I fainted at a meeting a few weeks ago. I am concerned in case it means something more serious. My GP has told me not to worry. Is he right?

Your GP will know your medical history and isn't concerned that this could be a long-term issue for you so please do not worry.

Fainting is very common. Around 50% of women will faint during their lives, and around 25% of men. In most cases of fainting, the person who has fainted regains consciousness quickly. To function properly, the brain relies on oxygen that is carried in the blood. Fainting can occur when the blood flow to the brain is reduced.

It can be triggered by emotional stress, pain or prolonged standing. Physical processes such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing, can also cause it. This kind of fainting is called a neurally mediated syncope and usually, no further treatment is needed.

If you know or suspect that you are going to faint, you should lie down, preferably in a position where your head is low and your legs are raised. This will encourage blood flow to the brain. If it is not possible to lie down, sit down with your legs raised. If you suspect someone else is about to faint, you should help them to lie down or sit down in this way.

My father has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. I am devastated for him. Is there a cure?

There currently isn't a cure but there are many treatments that can alleviate the symptoms.

Parkinson's is not fatal but can place a great strain on the body. Treatments include; supportive therapies that help people cope with everyday life (such as physiotherapy), or medication to control the symptoms. For some people with a particular pattern of symptoms, surgery may be an option.

Your father should agree a care plan with his healthcare professionals and you, his family or carers, and this should be reviewed regularly.

It is estimated that around 1 in 500 people are affected by Parkinson’s disease and there are currently 127,000 people in the UK with the condition. Due to the advancements in treatment, people with Parkinson’s disease now often have a normal or near-normal life expectancy. You can also see the Parkinson's UK website at www.parkinsons.org.uk for advice and details of your nearest Scottish support group, or contact Parkinson's UK free on 0808 800 0303 Monday to Friday 8am–7pm and Saturday 10am-2pm.

What is Giardiasis?

Giardiasis is an infection of the digestive system which is caused by tiny parasites called giardia intestinalis. The parasites live in the intestines of humans and animals. When an infected person passes a stool (goes to the toilet), some of the parasites inside the intestines can be passed out of the body inside the stool.

After the parasites have left the body, they form a hard, protective shell that helps to protect them from the environment. In this form, the parasite is known as a giardia cyst. Giardia cysts can survive outside the body for several months or sometimes several years.

Once outside the body, giardiasis is usually spread by drinking water that has been contaminated with infected stools (faeces). This most commonly occurs in countries that have poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.

Less commonly, giardiasis is spread when an infected person does not wash their hands properly after going to the toilet, and then transfers the parasites onto surfaces, utensils or food.

Anyone who touches infected surfaces, uses infected utensils, or eats contaminated food can transfer the parasites into their mouth and cause an infection.

Symptoms

The symptoms of giardiasis usually begin 9-15 days after contracting a giardiasis infection. Initial symptoms are typically an upset stomach, loss of appetite, nausea (feeling sick) and a low grade fever. These initial symptoms are usually followed by repeated bouts of watery, foul smelling diarrhoea.

Diagnosis

Giardiasis can be diagnosed by checking your stool samples for giardia cysts. This is usually done in a laboratory.

Several stool samples may need to be checked over a period of several days because giardia cysts are not usually passed out of your body every time you go to the toilet.

Treatment

Giardiasis can usually be successfully treated with a medicine called metronidazole. Metronidazole works by killing the parasites that cause giardiasis.

Metronidazole is usually taken in tablet form with most people taking a seven-day course of medication. Metronidazole does not usually cause any side effects, however, if you feel sleepy and dizzy while taking metronidazole, do not drive or operate complex or heavy machinery.

In very rare cases, some people experience a serious allergic reaction after taking metronidazole. You should immediately stop taking metronidazole and seek immediate medical advice if you develop a rash, suffer a fit or your hands, lips, face etc become swollen. You should not drink any alcohol while taking the medication as it reacts with it to cause unpleasant side effects e.g. severe flushing.

If you are diagnosed with giardiasis, other members of your household may be advised to have treatment with metronidazole. This may be recommended as a precautionary measure just in case they have also been infected. Your GP will be able to advise you whether treatment is necessary.