DEAR DR. GOTT: Perhaps you would address a problem I have: nasal polyps. They are so severe that the polyps block off my nasal passages completely and have to be removed surgically with a high-speed cutting tool with suction. This has been going on for about six years, and removal must be done as often as every six to 15 months. There doesn't appear to be any cure, just cutting them out when they become too large and block my breathing. I have had allergy testing done and nothing major showed up. I hope you know more about this subject.
DEAR READER: The nasal lining is particularly sensitive to swelling from allergies. This swelling commonly manifests itself as polyps -- benign growths in the nostrils that can interfere with breathing.
I urge you to avoid surgery if possible. Try using a nasal steroid spray (Nasacort and others) that will shrink the swollen tissues and may help you avoid repeated surgical procedures.
To give related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Allergies." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
DEAR DR. GOTT: Would you please explain the meaning of "short-term memory loss"? Is this the beginning of something more serious, such as Alzheimer's? I have noticed that in recent months, my wife has trouble remembering what I told her several minutes before.
DEAR READER: Memory loss can be long-term (inability to recall events over a long period, such as forgetting a childhood injury) or short-term (failure to remember recent events, usually two days or fewer), depending on what is forgotten and when. Because short-term loss can reflect temporary brain malfunction, I urge your wife to be examined by your family doctor to make sure she isn't suffering from a treatable disorder, such as ministrokes or a vitamin deficiency.
DEAR DR. GOTT: I heard a big woman talking the other day. She said a gene is what makes people too fat. Is this true?
DEAR READER: Some forms of morbid obesity are genetic and do not respond easily to diet and exercise. Such patients usually have to consider gastric bypass or other invasive techniques. Being overweight can usually be overcome through prudent dieting and regular exercise. I've reviewed this topic at length in my new "Dr. Gott's No Flour No Sugar Diet." If you would like more information about the diet, including recipes, food lists and meal planners, you can purchase the book at most bookstores or online at www.amazon.com or www.barnesandnoble.com.
Doctor Gott is a retired physician and the author of the new book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet," available at most chain and independent bookstores.
DEAR READER: The nasal lining is particularly sensitive to swelling from allergies. This swelling commonly manifests itself as polyps -- benign growths in the nostrils that can interfere with breathing.
I urge you to avoid surgery if possible. Try using a nasal steroid spray (Nasacort and others) that will shrink the swollen tissues and may help you avoid repeated surgical procedures.
To give related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Allergies." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
DEAR DR. GOTT: Would you please explain the meaning of "short-term memory loss"? Is this the beginning of something more serious, such as Alzheimer's? I have noticed that in recent months, my wife has trouble remembering what I told her several minutes before.
DEAR READER: Memory loss can be long-term (inability to recall events over a long period, such as forgetting a childhood injury) or short-term (failure to remember recent events, usually two days or fewer), depending on what is forgotten and when. Because short-term loss can reflect temporary brain malfunction, I urge your wife to be examined by your family doctor to make sure she isn't suffering from a treatable disorder, such as ministrokes or a vitamin deficiency.
DEAR DR. GOTT: I heard a big woman talking the other day. She said a gene is what makes people too fat. Is this true?
DEAR READER: Some forms of morbid obesity are genetic and do not respond easily to diet and exercise. Such patients usually have to consider gastric bypass or other invasive techniques. Being overweight can usually be overcome through prudent dieting and regular exercise. I've reviewed this topic at length in my new "Dr. Gott's No Flour No Sugar Diet." If you would like more information about the diet, including recipes, food lists and meal planners, you can purchase the book at most bookstores or online at www.amazon.com or www.barnesandnoble.com.
Doctor Gott is a retired physician and the author of the new book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet," available at most chain and independent bookstores.