Ask Dr Chris: Osgood-Schlatter's disease, high cholesterol
Every week we partner up with our sister magazine, Woman, to bring you expert health advice from This Morning's Dr Chris Steele MBE, health journalist of the year. This week he answers your questions about a fungal nail infection and a swelling called a ganglion.
The problem: He can't play footie?
My 10-year-old son gets pain and swelling just below his knee, and it's preventing him playing football. Nothing seems to help. Can you advise?
Dr Chris' advice
He may have Osgood-Schlatter's disease, which sounds dramatic but is not uncommon in boys aged 10-14 who take regular strenuous exercise. Fragments of cartilage come loose from where a large tendon attaches to the tibia just below the knee joint. X-rays confirm it, and then rest, painkillers and anti-inflammatories will help. In rare cases, the knee is kept in a splint for 6-8 weeks.
The problem: Statins are sapping their energy
My parents are both on statins for high cholesterol. But recently they've both complained of fatigue and memory loss. What's happening?
Dr Chris' advice
Your parents are probably putting it down to their age, but statins can cause muscle weakness and wasting. To counteract this, they should take Co-enzyme Q10, 100mg, twice daily. Get them to buy the best they can find from Boots or a good health shop. As for their memory loss, they may have to talk to their GP about changing from statins.
- See more questions answered by Dr Chris
You can email Dr Chris Steele at goodtoknow or womanhealth@ipcmedia.com, marking the subject 'Dr Chris'. Sorry, but Dr Chris can't reply to letters personally. For further advice, go to Dr Chris' website at www.thefamilygp.com
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