Why is my hand numb when I run?
Q: I go running outside quite a lot, but just recently my right hand has started to go numb while I'm out. It's totally fine when I'm not running. What could be the problem? Gemma, 27
A: The first question to ask is: could it be anything to do with your heart or circulation? However, I think this is unlikely as you are obviously fit so your heart should be in good shape. Also, you report no other symptoms such as breathlessness, nausea, sweating or chest pain, so there must be a different explanation.
I think it's more likely to be nerve entrapment, which is when the mechanical action of running creates a jarring between the vertebrae in your neck, which then pinches the nerves that run down your arms into your hand and cause numbness. Or it could be that you have a cervical rib - an extra rib at the top of your rib cage - which can put pressure on the nerves in your arms and cause symptoms like yours. This occurs especially when your arm hangs down and your body is moving - like when you're running.
Your GP can arrange for you to have an X-ray to determine whether or not you have a cervical rib and if that's the case, it can be removed with a simple operation.
Q:Twice a week I come over really dizzy and nauseous and have to sit down with my head between my legs to recover. Nothing in my life's changed to cause this - what's wrong? Maria, 34
A: It sounds like labyrinthitis, a kind of vertigo that also comes with dizziness and nausea. It can be caused by many different things, the most common being a disturbance of the 'balance mechanism' deep inside your inner ear, which is often triggered by a viral infection such as a cold. If you've recently had a cold you may find that once you've recovered, the dizziness will subside.
Alternatively, the symptoms can also be triggered by sudden movements of your head. Try to keep your head still and turn with your body. If that doesn't help, see your GP who can prescribe tablets such as cinnarizine, an antihistamine that's prescribed for vertigo.
EAT TO BEAT COLD SORES
Bananas are rich in lysine, an amino acid that is known for helping build antibodies, which prevent the chances of sores appearing.
Yoghurt is also high in lysine, especially natural live yoghurt.
Garlic contains antiviral properties, so add it to as many meals as possible. Don't like the taste? Buy garlic tablets from all good health food shops - they don't taste or smell of garlic, but still contain the benefits.
Leafy greens such as artichoke, pak choi, broccoli, spinach and cabbage are all packed with iron, which boosts your immune system and keeps you feeling healthy and energised.
ASPIRIN OR A&E?
Symptom: Wheezing
You worry it's: Lung cancer.
Don't panic! Wheezing is commonly associated with people who have asthma, but it can also be triggered by cigarette smoke and general pollutants. It can occur when people exercise with a cold or have a respiratory infection like bronchitis. If you've got an infection, antibiotics can zap it.
Hit the hospital if: You're an asthma sufferer and not responding to your inhaler, or if the wheezing has been going on for a long time and you're experiencing other problems such as chest pain, weight loss or are coughing blood.
Email your health questions to drhilary@fabulousmag.co.uk
COMPILED BY: JO UPCRAFT, SARAH-JANE CORFIELD-SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN IF YOU'RE UNDER 16
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