Her eye doctor saw “floaters” in her eye and sent her to a specialist because he thought she had a detached retina. After testing, it was discovered her “floaters” were flecks of blood.

She read in one of your previous columns that rutin could help with bruising. Since starting it, her eyes have improved, but bruises still appear on her body. Her physician does not take her seriously. Do you have idea or suggestions about what could be going on?

DEAR READER: Your mother needs to undergo thorough testing and examination. Is she on any over-the-counter medications, supplements or herbals other than the rutin? Does she have any other health concerns or conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes?

If her doctor is unwilling to look into this, it is time to find a new one. You might begin with a referral to a hematologist (blood specialist), who can test her for possible underlying causes, such as a clotting disorder.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Blood — Donations and Disorders.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order made payable to Newsletter and sent to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.

By the way, I take flecainide 50 milligrams twice a day, Tegretol XR 900 milligrams once a day (to prevent seizures due to a blow to my head last fall) and Premarin 0.625 milligrams. Can you please give me some help and hope?

DEAR READER: To begin with, your doctor is correct that your skin is thinner. This occurs because a portion of the protective fatty layer of skin that helps cushion blood vessels against injury is lost as we age. There is also the possibility that excess sun exposure over the years has broken down the collagen and elastin fibers in the deep layers of your skin. One more possibility is a side effect of medication you may be on, including the 81 milligrams daily aspirin that acts as an anticoagulant. I should indicate it is common for aspirin, even the 81-milligram strength, to be prescribed to people with abnormal cardiac conditions.

The Tegretol XR you are taking has uncommon side effects of severe allergic reactions, including unusual bruising or bleeding. I am not saying this is the cause of your bruising, but adding this to your aspirin regimen might be the cause. Speak with your physician or cardiologist for his or her interpretation.

Take extra precautions to avoid direct stress to your skin. Your physician(s) will likely continue you on your current medications because of your medical history. As such, you may find yourself wearing long-sleeved shirts when out in public.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Consumer Tips on Medicine.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.