Medical treatments

I am seventy-seven years old. Ulcers in my mouth are repeatedly appearing since a fortnight. Vitamin B tablets and a couple of gels (local application) gave no relief. A few years ago three polyps (benign) were removed from my stomach by endoscopy. I am on antacids and consuming a bland diet and a purgative at bed time. Hot food is causing irritation and burning in the mouth/stomach (oesophagus). Please suggest a few mild tablets and gels for local application. My appetite is also weak. Also, advise if a detailed check up is required.
Raghu Sutram, Hyderabad

Of mouth ulcers, it is most often due to B-complex, iron or micro nutrients deficiency. If you are already taking B-complex, consult a dentist also. For immediate relief, take an antacid gel. For stomach ulcers, proton pump inhibitors maybe useful. Local anesthetic gel application helps for oral relief.

I am taking Ecospirin 150 for the past ten years following an angioplasty in Apollo, Hyderabad. So, to support heart health, I am including fish to my diet at least two days a week. But a report this week in DC supplement cautioned consumers against taking fish, as they may have chemical and other contaminants flushed out into the waters. I would like to know whether I can take fish oil capsules instead, to avoid the health hazard being created by consumption of fish from the waters, and would taking Omega-3 fish oil capsules interfere with my daily intake of Ecospirin? The capsule bottle brought from the US has a note of caution that those who are on medication, and other drugs that affect the clotting of blood, should avoid the capsules.
S. Azeez Ahmad, Secunderabad

You should definitely continue Ecospirin 150 throughout your life. Fish oil capsules or fish don’t interfere with Ecospirin. Omega-3 and 6 are good anti-oxidants that you definitely should continue in your diet. You can then take measures to maintain remission so that recurrence can be prevented and prolong the symptom-free interval. Systemic medication comprising immunosuppressants like methotrexate or cyclosporins after a careful screening of your blood tests is good.

A panel of experts from various hospitals in Bengaluru, Karnataka, will answer readers' queries on their medical problems. Send in your doubts and concerns to wellthy@deccanmail.com