Category: ask-the-doctor

Sixteen years ago, I had an angioplasty and two stents inserted. Five years ago, I had a heart attack and another angioplasty, with two more stents. Since then I’ve been on Plavix and aspirin. I asked my cardiologist if I could stop taking Plavix because it’s expensive. He said OK because it’s been five years since my last angioplasty. If I could afford it, would Plavix be a drug that I could benefit from for my entire life?

I am recovering from a diverticulitis attack. I am trying to find a listing of foods I should avoid (besides nuts, popcorn, corn, etc). Are there any particular fruits or vegetables I should not eat?

I am having frequent canker sores, many at a time. They are painful and usually last 2 to 3 weeks. I am concerned it may be Behcet's syndrome. Who should I see to find out, a doctor, dentist or other specialist?

I’m 30 weeks pregnant and have a “low-lying placenta.” It continues to move away from my cervix. Is a Caesarean section necessary when dealing with a low-lying placenta? What are my chances of being able to have a vaginal delivery?

What are some possible causes of pain and discharge in the bellybutton?

My 60-year-old brother recently died of a massive heart attack. He seemed healthy. He was not overweight, he exercised daily and ate well, he took his cholesterol medication and he saw his doctor regularly. Others in my family have died of sudden heart attacks. Is there any genetic test that I (and my siblings) should undergo to see if we are at risk for sudden heart attack?

What is a dystonic reaction to a drug?

Aluminum is an ingredient in deodorants, baking sodas, coffee creamers, and other products. Are there health risks associated with absorbing and consuming aluminum? Also, I’ve heard that putting foods into aluminum pans can increase health risks. Is this true?

I have a friend, aged 15, who I have to remind to eat because she never feels hungry. I wonder if this could be caused by a hormone imbalance. I tell her to see a doctor. Should I be concerned or is this natural?

I take high blood pressure medication. I have a cold that is settling into my chest. Can I use over-the-counter medications for mucus relief?