The Doc Replies

Shouldn’t his brain tumour be treated?

Q

I have a brain tumour of the pituitary gland and was initially prescribed cabergoline. Since 2006 I haven’t been on any medication. How often should a tumour be checked? I was told mine would never go away completely and I still suffer blinding headaches occasionally.

A

There are different types of brain tumour affecting different parts of the brain. They can be slow or fast-growing, benign or malignant. It sounds like you have a very slow-growing one. It’s difficult to say if this is causing your headaches. Regularity of check-ups and scans also depends on the type of tumour and where it is. If you’re worried ask your doc how often your neurologist or neurosurgeon recommended you be seen.

Q

Is Parkinson’s genetic? My grandmother had it, my mum has slight symptoms and her sister is in a home as she has it very badly. I now have the shakes in my left hand and arm and it’s difficult to walk as I feel like my feet are glued to the floor so I shuffle. It’s worse in a crowded place. My doc says nerves are causing these problems — could it be Parkinson’s?

A Parkinson’s is hereditary in only a small number of cases. It could cause your symptoms, although anxiety also causes shaking. I think it would be worth going back to your doctor and discussing your symptoms and explaining your family history.

Q

 Can low blood sugar and a bad diet cause depression and panic attacks?
A This is rarely caused just by dietary problems. However, poor diet can make these disorders worse. A healthy balanced diet, as well as avoiding smoking and drinking too much alcohol, will improve your general, physical and mental health.
Q

I was diagnosed with costochondritis. Is this common and what causes it?

A Costochondritis is a term used to describe inflammation and pain in the cartilage that join the ribs and the breast bone. It’s quite common and can occur after a viral illness such as a cold. It can also be caused by too much physical exercise of the upper body. It usually goes away by itself. Simple painkillers like paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are usually all you need. 
Q When I close my left hand or lift anything my middle finger locks and I struggle to straighten it. I regularly stretch my hand and put heat rub around the finger, but this doesn’t seem to help.
A

It sounds like you have a trigger finger. This is caused by swelling in the tendon or sheath around the tendon, which causes the tendon to stick and your finger locks. First try resting the finger and if that doesn’t settle it physiotherapists and some docs inject the tendon area with a steroid to reduce the inflammation. If that’s unsuccessful surgery under local anaesthetic can help.
Q

If you drink alcohol regularly does it lower your immune system and leave you more prone to picking up colds? 
A If you drink alcohol excessively it can be bad for your health. If you’re run-down from drinking you may be more likely to pick up a cold. 
 

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