Reverse Snip Has Lain My Man Low

Sep 16 2007 Dr Gareth Smith

What can hubby do to boost his sperm count?

Q MY husband had a vasectomy reversal last year. The consultant says it was a success even though his sperm count is still quite low. Is there anything he can do to improve our chances of conception?

A THERE are several things he can do to improve the quality of his sperm. Avoid smoking or drugs as they affect how well the sperm swim.

He should not have more more than two alcoholic drinks a day and wear boxer shorts to stop his testicles becoming too hot. It is also worth trying herbal supplements such as Gingko Biloba to improve circulation and avoid hot baths.

He should remember to get outside because sunlight increases testosterone production and having regular sex helps - but not more than twice a day.

Q I AM in my seventies and I am so dizzy that I can't even go down my path without feeling like I am going to fall. My GP says it is wear and tear at the top of my spine and there is nothing he can do for me. Please help

A WEAR and tear at the top of the spine would not cause dizziness. You need to have your blood pressure checked and be seen by a specialist.

There are medications that help with dizziness and stop the spinning feeling but you may need a walking aid to make you feel more secure in the meantime. Go back to your GP, tell him your are not happy with his diagnosis and explain how much this condition is affecting your life.

Q FOR two years I have been waking up at night with a very dry, hot mouth. My dentist thinks I may have burning mouth syndrome. Is there any medication that will help?

A BURNING mouth syndrome is more common in postmenopausal women. It is very unpleasant because the gums and tongue feel as if they are burning up.

There is no definite cause but sometimes vitamin deficiencies or hormonal changes during the menopause can trigger it. Stress also makes it worse.

Your doctor needs to rule out diabetes as a cause and often a low dose of anti-depressants such as those used for neuralgia helps reduce the unpleasant sensation.

Q I HAVE a real problem with catarrh, blocked ears and a ringing sound which is worse when the weather is sunny. I am going abroad on holiday soon and fear I will have a miserable time. Can you help?

A YOUR problems sound as if they are connected and may be due to an allergy. If it is worse in the summer the most common cause is hayfever.

This can come on at any age and causes the body to produce histamine, which causes all the symptoms you are describing.

Try decongestant and antihistamine tablets for a couple of weeks. If they don't help, it is worth speaking to your GP.