HELOISE Alcohol should be considered an important health topic

Dear Heloise: I am an internist teaching in a residency-training program in Chattanooga, Tenn.
I am writing because I noticed that many patients, and sometimes the physicians I train, have trouble discussing an important health topic -- alcohol use. While many people know that stomach pains and bleeding, liver problems and blackouts might be related to alcohol use, they might not know that forgetfulness, high blood pressure, sexual dysfunction, falls, sleeping problems and medication problems can be related to alcohol intake as well.
Understanding how alcohol affects overall health is an important lifestyle issue for everyone who drinks.
I'd like to offer your readers some hints for talking to their doctors about alcohol:
UTo ease into the conversation, try asking your doctor to discuss and explain the recent research on the health benefits of alcohol. Doing so will lead your doctor to ask you important questions about how much you drink and how often, but in a way that should be easy and not embarrassing.
UConsider starting the conversation by mentioning any family history of alcohol use. This will lead to a natural discussion of alcohol's risks and potential benefits as it relates specifically to you.
UAsk if there are brochures or handouts the doctor might have that you can take home to read at your leisure or share with a family member or friend.
UMake sure to ask about interactions with alcohol every time you get a new prescription. More than 150 medications interact with alcohol, including common over-the-counter ones.
URemember, your doctor will keep your discussion confidential, and only by being honest can you get the help you or a loved one might need. Doctors want to be able to answer your questions and alleviate or address concerns. They will appreciate the sign of trust you have given them by initiating this conversation.
Many doctors are starting to ask regular screening questions about alcohol use, just as they do for cigarette smoking and exercise habits. Answer these questions honestly, and remember that the doctor is doing this to keep you healthy. Ann Rybolt, MD, Chattanooga, Tenn.
Dear Dr. Rybolt: Thank you for your letter.
Readers, National Alcohol Screening Day is April 8, and you can attend a free alcohol screening -- just call toll-free (877) 311-6273 for a location near you. Heloise
Dear Heloise: When my mom passed away, I took her wigs to the local American Cancer Society office. They were very happy to pass them on to someone who couldn't afford one. J.K., Florida
This is a wonderful hint, and one that will help so many women. Thank you for writing. Readers, your donation can be tax-deductible, so ask for a receipt. Wigs, like many things, differ in value, so check with a wig shop or your tax person about how much to value the wig being donated. Heloise
XSend a great hint to: Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, Fax: (210) HELOISE or E-mail: Heloise@Heloise.com.
King Features Syndicate