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Many people think of gout as an archaic and uncommon affliction, but it is becoming more common, mainly among older men who eat a lot of meat and seafood and drink a lot of alcohol, particularly beer.
There are other conditions besides arthritis that can make walking difficult and even painful, such as peripheral artery disease, chronic venous insufficiency, lumbar spinal stenosis, and diabetic neuropathy.
I have a plugged left ear problem. It usually starts about 4 p.m. and lasts about three to four hours. I cough, clear my throat, yawn, close my nostrils and blow — nothing seems to help.
Earwax helps keep the ear canal clean, but if it dries out it can clump together and cause a blockage. A few drops of water held in the ear canal for a minute or so will usually dislodge the wax.
Hair loss is a surprisingly common problem for women, particularly after menopause. This condition is typically treated with a medication such as minoxidil, though other options are available, including hair transplant surgery.
I've had type 2 diabetes for 12 years; I'm now 81. I take metformin plus Januvia. My doctor has never suggested that I monitor myself with a meter. My hemoglobin A1c has been creeping up and is now 7. Should I be getting more aggressive in my treatment?
The immunization schedule for adults has changed, and many people may not be up to date on their vaccinations. Talk with your doctor about what shots you may need.
An immunization committee recommends that adults 60 and over should get the shingles vaccine. It should prevent about half those who receive it from getting shingles, and about two-thirds of those who have already had shingles from getting it again.
Ever since I retired last year, I've enjoyed taking an afternoon nap whenever it's convenient. My wife says napping will turn me into an old man. I can easily give up my naps if she's right — but is she?
A diet heavy in high-fructose corn syrup may cause people to overeat, but the real problem is more likely the high amount of sugar that people consume in their everyday diets overall, rather than one specific kind of sugar.