Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your questions
DAWN HARPER
CAN I STOP MY STEROIDS?
Q I was diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica a year ago, and have been taking steroids daily. I have been trying to get the dose down but when I get below 10mg, the pain and stiffness in my shoulders flares again. I have put on nearly 2st while on steroids and I’m desperate to get off them. Please help.
A Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition usually affecting the muscles around the shoulders and hips. Steroids are the mainstay of treatment but they do have side effects, including weight gain. Fortunately most people only need treatment for one or two years. Weaning off steroids should be very slow, with the dose reduced by 1mg every four to eight weeks.
Should I still bother with contraception?
Q I got divorced five years ago – I was 42 at the time and my periods stopped overnight and never came back. I have recently met someone online and we are beginning a sexual relationship. I hate condoms and don’t want to take hormones, so we are doing without contraception, but my friend, who used to be a nurse, says I have to keep using it until I’m 50. Is that true?
A Women who have their last natural period before the age of 50 need to use contraception for two years after that period. Women who stop their periods after 50 only need to use it for a year after their last period. So from a contraceptive point of view, you are clear, but you may want to have a sexual health check.
AM I ALLERGIC TO TOMATOES?
Q All my adult life I have suffered with hay fever, which I manage with antihistamine tablets during the grass pollen season. Recently I have developed a weird sensation in my mouth every time I eat tomatoes. I’m
