DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a woman in my mid-20s, am not overweight and never have been. I have two children. Ever since about age 13, I have had this swishing sound in my stomach. When I push my stomach out, it sounds as if something is filling up with fluid, and when I let […]
Advice
Revenge after breakup should be put on hold
DEAR ABBY: Recently a guy I’ve known for more than a year decided it would be best for us to part ways. Before Christmas, I had asked what he would like for Christmas. His response was, ”I don’t want anything for Christmas — I want you.” A couple of weeks later, he told me the […]
Friend of abused husband hesitates to get involved
DEAR ABBY: I have a friend, ”Ed,” who dated a woman who put him down regularly. He was often depressed, and we would discuss what was wrong. Eventually I told him I didn’t think she was good for him and he should end it. Instead, he became reluctant to tell me if anything was wrong. […]
Homeopathic remedies no better than placebo for postnasal drip
DEAR DR. ROACH: I have nonstop postnasal drip. A Web search led me to a site selling homeopathic remedies that they claim are safe, natural herbs. I’m wary of it. Do you have any suggestions for this problem? — M.W. ANSWER: Postnasal drip is the drainage of fluid, usually mucus mixed with pus, from the […]
Aries: Strive for health, happiness
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Joss Stone, 29; Tricia Helfer, 42; Jennifer Esposito, 43; Joel Grey, 84. Happy Birthday: Take a critical look at where you are, and consider where you would like to be. Make a decision to follow what you feel passionate about. If it entails education, apprenticeship or making a complete change […]
Pisces: Be smart and stick close to your friends
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Alex Pettyfer, 26; Shay Mitchell, 29; Dion Phaneuf, 31; Kasey Kahne, 36. Happy Birthday: Your charm and enthusiasm will help you gain popularity and get what you want. Contracts, agreements and money matters are favored and will encourage you to make simple but strategic moves upward. Love is in the […]
Dentist’s politics a cause for discomfort
DEAR ABBY: I have been seeing the same dentist for a number of years and have always been satisfied with his work. He has recently begun to talk politics while he works on my teeth. While I feel he’s entitled to his opinions, I don’t think I should have to listen while his hand is […]
Question of religion changes dynamics of family friendship
DEAR ABBY: About a year ago, my daughter befriended a schoolmate. After numerous playdates, our families have become close. While my family is atheist, we know this family is devoutly Christian. Recently, after I mentioned in conversation that we “weren’t religious,” they invited us to their church for service. I diplomatically declined, but it felt […]
Pisces: Let your imagination run wild
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Elle Fanning, 18; Kristen Stewart, 26; Leighton Meester, 30; Dennis Quaid, 62. Happy Birthday: Check out your personal and professional options. A change is overdue and will help you feel settled. Uncertainties of the past can be put to rest, allowing you to set new priorities and goals that will […]
Smoker who’s tried everything is desperate to become a quitter
DEAR ABBY: I need some advice about quitting smoking. I am the father of an only child and husband to a wonderful wife. But for some reason, I have not been able to find the motivation to quit. I know smoking is bad for my health, and I don’t want to endanger my child’s health […]