Category: ask-the-doctor

Should children ages 6 to 15 be allowed to drink “energy drinks” such as Red Bull?

My son is a healthy 9-year-old. He has gained at least 25 pounds in two months. I asked his doctor about this and she doesn’t seem to be too concerned about it. He weighs 93 pounds and his height is 4’8. Could there be a medical issue that I am overlooking?

How should I handle my teen cutting herself? She does not know I know about it.

I have been diagnosed with sarcoidosis, but my doctor wants to be certain and has recommended a lung biopsy. How dangerous is this test? Also, what is the least invasive test?

My son was diagnosed with strep throat last night and he still has a large egg size lymph node on the left side of his neck. Is that a normal symptom? How long should it take to go away?

What is hyperparathyroidism?

What type of doctor would be best to treat thoracic outlet syndrome?

I have low vitamin B12 and Vitamin D levels. Is there any condition that would cause low levels of both with a normal diet?

I am 77. My brother died of prostate cancer. My doctor says I don’t need PSA testing at my age. But because my brother died of the disease, my doctor will order the blood test if I want it. I’m not sure what to do. What is your advice?

I have a triglyceride level of 300 mg/dL. I know a common recommendation is to eat healthier and to add fruit to my diet. Do sugars from fruit have any impact on the triglyceride level?