MY husband has been told he has cervical spondylosis.

Is there any treatment he can have for this?

l Cervical spondylosis is usually a natural consequence of ageing and tends to occur in the second half of life. It is a condition that causes neck pain and stiffness.

About half the population develop a degree of cervical spondylosis by the age of 50, with this figure rising to 70% by the age of 60. Cervical spondylosis affects both sexes, but men usually develop it at an earlier age than women do. Over the years, the vertebrae (bones in the neck) undergo normal age related wear and tear, which can lead to cervical spondylosis. In additional a previous neck injury may trigger the process, especially when it occurs in younger men.

Treatment for cervical spondylosis involves pain relief and prevention of permanent spinal cord and nerve root injury. Most symptoms respond to basic treatment such as taking pain relieving medicines and doing regular low impact aerobic exercise such as swimming or walking. Your GP may refer your husband for physiotherapy to strengthen the neck muscles.

What is Hand, Foot and Mouth disease?

l This disease is a common, mild illness caused by a type of virus called an enterovirus. The disease gets its name from the non-itchy rash that develops on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet.

It can also cause ulcers in your mouth and make you feel generally unwell, although some people have no symptoms. It should not be confused with foot and mouth disease, which affects animals.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is very easily spread and is common in children under 10. However, adolescents and adults can also be affected. Most adults are immune to the virus as they have been previously exposed to it during their childhood. Adults who develop the disease usually experience milder symptoms than children.

Symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease usually appear three to five days. They last for 7 to 10 days before disappearing on their own.

There is no specific treatment. The condition usually clears up by itself after 7 to 10 days. As it is caused by a viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics.

What is frostbite?

l Frostbite is damage to skin and tissue caused by exposure to freezing temperatures - typically any temperature below minus 0.55°C (31°F).

Frostbite can affect any part of your body. However, the extremities, such as the hands, feet, ears, nose and lips, are most likely to be affected. Almost all cases can be prevented by taking precautions and avoiding unnecessary exposure to cold temperatures. The combination of wind and cold can also cause a rapid drop in temperature, so avoid exposing yourself to windy conditions.