DEAR DR. ROACH: I have suffered from constant headaches for years. I have had an evaluation by a neurologist, with all kinds of X-rays and scans. Who in the medical field deals with headaches that never go away? They may get to a dull ache, but I always know they are there. -- C.V.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 71-year-old male, 6 feet 1 inch tall, weigh 240 pounds and have atrial fibrillation. It has not impacted my lifestyle. About 90 days ago I had meniscus surgery called a “clean out.” Afterward, my orthopedic surgeon said I should be much better, even though there was significant arthritis. The surgery has not provided me much relief. After examination yesterday, the doctor injected my knee with cortisone, explaining this was the last alternative before a knee replacement.
Q: I hear all kinds of conflicting advice about what supplements to take and whether they are good or bad. Will fish oil increase my LDL? I have heart disease. Can you tell me if it matters if I take the ubiquinol or ubiquinone form of CoQ10? Should I take creatine daily and is creatine monohydrate the same as creatine phosphate? -- Douglas F., Chicago
Dear Amy: My wife and I bought a house. Our intention was to sell it to my son and his wife for the same price that we paid for it.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 76-year-old man in good health. Around February 2021, either just before or just after my first COVID vaccination, I noticed a difference in my taste. I am aware that this can be related to COVID infection. My smell is OK and while I can taste fruits, vegetables, juices, wine/ beer, salads, butter, etc., I have trouble fully tasting food that doesn’t have a lot of flavor to begin with, like meats, seafood, breads, cheese, pasta, nuts, etc. Some have no flavor and some partial flavor; other times, there is some flavor as I take a bite but it diminishes quickly. I have never had any symptoms of COVID or even a sniffle in 2019 to present and have had all three vaccinations but the timing of this issue is suspect. Could I have had COVID and not known it? Could it just be my tastebuds, or should I see a doctor for an evaluation? -- B.J.
Q: I’ve packed on a few pounds in the past year and a half. I think it’s because I am doing less out of the house (less work, play and socializing). Any suggestions? I don’t want to keep gaining weight. -- Laverne G., Gainesville, Florida
Dear Amy: My fiance and I recently became engaged. He is originally from another country, and his family still lives there. Because of COVID-19 restrictions and the visa process, most are unable to travel to the U.S. for a wedding, so we decided to host (and pay for) a small U.S. ceremony and have a big wedding in his home country (where costs are much lower).