Q: I've always suffered from migraines, but recently they've occurred much more frequently. I've had four in the last two weeks, and been forced to take time off work to sit in my bedroom in the dark all day. Why do you think they're getting worse? I'm worried it could be a tumour. Pauline, 37

A: It's highly unlikely you have a tumour. If you were over 40 and getting severe migraine-type headaches for the first time, a tumour should be considered as an outside possibility, but occasional bouts of more frequent migraines in people who regularly suffer them are not uncommon.

There may be a trigger for these recent episodes - such as stress, dehydration, sleep disturbance or even a change in your diet. Keep a diary of when the migraines occur to see if there is any pattern or connection with anything in your life or environment. Stock up with migraine medication such as Migraleve and take it at the first hint of symptoms. Also, ask your GP about a preventative treatment to reduce the frequency and/or severity of your headaches. Drugs such as pizotifen, propranolol or amitriptyline are effective.

Q: Whenever I eat I get terrible heartburn and it feels like the food sits on my chest for hours. I've tried antacids from the chemist but nothing works. What can I do? Anne-Marie, 30

A: Acid reflux, when stomach acid leaks into your gullet, is very unpleasant. As you are under 45 - which makes anything sinister like stomach cancer unlikely - and provided you have no additional symptoms such as anaemia, weight loss or vomiting blood, you could take omeprazole on prescription, which works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach. I suggest you also try a test for the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which is often to blame for indigestion. It can be treated with antibiotics.

FACT VS FICTION
Energy drinks can kill you: FICTION
High-energy drinks that contain levels of caffeine similar to those in strong coffee are not in themselves dangerous. However, mixing caffeine with large amounts of alcohol and vigorous exercise when dehydrated could cause problems for someone with a heart condition or rhythm abnormality. Personally, the occasional energy slurp perks me up on early mornings and it hasn't done me any harm.

HEALTH HERO: PINEAPPLE
It may have a prickly exterior but this fruit is filled with goodness, in more ways than one. As well as being absolutely delicious, it's the perfect remedy for muscle strains and bruising because it contains the enzyme bromelain, which is a natural anti-inflammatory that encourages the skin to heal. So, the next time you're bruised like a peach, grapple with a pineapple.

COMPILED BY: JO UPCRAFT, BETH GIBBONS PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY, PHOTOLIBRARY.COM

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