Q: I only go to the toilet for a number two every three or four days, and often feel uncomfortable and bloated. I'm worried it might be doing me harm. Should I go every day? Terri, 27
A: For some people, a bowel movement occurs every few days, for others, it's once or twice a day. Both are normal, but there's no doubt that the faster the bowel transit time (the speed at which your food passes through you), the healthier it is for your bowel - and the less likely you are to develop problems such as diverticulitis (inflammation of the colon) and bowel cancer.
If constipation is making you feel uncomfortable, it needs to be remedied. Start by increasing the amount of fibre you eat, in the form of fresh fruit and vegetables and wholegrain cereals. Drink more water to bulk up and soften the fibre in your diet, and take more exercise to help get things moving. You could also try syrup of figs and prunes, or a liquid fibre preparation such as Fybogel, increasing the dose slowly. If you're still suffering, stimulant laxatives such as lactulose or bisacodyl, available from chemists, are effective and safe when taken occasionally.
Q: I've just been promoted to a high-pressure job and I'm finding the stress difficult to handle. I've lost my confidence, have started to stutter and I often feel a tight pain in my chest. Should I start taking tranquillizers to stop me feeling so anxious? Lauren, 30
A: Ultimately, you need to avoid stress because it has widespread physical side effects - raised blood pressure, stomach ulcers, skin disorders, palpitations, nausea, IBS, tremors and insomnia. But pressure itself is not the enemy - it's how you react to it that counts. So try not to over-exaggerate the importance of every decision, stay confident and learn to recognise the symptoms of stress. Try simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga and t'ai chi. Exercise can combat those nasty stress hormones, but avoid taking tranquillizers, as they can be addictive.
STOP THE POP! DON'T TAKE PILLS, DO THIS...
Problem: Long-term backache The pain and stiffness of backache subside quickly, which is why doctors prescribe rest and anti-inflammatory painkillers. However, the drugs can have side effects and resting can cause the back muscles to weaken. Instead, I'd recommend soaking in a hot tub. It can work wonders as the hot water increases circulation. Acupuncture is another alternative, and is safe and effective in experienced hands. Ultra-fine needles are inserted into points on the body, the theory being that this stimulates energy flow around the areas where there are blockages. Ask your GP to recommend a reputable practitioner.
ASPIRIN OR A&E?
SYMPTOM: YOU'RE TIRED ALL THE TIME
You worry it's: ME
Don't
panic! ME (myalgic encephalopathy) is a debilitating condition which leaves
sufferers feeling severely fatigued. One in 10 GP consultations concern lack
of energy, but most cases are related to lifestyle, lack of vitamins or
minerals, or slight depression.
Hit the hospital: No need, but if
your fatigue is seriously affecting your life, discuss it with your GP.
Email your health questions to drhilary@fabulousmag.co.uk
COMPILED BY: JO UPCRAFT PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN IF YOU'RE UNDER 16
This article has 0 comments