Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your questions
DAWN HARPER
HELP! SHE CAN’T HEAR WHAT WE’RE SAYING
Q My mother has come to live with us. She’s worn hearing aids for years, but now they don’t seem to be working well, so I asked our GP to refer her to the hearing aid clinic. They’ve said they want to see her first, which is very inconvenient, as either my husband or I will have to take time off work. Can I insist on a referral?
A common reason for hearing aids becoming less efficient is wax in the ear canal, which is why the GP wants to see your mum first. Most surgeries offer appointments outside of normal working hours, so speak to the receptionist about booking either an early morning or late evening appointment.
DO I REALLY NEED BONE MEDS?
A few weeks ago, I slipped and broke my wrist. The hospital arranged for me to have a bone density scan because they felt the fall shouldn’t have resulted in a broken bone. They tell me I have thin bones, which has come as a shock as I’m a healthy weight, walk every day and have plenty of calcium in my diet. My doctor wants me to take medication, but I’m not keen because I have no symptoms.
A Osteoporosis (thin bones) is often referred to as a silent disease, as there are no symptoms until a minor injury results in a fracture. Despite a healthy lifestyle, you’ve developed the condition. If you smoke or drink alcohol regularly you should also address this. I would also recommend taking prescription medicine to build up your bones.
Afraid to ask?
CODEINE CONFUSION
Q Following an operation on my leg, I was prescribed codeine. At the time I was taking it four times a day. I’m now completely recovered, so I don’t need it for the pain, but I have found that it helps me to sleep. Is it OK to take it just once at night
