Q. I recently had a chest x-ray because of a persistent cough, which showed a small amount of calcium on the right lung. My GP says there is nothing for me to worry about but that I'm to have another taken in three months' time. I am concerned, though, especially as I worked with asbestos when I was younger.
EL, Warrington, Cheshire
A. Anybody with chest symptoms and a history of asbestos exposure should be seen by a specialist sooner rather than later. Chest x-rays are the most common method of detecting asbestos-related disorders since they may show up small opaque areas on the lungs known as pleural plaques. These often contain calcium, making them visible on an x-ray. If a second x-ray, taken from a different angle, confirms these, a chest specialist may want to arrange more detailed imaging, such as a CT scan of the chest, since this can give a clearer indication of asbestos-related problems in the early stages. A biopsy of the area may also be required, so discuss this with your doctor again right away.
Q. I have had hiccups for two weeks. My doctor prescribed lansoprazole and chlorpromazine but to no avail. The hiccups grow stronger at night and are making me sick. I hope you can help.
PG, Londonderry, Northern Ireland
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A. Hiccups are sudden reflex contractions of the diaphragm and typically stop within 24 hours. If a bout lasts 48 hours, it is deemed persistent; after a month, intractable.
There are many possible causes, including stress, stomach acidity, infection and alcohol. My concern is that your persistent hiccups may indicate a more serious (and usually treatable) underlying condition. The two medications given will act as an antacid and relax the diaphragm. Others, such as metoclopramide, principally prescribed for nausea, may also help (see tinyurl.com/lf2vsq). At this point, your doctor should refer you for specialist assessment.
Q. Over the past two years my weight has fallen from 14 stone to 12 stone (I am 5ft 11in) despite no changes in diet. My GP took blood tests, which revealed nothing. I am in my late seventies. Is this normal? My wife is worried.
DC, Norwich
A. Weight loss in older people is not unusual and can simply be the result of a general reduction in appetite. Elderly people with unintentional weight loss are at a higher risk of depression and infections, though, so you should monitor this closely. I suggest you see your doctor in a few weeks' time for a review. At present, you are within the healthy weight range.
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