Q: Do you conduct any breath tests for determining food intolerances? I suspect gluten, lactose and possibly some other foods don’t agree with me. I’d rather get tested for a quick answer than do an elimination diet. Christopher J., Southgate A: Unfortunately, the only good way to test food intolerance is by an elimination diet (unless there are food allergies, then an allergist can assist in diagnosing them). Breath tests, such as the hydrogen breath test, can be done, but it does not pinpoint the exact intolerance (i.e., lactose … [Read more...] about Elimination best way to test for food intolerance
Ask the Doctor
Pain management begins with family physician
Q: My shingles rash healed six months ago and I am still in a lot of pain. Is this normal? What should I do to end the pain? Frank V., Allen Park A: It is possible, but unlikely to have residual neuropathic pain in the same region as the outbreaks. Visit your family physician for further evaluation. Medications like tricyclic anti-depressants and topical creams are sometimes helpful for managing the pain. Q: I was diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome recently and was told there is no cure. I currently cannot walk on … [Read more...] about Pain management begins with family physician
Over-the-counter treatments for abdominal conditions
By SUDARSHAN SINGAL, M.D. Q: What should I do to resolve my extreme acid reflux? It is very uncomfortable. Rick N., Westland A: You need to do lifestyle modifications. If you are overweight you need to lose weight. Also avoid caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea, colas) and chocolate. Your last meal should be at least three to four hours before you go to bed. To take care of the acid reflux, also take over-the-counter Prilosec or omeprazole (20 mg). If you still continue to have problems then you need to see a gastroenterologist to … [Read more...] about Over-the-counter treatments for abdominal conditions
How celiac disease impacts fertility
Q: My husband and I want a family. Will my celiac disease impact my fertility, ability to have a safe pregnancy and birth. Please advise, thank you. Carrie P., Belleville A: Celiac should not impede your plans as long as it is well-controlled and you follow a strict gluten-free diet. If you are having symptoms, get them completely under control before becoming pregnant. Also, if you are already taking any celiac medications, they are safe to continue taking throughout your pregnancy. However, do not start taking these … [Read more...] about How celiac disease impacts fertility
Spinal cord stimulator surgery
Q: I have experienced a great deal of pain in my spine since I was 23. I am now 26 and my doctor suggested putting an anti-pain stimulator in my spine. I am frightened by that kind of surgery. Does it usually work? Brandon G., Romulus A: I believe your doctor is suggesting a spinal cord stimulator procedure. First and foremost, you need to be seen by a pain specialist to determine if this is the necessary initial treatment for your condition. To make sure a spinal cord stimulator is beneficial for you, a trial phase would be … [Read more...] about Spinal cord stimulator surgery
No correlation between prevention, polyp growth
Q: I recently had a colonoscopy where a pre-cancerous polyp was removed. What extra precautions should I take to prevent more polyps from developing? Kris L., Wyandotte A: At this time, studies have shown no correlation between prevention and polyp growth. However, following a healthy lifestyle is still advised – follow a clean diet and reduce your consumption of red meats. If you have a family history of colon cancer, be vigilant about having screenings done at the proper time. Q: I am having stomach discomfort, nausea and … [Read more...] about No correlation between prevention, polyp growth
Treating unbearable pain
Q: My father-in-law has severe neuropathy. His feet are numb (he does not have diabetes) and his pain is chronically at level 10. He has received evaluations from both a vascular specialist and a neurologist -- they say there is nothing that can be done. Would seeing you provide any hope of relief? Susan S. Dearborn A: Yes. There are other treatment modalities, including MLS laser therapy and the spinal cord stimulator that are beneficial in some patients with treating this condition. Q: I think I have sciatica— it is a … [Read more...] about Treating unbearable pain
Dealing with acid reflux
Q: Recently I have been noticing that after meals, I am having sudden bouts of strong congestion where I need to clear my throat for about a half hour afterward. It is happening quite often, what it could be? Marianne C., Garden City A: It is possible that it could be an acid-reflux or post-nasal drip issue. See your primary care/family physician for an evaluation. Q: What ways can I increase my gut bacteria? I have been reading in the news that it helps people with Type 2 Diabetes. Donald W., Lincoln Park A: Nothing has … [Read more...] about Dealing with acid reflux
Treating pain that develops at work
Q: My migraines are becoming more frequent and interruptive to my productivity at work. What kind of interventions make a difference? Cassie H., Trenton A: Unfortunately there is not a direct answer to your question. A complete history and evaluation is needed first. You would start by finding a neurologist to perform imaging for analysis – someone specializing in headaches would be best. We would also work together to obtain a thorough understanding of your medical history (including your headaches, triggers, medications, … [Read more...] about Treating pain that develops at work
Causes of bloating; colon cancer risks
Q. I often feel bloated. What could be causing it and what can I do for relief? Brandy G., Southgate A. Bloating could be caused by various factors: your diet or specific foods you are eating, swallowing too much air while you are awake or asleep, the presence of the H. pylori bacterium in your stomach, gastritis, constipation and typically less likely, small bowel bacterial overgrowth. If your bloating is acute (lasts only 2 or 3 days), try over-the-counter GasX or the newer one, Phazyme. Avoid foods that make you bloated (like … [Read more...] about Causes of bloating; colon cancer risks