I fell off a building three years ago and was on pain medication for two and a half years. I can't handle the pain again. What should I do since my doctor won't give me a pain management referral?

March 27th, 2023

I have been experiencing pain in my lower throat for over a year, accompanied by tiredness, low appetite, and a 6-pound weight loss. This week, my right lymph node below my ear has been swollen and painful. What could be causing these symptoms, and what can I do until I can have an endoscopy in three months?

October 12th, 2024

After taking 20-30 mg of Vicodin daily for nearly 6 years for aching knee, I have quit taking it for a little over three weeks. Is it possible to still have any kind of withdrawal symptoms, and could that amount of Vicodin have much effect on the liver?

January 19th, 2023

Does my wife need thyroid tests before starting green coffee extract for weight loss, or can she start taking it before the tests?

April 1st, 2023

I am being evaluated for bariatric surgery and recently discovered high blood pressure (150/110) at my first surgeon appointment. My home blood pressure readings over several days have shown systolic readings between 143-160 and diastolic readings between 93-103. I have been advised to cut salt from my diet and see my primary care physician (PCP) soon. I have three questions: a) Is it advisable to start taking flush-free niacin for blood pressure? b) How concerning are these blood pressure numbers? c) Can I safely take naproxen, given its sodium content, for my increasing headaches?

December 15th, 2023