What are the symptoms that suggest irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Hello doctor,
For how long is it normal to be constipated? Is it dangerous to experience constipation for two and a half months? I have been using Metamucil gummies two to three times per week to promote bulky stools; is it okay to continue taking Metamucil for over two months? Although I strain without seeing blood, I can go to the bathroom and have bowel movements every five to seven days. I also experience acid reflux and often have a lot of gas. Could this be indicative of IBS or something else? What foods can I consume at night and in the morning to promote bulky stools, besides breakfast cereal? What can I take for gas relief?
My mom recently arrived three days back and even took a bus. She is staying in a hotel, and I have not seen her yet. I am concerned that she might have COVID-19 since she traveled from another country. She has not taken the coronavirus tests yet, and I am anxious to see the results. I am hesitant to put her in a car and take her for testing, as it poses a risk to my health and that of my husband. I suggested she take two antigen or PCR tests, but she has not done so yet and wants to meet me in her hotel to give me a bag of stuff. I am not comfortable eating in restaurants or riding in her car, nor do I want to put her in my car. She will not come inside the house, and that is her decision. I do not want to go to her hotel room. What precautions can I take if I meet her in the hotel to avoid contracting COVID-19, aside from wearing a mask? She is 76 and mentioned on the phone before the trip that she has not had COVID-19.
Kindly help.
21 May 2024 - 1 min read
Can there be a possibility of COPD despite normal lung test values?
Hi doctor,
I received the results of my lung test and almost everything is fine. However, I was told that there is a possibility of a mild obstructive defect. I am scared and suspect that it could be chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). I have never smoked. The forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV)1, FEV1/FVC, total lung capacity (TLC), and residual volume (RV) are normal, and I have shared the values. There is no significant bronchodilator response. Kindly give an opinion.
20 May 2024 - 1 min read
What are the methods for treating pimples on the penis?
Hello doctor,
I have some pimple-like symptoms in my pubic region. I noticed it over three weeks ago. Assuming it is just heat rashes, I have applied some soothing cream on it, but they are not fading. Kindly help.
Thank you.
20 May 2024 - 1 min read
How to treat stomach problems and digestive issues?
Hello doctor,
I have a lot of problems with my stomach like abdominal bloating, belching, stomach fullness all the time, and occasional GERD which causes a lot of pain. I have been on depression medications for a long time. Many of the medicines do not suit me and make the problem of GERD very bad. Recently I came across a problem named SIBO. Could it be the same with me? Are there good treatments available? What in general is the treatment?
Kindly help.
19 May 2024 - 1 min read
My chest hurts on smoking. Is this indicate lung cancer?
Hello doctor,
I am a 28-years-old male with 250 lb. I have little pain in the chest when taking a deep breath, especially in the morning. I do not have a cough at all when I try to cough hard sometimes there is little tiny blood in my saliva, and my mouth tastes bloody. I keep smoking these two weeks a lot which I can see when I smoke a lot my chest hurts, but this blood thing is scaring me that I may have lung cancer. What should I do?
12 May 2024 - 1 min read