As if wearing a paper gown and being looked at from every angle isn’t intimidating enough, asking the doctor blushinducing questions may seem like an insurmountable task. Yet, talking honestly and openly with the doctor can calm fears and get the problem diagnosed and treated, and if a serious health issue is detected, early diagnosis is critical.
Internal medicine physician Crystal Tuncay, D.O., assures us doctors have heard it all before and takes a few minutes to answer some of those most embarrassing questions.
1. How do I stop sweating so much? It's really bothering me.
“Yes, stained and soggy clothing are a distraction but, sweat is necessary to regulate body temperature,” explained Dr. Tuncay. She went on to share that any number of things can cause excessive sweating, such as infection, hormonal changes and even certain medications. “About two- to three-percent of Americans have a condition called hyperhidrosis, which means excessive sweating,” commented Dr. Tuncay. “Treatment ranging from topical medication and oral medications to Botox injections that temporarily block the nerves that trigger sweat glands or even to surgery to interrupt nerve signals or removal of selected sweat glands may be used.”
2. It seems like I have the urge to pee every 15 minutes. What's wrong?
Dr. Tuncay said the most likely culprit is a urinary tract infection and a course of antibiotics should cure it. “Other common causes may include an overactive bladder, diabetes, being on certain diuretics (water pills), or excessive caffeine or alcohol intake.” Dr. Tuncay cautioned that this condition could be caused by a more serious problem including bladder stones, cancer or Neurogenic Bladder also known as a spastic or hyperactive bladder which is a chronic condition requiring treatment by a urologist. “Patients should always talk with their doctor about this condition so that any serious problems can be ruled out,” she added.
3. My breasts look uneven. What's this all about?
Breast asymmetry is not all that unusual. Just as one foot can be bigger than the other, no two breasts are exactly the same size, unless a woman has undergone breast reduction or augmentation surgery. “Size differences can be exacerbated by breast feeding and weight fluxuations,” Dr. Tuncay offered. “But, to be safe that it is not indicative of something more serious, consult your primary care physician or gynecologist.”
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