EXTRA: Rxtra | Ask Dr. Bruce

Tuesday February 27, 2001

Ask Dr. Bruce

Q: Do those heart scan and those body scan things accurately tell you what's wrong with the inside of your body?

A: Everybody's excited about these tests. They seem like a newfangled thing to do. They can pick up things that some other tests miss but they may show us things that don't mean anything. So these scans should only be gotten in concert with an exam by your own doctor.

Q: Are diet pills dangerous?

A; They can be very dangerous. Some diet pills can cause problems with your heart, increase your blood pressure, cause other side effects so you shouldn't take a diet pill without talking to your doctor.

Q: Sir, I'm a singer and I was wondering if my smoking habit has any effect on my voice at all?

A: Your smoking habit can have a lot of effect on your singing voice. It can thicken your cords, it can inflame them, it can make you hoarse, it can make it difficult to hit the high or low notes, and it can increase your risk of cancer in the long run. So the best advice I have for you, for your voice and your life, you've got to quit.

Q: How do you know if you need stitches or a tetanus shot?

A: It's hard to know on your own. But if a cut won't stop bleeding, if it's over a joint or if it's really wide you usually need stitches. Now in terms of a tetanus shot it depends on the wound. Now if the wound is dirty you may need a tetanus shot every five years. If it's not dirty you may need it every ten years. Bottom line is if you're not sure go to the emergency room or call your doctor. It's better to be safe than sorry.

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