My 70-year-old husband has been recommended for open heart surgery due to aortic valve stenosis, but there is no blockage in the arteries. He has stage 3 kidney disease, is on medication for high blood pressure, and had prostate surgery last December. The report shows mild aortic regurgitation, moderate to severe valvular aortic stenosis, and normal left ventricular systolic function with an ejection fraction of 60-65%. Is the surgery life-threatening, and are there any medications or beta blockers he can try before surgery?

July 17th, 2024

I am experiencing withdrawal symptoms from tapentadol, which I was prescribed after two bowel resections due to Crohn's disease. I am housebound and feeling awful. I have been using tapentadol SR, tapentadol rapid release, and licra, and I inject humera every two weeks for my Crohn's. Have you seen a doctor about this, and is there anything else in your medical history the doctor should know?

January 13th, 2023

Is spinal cord flattening the same as spinal cord compression, and can physical therapy with traction for 10-12 weeks heal a disc protrusion and lessen spinal canal compression to relieve pressure on the spinal cord?

July 14th, 2024

I'm 50 years old and going through menopause. I have constant hot flashes and night sweats that severely disturb my sleep. I'm also feeling depressed and easily agitated, which is unlike my usual easy-going nature. I've gained a lot of weight and am struggling to cope. What can help me manage these symptoms?

September 10th, 2024

I have had acid reflux for a long time and recently experienced worsening symptoms during a stressful period. I also have sleep apnea, a dry cough, sore throat, and post-nasal drip. My cough is worse during the day and goes away at night. I had a chest x-ray, EKG, and bloodwork, all of which were clear. Could this be GERD or sinus issues, and is it common to have a cough during the day but not at night?

January 13th, 2023