A The morning-after smell is a result of three factors. First, alcohol is excreted in sweat and breath as well as through the kidneys. The other smell in the breath that contributes to the aroma is due to dehydration. Drink plenty before bed and the next morning. Finally, alcohol affects your metabolism, causing the production of acetone — a fruity smelling chemical formed when the body uses fat instead of sugar for energy.
Drinking sweet drinks such as orange juice and eating a hearty breakfast to restore blood sugar levels helps. And try the strongest mints available.
Q My palms sweat when I am nervous. Is there any way to prevent this?
DD from Winchester
Advertisement
A Sweaty palms are commonly brought on by meeting someone new or being in a stressful situation, and are not usually treated medically. However, counselling might help you to deal with your anxiety, as might deep-breathing exercises when you begin to feel stressed. A strong prescription anti-perspirant could also work.
Severe palm sweating — known as hyperhidrosis — is much rarer and causes sweat to drip down from the hands at any time. This is a hereditary disorder and requires surgical treatment.
If you think you have this, visit www.hyperhidrosisuk.org for more information and support.
Advertisement
Q When I sneeze violently, I often see shiny pin-spots of light. Should I be worried?
WH from Highgate
A No. Severe sneezing can temporarily increase pressure on the retina at the back of the eye, which in turn can trigger images such as pin-spots or flashing lights. Provided this happens only when you sneeze, and you have no other visual problems or associated symptoms such as severe headaches or vomiting, you should be fine.
Should symptoms of flashing lights be accompanied by any loss of vision this must be urgently assessed by a doctor.
All questions are answered by a practising doctor.
To consult Dr Know, e-mail drknow@sunday-times.co.uk. E-mails cannot be replied to individually