I am 77 years old and I’ve undergone procedures for prostate and hernia. Due to gastric trouble, I had to undergo endoscopic surgery thrice with benign polyps. Both my knees are swollen and I’m moving with the help of a stick and walker. I have been given two injections for pain in both knees and I’m also taking pain killers. I do get some relief and there is no cracking sound. I’m currently suffering from gastric acidity and pain in the upper abdomen. I’m drinking plenty of water. Please suggest simple medicines to bring relief from the above symptoms. – Raghu Sutram
With your medical history, the safest medication is up to 2 gm of Paracetamol per day. This will help in reduction of pain. Even at your age, you can get a knee replacement done for permanent relief from pain and to avoid tablets, which will reduce acidity. But if you’re not keen on surgery, you may try ice-cold compress and exercises to strengthen your knee joint. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs could be responsible for your gastric symptoms. Again, a stomach-safe medicine like Paracetamol could be taken. For your abdominal symptoms, I suggest a course of Ranitidine 150mg, twice a day, for one month. -Dr G. Sathish Reddy, Chief Orthopedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Prime Hospitals
I underwent allopathic treatment for piles but it didn’t give me any relief. My friend suggested homeopathy and I was cured within a month. But during treatment, I experienced itchiness in my arm pits, on my thighs, neck and other covered areas. It’s very uncomfortable and I’m unable to concentrate on my regular duties. Is this normal or should I be worried? – M. Dharmanand
Piles are graded into I–IV categories. Medicines and change in diet will work for Grade I and Grade II, but Grade III and IV requires surgery. Homeopathy medicines offer temporary relief and not a complete cure. If you are experiencing active bleeding in the rectum, or pain and itching in the anal region, then it is alarming.- Dr K. A. Muqeet, Laparoscopic Surgeon, Mediciti Hospitals
