Ask the doctor: swollen ankle and gum pain

Dear doctor, I got an injury playing sport two weeks ago. My ankle clicked when I turned on the field and swelled up afterwards. It’s been two weeks of massaging and it’s still swollen. It’s not broken – why won’t the swelling go down and what do I need to do?

There is definitely injury of your ankle that needs professional attention. Please see a doctor so they can exclude fracture, dislocation or ligament damage. You will be given antiinflammatories and pain medication.

Most importantly, the doctor will refer you to a physiotherapist who will help you get back to full strength and function of ankle and do away with the swelling.

Dear doctor, I have constant gum pain. The dentist said my gum isn’t swollen and this could be associated with stress.

If the dentist finds nothing wrong please see a doctor who will exclude other causes. There might be local causes like inflammation or infection.

The more systemic causes could be chronic illness or medication that could have gum swelling as a side-effect. Your doctor will be able to reach a definite diagnosis and assist you further.

Dear doctor, my six-month-old baby is taking a while to adjust to solids. Am I feeding her the wrong food? What do I do?

Yes, you probably are, depending on what you have introduced as solid food. Also, six months might be early for your child in particular, depending on their size and general wellbeing.

I suggest you start with soft or mashed vegetables and see how she responds to that. Then, slowly introduce things with firmer consistency. You can also visit a dietician to make sure you are introducing your child to the right solids.

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