Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your questions
DAWN HARPER
What helps with gout?
Q A couple of weeks ago, I went to see my GP as I’d developed a very painful swollen ankle. After various tests, I have now been diagnosed with gout, which came as a huge surprise to me. I thought gout was caused by drinking too much alcohol and eating lots of red meat, but I’m teetotal and eat very little red meat, so what can I do to reduce my chances of another attack? I’m a little baffled.
A Gout is associated with high levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines. High-purine foods include sugary drinks, high fructose corn syrup, alcohol, red meat, herring, scallops, mussels, tuna, trout, cod and haddock, so try to keep these to a minimum. Plus, if you’re overweight, slowly losing weight will also reduce uric acid levels.
HRT IS CAUSING MY TUMMY TO HURT
Q I’ve started HRT – an oestrogen gel and Utrogestan tablets. The night sweats and hot flushes have all but gone, but I have discomfort in my tummy. I read this could be a side effect of Utrogestan. Don’t I only need oestrogen to stop the flushes – so can I stop the tablets?
A You are correct that it is the oestrogen that is treating the flushes and sweats, but if you still have a womb and take oestrogen alone, there is a slight increased risk of developing womb cancer, so it is important you take a form of progestogen. Abdominal discomfort often settles but, if it persists, speak to your GP, who may suggest reducing the dose or using an alternative progestogen.
IS VAPING DANGEROUS?
Q My husband has been a lifelong smoker. We moved house recently and had to find a new GP. We were both invited for a check-up when we registered, and
