Whole Tooth About Orange Juice

Jun 15 2008 Dr Gareth Smith

Q MY four-year-old loves fresh orange but his front teeth are becoming discoloured. Could this be the juice?

A YES. The acid in fresh fruit juice can erode teeth enamel and the effects are worse if kids use a cup with a spout as it is directed at the front teeth. Baby teeth are more at risk but the effects can also harm second teeth.

Take him to the dentist for a check up.

Q I'VE been feeling dizzy and nauseous. My GP said it is labyrinthitis. What causes this?

A LABYRINTHITIS is a nasty condition caused by a viral infection.

The inner ear has three chambers called the labyrinth with hair cells covered in fluid. They send signals to the brain telling it which way the body is moving and what position you head is in.

In your case a virus has disturbed the cells, making you feel like you are moving when you are not.

It can take a few weeks to clear up. You should take anti-sickness pills and probably not drive until then.

Q I HAVE had two burst ulcers and still suffer from a lot of stomach pain. I am a smoker. Can this make it worse?

A YES. Smoking increases the acidity of the stomach and thins the protective coating.

If you have had a ruptured ulcer, which can be fatal, stop smoking immediately as nicotine counteracts medication.

Q I GET terribly swollen ankles due to high blood pressure. I can't take water tablets. Help.

A SWOLLEN ankles are caused by gravity pulling fluid out of the blood vessels.

Get fitted for TED stockings by your GP practice nurse. Worn from ankle to thigh, they reduce fluid build-up and improve circulation. Also, sleep with the end of the bed raised and sit with your feet up and legs uncrossed.

Q I HAVE dodgy bowels. I start college soon but am too embarrassed to use public loos. What can I do?

A A CHRONIC upset stomach can be caused by inflammatory problems, food intolerances and irritable bowel.

Ask your GP to arrange tests. In the meantime, cut down on dairy products and buy Buscopan from the chemist to reduce bowel spasms.