Category: ask-the-doctor

I sense an odor within my nose; it smells like a dirty ash tray. I use CPAP for sleep apnea. Could this be the cause or could the odor be from a sinus infection?

I am a 46-year-old woman with degenerative disk disease. I have undergone fusion of my vertebrae (spinal fusion). I am allergic to codeine, and cannot take Tylenol #3 or fentanyl. I am using Cesamet instead but need something stronger when the pain is out of hand. What kind of pain reliever can you recommend?

Can a ganglion cyst be caused by repetitive motion?

My left ear feels muffled, like a seashell is covering it. It has been like this for about a year. I hold my nose and blow to “pop” my ears, but the feeling always comes back. What else should I do? Will this ever get better?

My grandchildren have asthma. What is the best way to clean carpets of dust mites: steam cleaners or dry chemicals? How often does cleaning need to be done? How can I be sure residue isn’t left after the cleaning?

Can you take Zocor if you have had hepatitis?

Each time I chew, I get a sharp pain in my left ear. What could cause this and what I can do to alleviate it?

My 5-year-old daughter constantly puts her fingers into her mouth and on her face. She twirls and chews her hair and pulls on her eyelashes. What might cause this behavior and how do I find help?

Which osteoporosis drug is the safest? I have been told to take Evista, but am hesitant because of the risk of stroke.

My mother has dementia. She’s in an Alzheimer’s facility and in a constant state of anxiety and depression. The number of medications she is on is incredible: Cymbalta, Depakote, Haloperidol, Aricept, Seroquel, Buspar, Trazodone, and Risperdal. They do not control her behavior. Is she at risk for dangerous drug interactions? How can I make sure her therapy is appropriately monitored?