DEAR DR. ROACH: I have suffered sciatic pain on my left side for over a year, and an MRI revealed spinal stenosis and arthritis. My doctor, who specializes in physiatry, has recommended an epidural injection with ultrasound. While I trust him, I have been doing some research, and am reluctant to go that route for […]
Advice
Teen booklet will help parents start conversation about sex
DEAR ABBY: Do you have any information or advice on how to talk to my 12-year-old stepdaughter about sex? I have a pretty good idea about where to take the conversation. I don’t plan to make it a big deal — not so serious as to scare her, but not too lighthearted either. You never […]
Virgo: Share your plans
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Scott Porter, 36; Matthew Fox, 49; Jackie Earle Haley, 54; Jane Lynch, 55. Happy Birthday: Let your creative imagination lead the way. Try new things and check out different philosophies and hobbies. Travel should play a big role in your plans, along with educational opportunities that will help you make […]
Woman in wheelchair feels no need to explain her condition
DEAR ABBY: I am a partially disabled person in my 70s. Because of arthritis in my spine and hip, I’m able to stand for only a few minutes and walk only 20 to 30 feet. When I know I am going to be someplace that requires more walking or standing, I use my wheelchair. My […]
There are many causes of weight loss
DEAR DR. ROACH: A year ago, I weighed 175 pounds. My wife was quite concerned when I started to lose weight. I am generally in good shape. I visited my local internist, and he ordered a series of blood tests, CT and MRI scans, and a brain scan, all of which were favorable. However, I […]
Couple deep in tax hole need help in climbing out
DEAR ABBY: I have just learned that my sister’s husband of 35 years (I’ll call him George) hasn’t filed their personal income taxes going back a number of years. This has caused a lot of stress and anxiety for my sister, who recently underwent breast cancer treatment. Apparently, he hasn’t filed because of his inability […]
Capricorn: Take a back seat
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Deborah Cox, 41; Cheech Marin, 69; Harrison Ford, 73; Patrick Stewart, 75. Happy Birthday: Easy come, easy go. Your year will be filled with ups and downs. It’s how you handle emotional situations concerning both home and work that will determine your gains and your losses. Take control of your […]
Low lymphocyte count is cause for concern
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 58-year-old male. Several months ago, I lost 17 pounds, and even though I have gained back about 2 pounds in the past month, I cannot gain the weight back, even by increasing my food intake. I feel tired all the time, and my energy level is not good. My […]
Sagittarius: Make changes to the way you think
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kimberly Perry, 32; Topher Grace, 37; Michelle Rodriguez, 37; Bill Cosby, 78. Happy Birthday: Dig until you find the truth. Emotional deception is apparent when discussing solutions and problems. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your empathetic nature. Generosity will be your downfall. Put greater emphasis on learning and expanding […]
Leave account information for survivors
DEAR ABBY: My problem concerns my children and others who may have to deal with my finances or estate should I become ill or die. I constantly get requests from credit card companies and other businesses, like utilities, urging me to “go paperless.” ”Save a tree … save a forest!” While I’m sympathetic, I worry […]