DEAR Dr. ROACH I’m 82 years old and well-nourished. Since May, I’ve been suffering from migraine headaches followed by an aura that lasted two to three times per week. They’re not as bad than they had been when I was younger however I’ve never experienced more than one or two per year since I entered my 40s. I was scanned for the brain back in august, and this was not abnormal. I’m not able to tolerate anti-inflammatory medications because they cause upset to my stomach. Are there any suggestions on the need to be concerned , and/or what I can do to alleviate the headaches? — J.R.
The answer is The answer is: Answer: headaches in people over 50 are a cause for concern. various types of headaches due to migraine, and in particular temporal arteritis. But, your aura’s presence along with the knowledge that you’ve suffered from them before can make migraine the most likely reason.
If you are experiencing over 10 headaches every month, I generally suggest medication to avoid headaches as well as medications that stop headaches from occurring. The medications like sumatriptan are one of the most effective options for treating acute headaches, and there are a variety of options for preventive therapies, including over-the counter options like magnesium, or vitamin B2 or the riboflavin.
Due to your age and the frequentity of the headaches and the frequency of headaches, having an MRI is a good idea and I suggest that visiting your physician regularly and a neurologist who is an expert in headaches to get more treatment.
DEAR Dr. ROACH I recently was diagnosed for the 3rd time with prostate cancer and my radiation doctor said, “We can’t radiate a third time because I don’t want any harm to the colon.”
He has suggested that I try hormone therapy using Orgovyx and my Urologist is on board. My main concern is the adverse consequences; they’re frightening. Do you have any thoughts or any other suggestions? — B.H.
The answer is RESULT: Recurrent prostate cancer following treatment is always an alarming issue and there aren’t many straightforward options. I don’t have enough details regarding the size or location of cancer in the prostate, to offer you a clear and definitive recommendation like your urologist or radiation oncologists do. If definitive treatment via surgery isn’t feasible (in your situation 2 rounds of radiation might have rendered surgery unattainable or may cause other issues with the anatomy) The standard treatment is to block the body’s ability create testosterone. The majority of prostate cancers are able to grow when testosterone is present and the presence of a low testosterone levels (ensured through surgery or drugs such as Orgovyx) typically stops prostate cancer from developing.
The adverse effects may be difficult to manage. Bone loss is a serious issue that can cause fractures, but it is possible to be avoided with treatment. Hot flashes symptoms can be addressed with nonhormonal treatments. Side effects of sexual activity are not uncommon and can be managed by counseling and advice starting before any medication is taken — ask your physician regarding this. Men who have an earlier history of heart disease should have a plan that includes the treatment of any cardiovascular risk because a deficiency in testosterone increases the chance of developing heart issues.
Although there are several potential adverse side effects associated with the reduction of testosterone by using medicines such as Orgovyx however, these adverse effects can be controlled by taking care be aware that treatment for prostate cancer can help people remain healthy longer and your quality of life may be maintained in large part.
Additionally, there are men who have recurrences of prostate cancer who also benefits from platinum-based chemotherapy however, for most males, the biggest benefits with little impact to quality of life stems from the reduction in testosterone levels that comes with medications.
Dr. Roach regrets that he’s not able to respond to individual letters and will be able to incorporate them into the column as is possible. Readers may email questions to [email protected] or send mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803.
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