Both my big toes face inwards toward the other toes. I don’t have any pain, but it looks awkward.

You seem to have a hallux valgus deformity, common in older women. It is aggravated by tight, pointy-toed, shoes and high heels. Initially, changing your shoes and wearing toe separators may be all that is required. However, if neglected, it may become painful and then require surgery.

Swollen feet

My feet swell up at the end of the day. Why does this happen?

This would normally occur if you sit immobile for a long time, such as during a journey, causing pooling of blood in the feet. Hormonal changes just before menstruation can also cause this. If both hands and feet are swollen, it might be a sign of heart, liver or kidney disease.

Backache

I am 24 years old. By the end of the day, I always have a bad backache and need painkillers to be able to sleep. I was extensively investigated and all my tests were normal.

Backache can occur if you sit hunched all day, especially in front of a computer. It can also happen if you carry a heavy load such as a backpack. You could also experience such aches if you are obese, with a tummy throwing your back muscles out of alignment.

Apply a capsaicin-containing ointment, followed by an ice pack two to three times a day. Do corrective back and core strengthening exercises. Improve your posture. Walk briskly for 30 minutes every day.

Insomnia

I find it difficult to fall as well as stay asleep. My friends told me to try a nightcap. That does not work. I am 60 years old.

Drinking alcohol in order to sleep well is not a good idea. Alcohol can actually prevent you from falling asleep. The sleep may be fitful and non–refreshing.

Chocolate

I like a piece of chocolate every day after dinner. Is that okay?

One square of dark chocolate contains 30 calories and of milk chocolate 25 calories. Cocoa contains beneficial micronutrients called flavonoids, which are anti-inflammatory agents. It is beneficial to the heart and has a small role in preventing strokes. Remember, chocolate also has sugar and saturated fats.

Heart attack

I had a heart attack and have been advised omega-3 fatty acid supplements to lower the risk of another one. Is there any way to obtain this naturally?

Omega-3 fatty acids are useful to lower triglyceride levels and blood pressure and to prevent heart attacks and stroke. They are prescribed as an adjuvant to other medications. They are found naturally in fish, flaxseed, vegetable oils and spinach. Do not stop any prescribed medication.

White patches

I have white patches on my skin, diagnosed as tinea versicolor. Despite treatment, it keeps coming back.

Tinea versicolor is a superficial fungal infection of the skin that takes a couple of months to disappear despite treatment. A hot climate and sweating aggravate this condition. So bathe twice a day and wear cotton clothes. Use the medication (usually topical) regularly. If your doctor has prescribed tablets, please take them in the correct dosage and for the prescribed duration.

Night light

I sleep with a night light, but my wife says it is unhealthy.

A dim light can disturb your natural circadian rhythm and lead to subtle sleep disturbances. If, however, your feet have numbness (peripheral neuritis), it is better to sleep with a dim light.

The writer has a family practice at Vellore and is the author of Staying Healthy in Modern India. She can be contacted at yourhealthgm@yahoo.co.in