What's Up Doc 10-2-09

I sometimes suffer from chest pain when I am really pushing myself during exercise. Is this normal?
No, this is not normal, and chest pain during exercise is something that you should always have evaluated by a physician. Exercise should be done only to the individual's capability and response level. Once cleared by your doctor to exercise, you should set limits for your exercise, and certainly monitor your heart rate for your age and physical status. Perhaps getting some input from an exercise physiologist would be helpful.
John Winterton, MD, cardiologist on medical staff at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital
I just recently had my blood work done. When I received my results, it said I had a high PSA level. What does this mean and should I be concerned?
A PSA test is used to measure a substance found in males called “prostate specific antigen.” It is a screening tool that is used for prostate cancer. In a healthy male, the PSA should be less than 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood. Check with your physician if your PSA was higher than this as it may be an indication of prostate cancer.
Kenneth Verheeck, MD, urologist with the 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
I know that some over-the-counter medicine can aggravate ulcers. Are there any pain relief options that are okay to take?
It’s good that you’re aware of the potential side effects when dealing with medications and ulcers. Many OTC medications can cause problems for people with ulcers. Talk with your doctor about taking acetaminophen; it’s the active ingredient in Tylenol and generally poses a much lower risk of gastrointestinal problems. Also, remember that pain relief isn’t always found in a bottle. For acute injuries, try ice packs; for treating chronic overuse injuries, try a heating pad; and arthritis pain can be relieved with physical activity.
James McNally, MD, family medicine physician on medical staff of Jennings American Legion Hospital