What's Up Doc? 8/20/09

I often feel rushed at my doctor’s office. I trust that he’s a qualified doctor, and I don’t want to change doctors. Is there a way I can get more out of the visits and not leave feeling confused?

In a word: yes. Medical information is complex, just like engineering, accounting or carpentry, but the difference is, we participate in the solution. Choices we make every day with nutrition, medications and exercise affect our health. Clear communication is vital for a good doctor-patient relationship. I suggest writing down your questions or concerns before your visit and bring a notebook with you. Take notes about the instructions and repeat them back to the doctor to make sure you understood correctly. Ask questions about medications such as when you should see an improvement, what you can do to prevent the condition, and so on. Patients who don’t understand their doctor’s orders are at greater risk for infections, medication errors and repeated hospitalizations.
Todd Peavy, MD, family medicine physician, Lake Charles Medical and Surgical Clinic

I have an ulcer and I’ve heard that aspirin and even Advil can cause problems for people with ulcers. Is that true?

Many commonplace drugs, such as aspirin, Advil and Aleve can cause serious problems by irritating the stomach lining and aggravating ulcers. Studies show that people who take these drugs are about three times more likely to have gastrointestinal bleeding. If you’ve been diagnosed with an ulcer, talk with your doctor about what over-the-counter medications are safe to take.
James McNally, MD, family medicine physician, medical staff of Jennings American Legion Hospital

My 8-year-old daughter has a bed-wetting problem and never wants to go to sleepovers or have anyone over because she is embarrassed. Is there anything I can do to get rid of this problem?

There are a number of behavioral modification tricks such as limiting fluids past 6pm and setting up a bathroom break alarm. If these tricks do not work, check with your physician. Some doctors may prescribe nasal spray, which can help block urine production during the night.
Kenneth Verheeck, MD, urologist, Urology Center of Southwest Louisiana

My mother is in her early 70s, small framed and just seems frail. How much bone strength, on average, do women lose each year?

In the first five to ten years after menopause, 25 to 35 percent of bone density can be lost. It varies from woman to woman, as each individual’s risks determine the likelihood for osteoporosis. It sounds like your mother’s risk for osteoporosis is high, given the small frame and frailness that you reported. Her doctor can best determine her bone strength and may order a bone density scan to know for sure. It’s recommended for women 65 years of age and older. I’d suggest talking with him or her about having the scan and see what can be done to boost her bone health.
Scott Bergstedt, MD, ob/gyn specialist with OBG-1