By the way, doctor: A second bunion operation?
I had bunion surgery five years ago. I thought it would fix the problem. Now the bunion has come back. Should I get bunion surgery again?
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By the way, doctor: How can caffeine help migraines?
If coffee constricts blood vessels, why would it help migraine sufferers, since the constriction curtails blood flow, which would seem to cause more pain?
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By the way, doctor: Are MRI contrast agents harmful?
Do the contrast agents used with MRI scans have side effects? I have had several MRIs and am wondering if there’s reason to be worried.
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Ask the doctor: Are there noninvasive alternatives to a nuclear stress test?
My doctor wants me to have a nuclear stress test to check my arteries for any blockages. What noninvasive test would give as much information as a nuclear stress test? I have had many scans, so I would like to limit my exposure to radiation if possible.
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Ask the doctor: Does narrowing of the aortic valve get better on its own?
Does mild aortic stenosis (causing a mild heart murmur) ever correct itself without medication or surgery?
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By the way, doctor: Why is it unhealthy to have high triglycerides?
I have healthy cholesterol levels, but a high triglyceride level. What are triglycerides, and how dangerous is it to have high levels?
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By the way, doctor: Why did my doctor prescribe steroids?
I have been diagnosed with temporal arteritis and am being treated with prednisone, which the doctor says is a steroid. I know athletes use steroids to bulk up, and I can’t see how that would have anything to do with temporal arteritis. Can you explain?
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By the way, doctor: Isn’t quinoa a supplier of complete proteins?
I read in your June 2010 issue that soybeans are the only plant food that could serve as a person’s sole source of protein because they contain all eight essential amino acids. I thought quinoa does too.
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By the way, doctor: Is there an environmentally friendly way to get omega-3s?
Omega-3 fats may be good for you, but I worry about overfishing. Is there a way of getting omega-3s without contributing to this problem?
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By the way, doctor: Why three blood thinners at once?
I am currently on Coumadin because I had atrial fibrillation after my bypass, Plavix because of my stent, and a baby aspirin. Why do I need to take three blood thinners?
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