Health: A Question of Health

Dr Fred Kavalier
Monday 21 September 1998 18:02 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

I AM 25 and diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome. I have had acne for the past 12 years. Who is the best specialist to see - an endocrinologist or a dermatologist?

The acne is due to too much testosterone. Even though the underlying cause of PCOS is unknown, many symptoms can be effectively treated with drugs. You may benefit from extra doses of a drug that blocks the effects of testosterone. Recent research suggests a link between polycystic ovaries and an excess of insulin in the bloodstream. It doesn't matter if you see an endocrinologist or a dermatologist, but do see a specialist. There is an international support group.

u

A blood test for suspected anaemia showed that my red bloods cells are too big. My doctor thinks it may be caused by too much alcohol. I drink two pints a month. What else could it be?

Other causes are shortages of two important vitamins: folic acid and vitamin B12. Occasionally, it can be a problem with the thyroid gland.

u

Six months ago my blood pressure was raised and I was started on a beta- blocker tablet. The blood pressure has returned to normal, but my GP insists I continue the tablets. Is this correct?

Before starting on blood-pressure tablets you must have your pressure checked a number of times, usually over a period of months. If not, it is possible your blood pressure was not truly raised. Some people do manage to stop taking blood pressure tablets, but this is the exception rather than the rule. Discuss it with your doctor.

Please send questions to A Question of Health, `The Independent', 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5DL; fax 0171-293 2182. Unfortunately, Dr Kavalier cannot respond to individual inquiries. Or e-mail to health@independent.co.uk

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in