A few months ago, I started experiencing excessive salivation, which has become quite bothersome as I constantly have to wipe my mouth. My doctor has found no apparent cause for this issue. Can you provide any assistance? I’m a 70-year-old individual.
While it is not very common for individuals to have an excess of saliva, for those who do, it can be incredibly embarrassing. Additionally, the liquid around the mouth can cause irritation to the skin and lips, leading to dermatitis and even infection. There are generally two possible explanations for this issue: either the mouth is producing an excessive amount of saliva, or there may be difficulty with swallowing.
Various underlying problems could be contributing to this condition. Certain medications, such as the chronic pain drug buprenorphine or psychiatric pills like risperidone and venlafaxine, have been known to cause overproduction of saliva. Additionally, any issues within the mouth, such as tongue or mouth pain, dental problems like cavities, or acid reflux from the stomach, can result in difficulty swallowing and excess saliva. Other diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and motor neurone disease, can also lead to an accumulation of saliva. If the problem persists, it is worth seeking further investigations.
Start by consulting your dentist to rule out any dental or gum-related problems. A general practitioner can then arrange for an assessment of swallowing with a speech and language therapist, who can evaluate the effects of any medications you may be taking. Treatment options are available for this issue, even when the exact cause is uncertain. A GP can prescribe medications, such as patches or tablets, to address the problem. It may also be beneficial to consider medication for acid reflux.
I’m a 74-year-old individual who has been dealing with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) since my 20s. My main symptom is flatulence, which is highly embarrassing and makes me anxious about going out. I’ve tried numerous remedies, but nothing seems to work. What should I do?
Flatulence, or frequent gas production, is often associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In addition to abdominal pain, bloating, and abnormal bowel movements, individuals with IBS may also experience other symptoms. If you have any concerns, you can write to Dr. Ellie for advice at [email protected]. Please keep in mind that Dr. Cannon cannot engage in personal correspondence and her responses should be interpreted within a general context.
Issues with wind and bloating are commonly caused by the consumption of certain foods that ferment and interact with the friendly bacteria in the gut, leading to the production of gas. It is crucial to understand the difference between two types of dietary fiber: insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber tends to exacerbate the problem as it passes through the gut undigested. Examples of foods containing insoluble fiber include whole wheat bread, pasta, brown rice, and bran. On the other hand, soluble fiber, found in foods like potatoes without skins and oats, can help reduce flatulence.
While fruits are generally considered healthy, the sugars in some fruits can trigger IBS symptoms in certain individuals. It may be wise to limit fruit intake to three servings per day and choose lower-sugar options such as bananas and raspberries. Some vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and onions, can also induce symptoms. IBS specialists may also recommend avoiding artificial sweeteners and fizzy drinks that worsen gas. Additionally, some doctors suggest trying probiotics to alleviate symptoms. Supermarket probiotic yogurts or milk drinks can be consumed daily for a month to evaluate their effectiveness.
I have developed a large boil on my chin that doesn’t seem to be shrinking. It has also become more painful over time. Initially, I thought it was a bug bite, but then it developed a head like a typical pimple. What could this be?
If a skin problem resembles a boil, it is highly likely that it is indeed a boil. Boils are skin infections characterized by the accumulation of fluid, resulting in a hard, red, and painful lump. It may be possible to encourage the infection to drain by applying a hot cloth or warm compress to the area for ten minutes, three times a day. This can aid in the bursting and draining of the liquid. However, it is essential to avoid attempting to burst it manually, as this can exacerbate the infection and lead to scarring. If the boil feels hot and is surrounded by redness that appears to be spreading, it may indicate the need for antibiotics. It is advisable to consult a GP in such cases. Boils often occur in individuals who shave or those with underlying health conditions like diabetes. Alternatively, this skin issue could be the result of an insect bite. Occasionally, a dermatofibroma, a lump on the skin, may develop following an insect bite or minor injury. This firm, pink or brown bump typically does not disappear on its own and is harmless unless a doctor has confirmed otherwise. Many medical practices now allow for remote assessment of skin problems, so consider contacting your local surgery online for further information. Make sure to submit high-quality photos, capturing close-ups and wide angles to provide a comprehensive view. In some cases, medical professionals may even send the photos to a dermatologist for a specialist opinion.
Did your hair grow back after undergoing chemotherapy? One of my readers, a former cancer patient, reached out expressing concern that her hair still hasn’t regrown one year after completing chemotherapy. While it is widely known that certain types of chemo can cause hair loss, doctors often assure patients that hair will typically grow back. The reader feels devastated and believes she was misled. She has also heard of other women who experienced the shock of remaining virtually bald years later. The reader specifically mentioned the chemotherapy drug docetaxel. I am interested to hear if any other individuals have encountered similar hair loss issues, either with this drug or other types of chemotherapy. Additionally, it would be valuable to know what patients were told about the possibility of permanent hair loss, or if they were surprised when it became a reality. It’s important to remember that all drugs have side effects, and while they often represent a small price to pay for life-saving treatment, patients need to be fully informed about what to expect. If you have any experiences related to this topic, please contact me via email below.
Please don’t overly concern yourself with reports linking artificial sweeteners to cancer. Aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in many carbonated beverages, including Diet Coke, has been classified by the World Health Organization as a possible cancer risk. However, this does not mean that drinking Diet Coke will cause cancer. The potential link between aspartame and cancer has primarily been observed in studies conducted on animals, often involving much higher quantities than what humans consume. It may be helpful to keep in mind that there are numerous other items on the same list, including aloe vera plants, pickled vegetables, and certain antifungal drugs. These items have been deemed to pose less risk than some rather unusual factors, such as working as a hairdresser. As with most things in life, moderation is essential.
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