Article Title: Common Medications and Health Conditions Explained
Q: Could Medication Have Caused My Kidney Problem?
Dr Ellie Replies:
Statins and blood pressure medication are crucial drugs to reduce the risk of heart disease, but they can have other effects as well.
Statins work to reduce cholesterol levels, which can contribute to heart disease and stroke. While they are not known to cause chronic kidney disease, in rare cases they can trigger a condition called rhabdomyolysis, which can damage the kidneys.
On the other hand, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which are commonly prescribed blood pressure medicines, have an effect on the kidneys. These medications relax blood vessels by blocking certain hormones in the kidney, helping to lower blood pressure. However, this can limit kidney function, leading to chronic kidney disease in some cases.
It’s important to note that the benefits of taking these drugs usually outweigh the risks. High blood pressure is one of the most common causes of chronic kidney disease, so not taking ARB drugs is more likely to result in kidney disease than taking them.
Chronic kidney disease is a prevalent condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 80. It is crucial to determine the severity of your kidney disease, so consult with your doctor for further evaluation.
Remember to continue taking your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Q: Are There Alternatives to Slow-Release Morphine?
Dr Ellie Replies:
Unfortunately, the UK is currently facing medication shortages, which impacts chronic pain management. Pain management is a complex field that involves trying out various treatments and options.
While regular opioid medications might not always be the best option for relieving pain, a pain management team or pain clinic can explore holistic and safe options. These may include medications, psychological therapy, exercise treatments, and other non-pharmaceutical approaches. Discuss these alternatives with your GP and consider seeking a referral to a pain specialist.
Q: How Can I Improve Symptoms of Diverticulitis?
Dr Ellie Replies:
Diverticulitis, a bowel condition causing abdominal pain, can be managed effectively with certain lifestyle modifications.
Increasing your fiber intake is vital in combatting this condition, but it’s important to introduce fiber gradually to avoid bloating and discomfort. Adults typically require about 30 grams of fiber per day.
Start incorporating fiber-rich foods such as breakfast cereals, porridge, fruits and vegetables (with skins), rye crackers, oatcakes, nuts, and seeds into your diet.
In addition, ensure adequate fluid intake of 2 to 3 liters per day to aid in bowel movements. Regular exercise and the use of bulk-forming laxatives, which contain fiber, can alleviate constipation or diarrhea experienced by many individuals with diverticulitis.
Consult with your GP who can prescribe anti-cramping medications to manage pain. For further guidance on diverticular disease, the charity Guts UK offers excellent advice and easy ways to increase fiber in meals.
What Can Be Done to Delay the Onset of Gray Hair?
Gray hair has long been deemed an inevitable part of life, yet recent research suggests that certain measures can potentially slow down the graying process.
Tackling stress and protecting your hair from the sun by wearing a hat are simple steps that may delay the appearance of gray hair (temporarily). If you have managed to maintain your hair color to some extent in later life, I would love to hear your secret. Email me at [email protected].
Stay Covered during Travel
After Brexit, concerns arose regarding medical expenses while traveling. However, the former European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has been replaced by the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), offering almost identical benefits within the EU and certain other countries.
You can continue using your EHIC card until it expires, and when the time comes, replace it with the GHIC. Obtain the GHIC easily through the NHS website. Remember that travel insurance is still essential, as the GHIC card does not cover medical repatriation or non-urgent treatments.
Have a burning medical question for Dr Ellie Cannon? Reach out to [email protected]. Please note, Dr Cannon cannot engage in personal correspondence, and her replies should be interpreted in a general context.
