Disclaimer: Medicaladvice providedisfor interestonlyandshouldnever be substitutedfor seeing a doctor or seeking medicaladvice. Ifyou have specificmedicalconcernsplease seekadvice from a qualifiedmedicalprofessional.
INSTANT appointment
With Phil Day, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy2U (pharmacy2u.co.uk)
Pins and needles
Q If I sit down for too long, I get really bad pins and needles in my legs. This is especially frustrating when trying to play on the floor with my toddler. Why is this happening, and how can I stop it?
A Pins and needles, also known as paraesthesia, occur when a nerve’s blood supply is momentarily obstructed, often due to prolonged pressure from sitting or sleeping in an uncomfortable position.
This sensation typically subsides once pressure is relieved after afew minutes.
If you’re noticing other symptoms such as numbness, changes in skin colour, trembling, or rapid breathing alongside pins and needles, it could indicate underlying medical issues like nerve damage or nerve entrapment.
Persistent paraesthesia can also stem from poor dietary habits and excessive alcohol consumption.
Additionally, certain medications, including some antibiotics and antiseizure drugs, can heighten the risk of experiencing this discomfort.
Simple measures like incorporating regular stretches or taking breaks during playtime with your toddler can provide short-term relief.
Experimenting with different sitting positions may also help alleviate pressure on the nerves.
But it’s advisable to seek medical attention for athorough evaluation.
Going nose blind
Q I think my sense of smell is fading over time. Is this a normal part of ageing?
Julia, Windsor
A Changes in the sense of smell are often considered anormal part of the ageing process.
According to the National Library of Medicine, over 75% of individuals over the age of 80 experience asignificant decline in their sense of smell, typically beginning around their seventies.
However, if you are still some time away from reaching your seventies, it’s important to explore other factors.
Other common triggers include ailments like colds, flu, allergies, sinus infections, or nasal obstructions.
Changes in smell can also be attributed to medications and, in rare instances, neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or epilepsy.
Loss of smell has also been frequently associated with ‘Long Covid,’ a condition that is still undergoing extensive research to better understand its causes and treatments.
Rinsing the nasal passages with saltwater can be beneficial.
However, if your sense of smell fails to return to normal within afew weeks, it’s advisable to see your GP.
Ignoring persistent symptoms can lead to complications, making timely treatment ess
