Ask the doctor

Dear Doctor

I have a constant sore throat. Before I thought it was the flu but it’s now continued for three weeks. Also, I cough and feel very light-headed all the time. What’s wrong with me? Please help.

If I understand you, you have had a cough, sore throat and dizziness for more than three weeks. Is the cough dry or productive? Do you have any fever or night sweats? Chest pain? The differential diagnoses are quite vast, they range from ENT problems to respiratory. Please see your general practitioner who will investigate and either treat or refer you accordingly.

Dear Doctor

My hair recently started falling out in chunks. I don’t suffer from alopecia and I don’t use relaxer or any chemicals on my hair. I have, however, been going through a lot of stress at work. Is it true that stress leads to hair loss?

Yes, stress can lead to hair loss. I’m worried about chunks though. But there are other causes of alopecia that would need to be ruled out. Please see a dermatologist urgently.

Dear Doctor

I’m a male aged 30 and my sex drive seems to have died. I recently lost my job and have to figure out ways to pay my bills. The issue is I’m no longer interested in sleeping with my partner. I’m not unattracted to her, I’m just having a problem with keeping her satisfied. What should I do? What’s wrong with me?

The number one cause of loss of libido is stress. You seem to not be coping with the recent stress you have with the job loss, etc. You are still young and I am not sure if you also have any chronic medical conditions or are on medications that can cause this. Please see a psychologist and see if there is improvement. Also, please consult your GP for a full history and physical examination.

Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe. Picture: Refilwe Modise

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