From pediatric questions to general medical queries, our panel of experts is here to answer your questions….
Daily Headaches
Question: I have been getting headaches daily but not sure if it’s related to a sinus problem or sore throat. Is there any way of knowing for sure?
Dr. Chandrakant Patil, ENT Specialist responds: “There is a range of causes for headache. Headaches aren’t the result of a serious illness, but some may result from life-threatening conditions requiring emergency care. A few common causes of headache are chronic daily headache, cluster headache, migraine, tension headache, exercise induced headache, headache due to sinusitis, headache due to ear infection, and so on. Sinusitis can lead to headache, but apart from that it can be associated with other symptoms like nasal discharge, nasal obstruction, fever, and feeling of something coming in the throat from the nose (post nasal drip). As headache has a vast etiology and varied clinical presentation, you need a thorough clinical evaluation with an otolaryngologist, some investigations and if required, an opinion by an internal medicine physician to know its cause and management.”
Is Gargling Necessary?
Question: Is gargling with an antiseptic mouthwash necessary after brushing? Can it be toxic in the long run?
Dr. Amrita Suresh Deshpande, Specialist Periodontics responds: “No, it is not always necessary if a good brushing technique is followed. Although some mouthwashes are safe to use long term, in cases of gingivitis or after a surgical procedure, an antiseptic mouthwash may be prescribed to maintain oral hygiene for a specified period of time after which the product can be discontinued.”
My Face is Losing Volume
Question: I am in my late 40s and noticed my cheeks are sinking in and also my mouth area is sagging. I am otherwise very healthy. A friend suggested fillers. Can you elaborate?
Dr. Abdulmajeed Nasir Makkiya, Specialist Plastic Surgeon responds: “Fillers are a naturally occurring product made up of hyaluronic acid. With water, it occupies 5 percent hyaluronic acid and 95 percent water. As we age, the natural collagen and elastin in the skin lessens. The cells lose their ability to produce more of their youthful component. The skin becomes dryer, thinner, and less
able to fix itself. So the store of hyaluronic acid diminishes as get older. Therefore, fillers are used for static wrinkles and to enhance volume as well as static lines seen even at rest, such as nasolabial folds. The procedure takes around 30 to 45 minutes, including putting anesthetic cream, and patients can expect to notice the effects for as long as 8 to 12 months according to different patients and treatment is completely reversible. Skin fillers can be used primarily for skin rejuvenation and the reduction of lines and wrinkles and also to those who need to add structure and volume to the face. There is no harm or any contraindication using fillers on the face; it is completely safe.”
