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Ask Dr. Gott 10/17
It's good to be a sore loser
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    DEAR DR. GOTT: Since early elementary-school age, I was constantly plagued with canker sores. For years, family doctors and dentists were consulted, and, as they prescribed and suggested, I tried pills and topical ointments and even a modified diet. But nothing gave permanent relief.
    Then, one day, another mother at school shared that her son had finally been relieved of canker sores. Their doctor had determined that he had a reaction, which caused canker sores, to an ingredient in the toothpaste they were using.
    That spurred my interest. After switching to another brand of toothpaste, I have not had a canker sore in five years and counting.
    As none of the doctors/dentists I had consulted had given that diagnosis, it is a suggestion that I'd like to pass on to you and your readers. I know how miserable canker sores can be when they are constant.
    DEAR READER: I had not heard of this reaction before, but I am passing it on to other readers.
    To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Allergies."

    DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 74-year-old gentleman who has experienced the nighttime frequent-urination problem. But I have discovered a pretty good solution. Standing and waiting for the spurts, dribbles and sometimes poor aim is a real pain and the reason we don't completely empty our bladders. So I started sitting down. Then, I can relax and take the time to complete the job. It changed me from about every two hours to once or twice each night. What a relief!
    DEAR READER: Many men with urinary dribbling, poor aim and a tendency to leak have discovered that sitting during urination can solve those problems.
    Although your symptoms may simply reflect an enlarged prostate gland, you need to have a digital rectal exam and a blood test for prostate cancer. Discuss this issue with your primary care physician.

    To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "The Prostate Gland."
    DEAR DR. GOTT: Please give some information about corns. What causes them, and how do you get rid of them?
    DEAR READER: Corns are painful accumulations of dead skin on the feet, usually associated with shoes that are too tight.
    Ordinarily, they can be treated periodically by sanding down with an emery board or fine sandpaper. You may wish to see a podiatrist if the corn is particularly large and/or painful. He or she can then give you more specific advice.
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