Daily Column

November 29, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am 97-year-old lady and have a pacemaker. I had two or three seizures but have not had anymore since the pacemaker was put in. I am now doing fine except that I have an irritated vagina and inner thighs.

While in the hospital, a nurse spilled urine all down my back and I was not given a bath for two days before leaving. I now have to urinate every two hours during the night and have a very odd dark red, half circle on my both of my inner thighs. It does not itch and fades during the night. What should I do?

DEAR READER:
First, I don’t believe that your symptoms have anything to do with the nurse who spilt the urine or the fact that you were not allowed to bathe afterward. I can say that I am truly appalled by the situation and disappointed in the staff for not immediately helping you wash up. [Read more...]

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Daily Column

August 5, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 47-year-old pre-menopausal woman who has had countless urinary tract infections that have been treated with many types of antibiotics. The UTIs are followed by yeast infections treated with countless over-the-counter and prescription medications.

I’ve even taken my husband to the gynecologist with me and we’ve both been treated with Fluconazole, the generic equivalent of Diflucan.

I take 500 mg of cranberry extract daily that helps prevent UTIs, am on a multiple vitamin, iron, calcium, and Metamucil or Benefiber to prevent constipation. I use an allergy-fighter detergent without perfumes or dyes and wash in hot water, but no matter what I do, the infections continue. Do you have any suggestions?

DEAR READER:
Most urinary tract infections affect the urethra and bladder but may involve any aspect of the urinary system. [Read more...]

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Daily Column

April 1, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 28-year-old female. I have a problem with my lower abdomen. In the area of my uterus, it is very tender (when pushed) and swollen. I look as if I am four months pregnant. It especially hurts if my children run up to me and hit the area (like when they hug me).

I have been to my doctor several times. He has done a few urine tests, all of which are normal. He then recommended I lose weight. I am 5’ 3” and now weigh 135 pounds. My BMI is still within the normal range and I don’t think I am fat. I did the diet thing but did not lose any weight.

I would like to know what is causing the swelling and pain. I am not pregnant and don’t want to look like I am. Please help.

DEAR READER:
I don’t believe your problem is simple overweight. Your BMI is normal meaning you are not overweight for your height. Women tend toward and increase in waist circumference as they age and after having children. Again, though, I do not believe this is your problem.

Pain and swelling of the abdomen is not normal. I believe your problem is coming from your uterus or another part of the female reproductive tract. You need to be examined by a gynecologist. He or she can do a physical evaluation and order tests. You may have ovarian cysts, fibroid tumors or other benign growths. These can generally be removed while leaving the uterus and ovaries in working order. However, in severe cases a hysterectomy may be necessary. The specialist also needs to rule out cancer.

See a gynecologist for an exam, testing and treatment. Let me know how this turns out.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Vaginal Infections and Disorders”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

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