Opinion

Dear Amy: Through some unusual circumstances too complicated to explain here, I met another man about seven and a half years ago. We first met for a sexual encounter and soon became lovers.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I am an 80-year-old active male taking only thyroxine. I have no known health issues. In November 2021, I experienced a migraine with aura and have a slight vision loss in my right eye. After seeing an eye doctor, a retinal specialist and a primary care doctor, the only thing I am hearing is the term “microvascular disease.” This is based on the eye doctor’s examination. I am unable to find a satisfactory definition or prognosis anywhere I search. Any information you could provide would be appreciated. -- R.B.

Q: There’s so much going on with new medical treatments, but are they actually making a difference in my health today? -- Gregory Y., Columbus, Ohio A: It’s been an exciting year in medical research, with more insights into how cancer forms and how to stop it, how genes operate, and how technology can personalize medicine. Every year, the Cleveland Clinic identifies the top 10 breakthroughs.

Dear Amy: Recently, my biological father emailed me to say he’d like to get to know me. We’ve never met.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I take telmisartan for high blood pressure. Included in each bottle is one of those tiny moisture-absorbent packs. Once the package is opened and I begin taking the pills, is it necessary to keep the dehydrator “pill” in the bottle, or can I discard it? I have, more than once, almost popped the dehydrator in my mouth, as it is so close to the telmisartan’s shape, size and color. Is telmisartan particularly prone to absorbing ambient water? None of my other medications contain dehydrators. -- H.W.