DEAR DR. ROACH: In 2013, I complained to my internist about severe shaking in my legs and hands. He referred me to a neurologist, who diagnosed me with a rare disease: primary orthostatic tremor. Most doctors don’t know about this condition, which was first described in 1984. I am told there is no known cause […]
Advice
Diet, alcohol and gout
DEAR DR. ROACH: After two major bouts of gout, my husband was treated with Medrol and colchicine, and has resorted to a low-purine diet in order to decrease the frequency of gout attacks, with their attendant pain and potential renal damage. He completely avoids beef, pork, lamb, mushrooms and rich seafood such as scallops. Chicken […]
Widow’s thoughtful beau is generous to a fault
DEAR ABBY: I’m a widow and have been seeing someone for two years. He often stays at my home. He treats me well, but we have different tastes in furnishings. He brings me trinkets and tacky accessories from his home that I do not display. My spare bedroom closet is filled with these unwanted items. […]
Libra: Don’t hesitate to bring about positive change
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kat Dennings, 30; Chris Evans, 35; Tim Allen, 63; Stellan Skarsgard, 65. Happy Birthday: Smart choices will shape your future. Don’t fall into the trap of pursuing excess and indulgence. Showing discipline and making calculated moves based on what you actually need will make the difference in the outcome of […]
Sister’s future needs must be discussed
DEAR ABBY: My younger sister lives at home with our parents. She suffers from a learning disability as well as some serious mental health issues that are under control. She is a bright, sweet person who — with some help — could become semi-independent. However, my parents have made no serious attempts to encourage this. […]
Sagittarius: Don’t let others take advantage of you
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kendra Wilkinson, 31; Dave Franco, 31; Scott Thompson, 57; Timothy Busfield, 59. Happy Birthday: Think matters through carefully. Rely on your common sense to help you reach your goals. Don’t let anyone sidetrack you by using manipulative tactics. It’s up to you to do your own fact-finding and develop what […]
Trust becomes the casualty in argument over man’s texts
DEAR ABBY: I have been divorced for eight years. My ex and I are on civil terms and text each other a few times a week regarding our kids, mutual friends and general chitchat. A few months ago, during a rough patch in my relationship with my girlfriend of three years, ”Lily,” I expressed my […]
Virgo: Be cautious when dealing with people you live or work with
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Shia LaBeouf, 30; Peter Dinklage, 47; Hugh Laurie, 57; Gene Wilder, 83. Happy Birthday: Look at all sides of a situation. Nothing will be as it appears, and getting the lowdown before you take action will be necessary to avoid loss. Don’t pay attention to hearsay. Focus on what’s reasonable […]
Leo: Staying disciplined will help you reach your goals
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kate Upton, 24; Leelee Sobieski, 33; Shane West, 38; DJ Qualls, 38. Happy Birthday: A problem with colleagues, institutions and anyone who is trying to control your life will develop. Anger will not be the way to solve your problems. Use knowledge and past experiences to carry you through any […]
Clinicians can diagnose Creutzfeldt-Jakob without autopsy
DEAR DR. ROACH: In a recent column a reader said their daughter was diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. My late first wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 1982. After learning she was only 35 years of age, the doctor said that it was probably Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, without explaining why. When she did die years later, […]