By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Ask Dr. Gott 5/8
Ease off the meds to prevent kidney disease
Placeholder Image
    DEAR DR. GOTT: I believe I have damaged my kidneys with the excessive use of Excedrin over the last 30 years. My blood urea nitrogen level was flagged on my blood test with a level of 21. I was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome several years ago, and I frequently have to urinate. I didn't realize the use of Excedrin was so bad until recently. I have completely stopped using it but now wonder if the damage is reversible. Is there anything I can do to make my kidneys healthier?
    DEAR READER: A normal blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level is between 8 and 20. Your level of 21, while technically abnormal, is not abnormal enough to be diagnostic of kidney damage. This does not mean you do not have some degree of damage.
    Overuse of any medication can lead to kidney damage because they are all processed within the kidneys before being excreted in the urine. That is why most physicians urge patients to use medication only if needed, especially over-the-counter meds.
    If you are still concerned, I recommend you make an appointment to speak with your primary-care physician, who can explain the results. He or she may choose to order other tests, such as a kidney ultrasound, to determine whether there is any damage and, if so, the severity.
    To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Kidney Disorders."

    DEAR DR. GOTT: I would like to know about these "things" that have started popping up all over my body. They are small and raised. They are very unattractive, and I would like to know how to get rid of them. I've heard that they may be called "tags."
    DEAR READER: Because you are unsure what the lesions are, I urge you to be examined by your physician. He or she should be able to diagnose you or may choose to refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist). It is important to know what type of lesions you have, since treatment varies based on cause. It is also important to document any new skin growths (or changes of any current lesions in terms of size or color) to ensure they are not harmful.
    You most likely have skin tags, but I can't be certain without a visual inspection. Skin tags are common and harmless. They can be removed easily by a dermatologist or general surgeon; however, it can be costly and painful to remove them if you have several or particularly large tags.
    There are some home remedies you can try. Tie dental floss or thread firmly around the base of the tag. This cuts off the blood supply, killing the tissue. The tag should fall off in less than a week. Another option is to apply clear nail polish. Allow the polish to cover the tag for one day and then peel it away. Continue this until the entire tag is removed.
Sign up for the Herald's free e-newsletter