Category: ask-the-doctor

Does anxiety increase the risk of heart disease?

Are there any tests that can determine what levels of heavy metals are in a person’s body, particularly mercury? If testing showed high levels, what can be done to reduce them?

What reactions can I expect from donating blood or plasma?

I was recently diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. I occasionally get headaches. What is the safest pain medicine for people with cirrhosis?

Can pain be caused by depression and anxiety?

I have swelling just above my groin, in the lower part of my belly. It seems to go away when I lie down, but returns when I stand up? What could it be?

I am a smoker with mild depression. I take a low dose of Zoloft (sertraline) and have been feeling better. I had tried Zyban (bupropion) but had side effects. I really want to quit smoking. Can I take Chantix (varenicline)?

Can heart or kidney issues give the bags under eyes? What else might cause them? How do I get rid of those bags?

I took inflammation pills for bursitis. Now a week later, I’m having a bad reaction to it. What’s the antidote?

Can bipolar disorder cause emotional confusion or numbness?