aspects.
Send your letters to Dr. Scurr at Good Health, Daily Mail, 9 Derry Street, London, W8 5HY, or email [email protected]. Please include your contact details. Please note that Dr. Scurr cannot engage in personal correspondence and his replies should be taken in a general context. It is recommended to consult your own GP with any health concerns.
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