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Professor Kerryn
Phelps, write to:
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Auckland 1141 or
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subject Q&A.
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personally.Ask the doctor
Professor Kerryn Phelps answers your questions on polycystic ovaries,
breast cancer testing, dandruff and other concerns.Q
My 29-year-old daughter has recently
been told she has polycystic ovaries, but
not PCOS. How common are polycystic
ovaries and will it affect her chances of
conceiving a child? M.M.
It is common to have polycystic ovaries without
having PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome),
which can involve insulin resistance and
weight gain, irregular periods, acne, excess
hair, depression and anxiety. Unlike PCOS,
polycystic ovaries without the associated
syndrome have no impact on fertility.Q
My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer
last year, at the age of 59. My grandmother
also had it. How do I go about genetic testing
to ensure I don’t have the gene? I would prefer to get
preventative surgery if I carry it. P. E.
You are wise to check your risk. You and your
mother can be referred for genetic counselling by
your GP. If she carries the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
mutation, then you would be tested. Your risk would
then be assessed and you will be given options
for prevention.Q
I have lost 5kg recently, but really struggle
with sugar cravings at night before bed.
I am trying to lose more weight, but
my 9pm snacks are letting me down. Do you have
any advice? K.H.
Evening sugar cravings are usually due to being
either still hungry or just a bad old habit. If you’re
genuinely hungry, it may mean
your kilojoules and
carbohydrates are too
light through the
day, which is
common with
dieting. Havea proper breakfast with quality carbohydrates
and protein, a balanced lunch and a substantial
afternoon tea. If you think it’s just an old habit,
then try having a cup of tea, have a bath, or read
a book to distract yourself. It will get easier!Q
I am 56 and healthy. I have great hair, but
recently I have developed quite severe
dandruff. What are the causes and do you
have any advice on how to stop it? F. G.
Have you changed shampoos? You may be
sensitive to it. Skin conditions such as eczema,
seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis or fungal infections
can all cause dandruff. Try using a shampoo for
sensitive scalps. If it persists, ask your doctor to check
for a skin problem and prescribe a treatment.Q
I am four months pregnant and have been
reading a lot about the risk of whooping
cough, particularly with babies. When
should I get my booster and should everyone
who comes near my baby once it’s born have the
vaccine, too? L .O.
We recommend vaccination in the third trimester
of pregnancy, as antibodies travel from the mother
to the foetus and protect the baby in the first weeks
of life. Anyone who will be spending time with
your baby should have pertussis (whooping
cough) vaccine.Q
I’m 45 and was diagnosed with sciatica
last year. What types of treatments are
available? G.G.
Because your pain has persisted, your GP is likely to
arrange an MRI scan to find out the cause. Treatment
options include physical therapies and cortisone
injections to reduce swelling. Sciatica caused by a
prolapsed disc may need surgery to remove the disc
fragment causing pressure on the nerve.Aversion to dairy foods
My five-year-old son doesn’t like dairy. I am worried about his lack of calcium
and that it will affect his bones and growth. Should I opt for a supplement? T. S.
You will need to provide alternative sources of calcium and protein. Soybeans, tofu,
tempeh, sesame products, canned salmon with bones, and green vegetables are some
options. I suggest you see a dietitian who has experience with children.[ Medical Q&A ]
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL SUESSE AND GETTY IMAGES.Calcium rich