AT his own request, my dad recently came off his medication for Alzheimer's disease. The condition has worsened. Is this normal?

There are no drug treatments that can cure Alzheimer's disease or any other common type of dementia.

However, medicines have been developed for Alzheimer's disease that can temporarily alleviate symptoms, or slow down their progression, in some people.

Medication should be reviewed regularly, and continued for as long as the benefits outweigh any side effects.

If a person with Alzheimer's decides to stop taking a drug, they should speak to their GP first if possible, or as soon as they can after stopping treatment.

Treatment may also be stopped by agreement with the GP if the person becomes unable to take the medicines in the prescribed way, even with support.

If someone stops taking their prescribed drug, their condition may get worse more quickly. If your dad wants to restart his medication, it is important that you get advice from his GP. For more help and advice: www.nhsinform.scot

I'VE recently noticed reddish-purple stretch marks on my arms and a rounder face. Does it have anything to do with the steroids I'm taking for asthma?

You should speak with your GP.

The symptoms sound like Cushing's syndrome, which is a known side effect of taking steroids. People taking high does of steroids in the long-term, often have a build up of cortisol in their blood.

The main treatment for Cushing's syndrome caused by intake of steroids is to decrease or withdraw the use of corticosteroids.

However, this must be done gradually to avoid any unpleasant side effects.

For Cushing's syndrome caused from inside the body e.g. a tumour that abnormally produces steroids, surgery to remove the tumour is usually recommended.

If surgery is unsuccessful or it's not possible to remove the tumour safely, medication can be used to counter the effects of the high cortisol levels.

Although treatment is effective, it can take some time to bring the symptoms under control.

Left untreated, Cushing's syndrome can cause high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

WHAT is Kyphosis?

Everyone has a slightly curved spine but Kyphosis is an abnormal curving that causes the top of the back to appear hunched.

In mild cases of Kyphosis, there will be no other symptoms. More severe cases can associated with back pain and tenderness. Very severe cases can cause difficulties with breathing or eating.

A physical examination by your GP can confirm an abnormal curve in the spine. They may ask you to do simple exercises or lie down in order to confirm the diagnosis. Some curved spines are associated with back posture and can be corrected by sitting correctly and exercising to strengthen the back.

Treatment depends on the type of Kyphosis, and whether the curve in the spine is causing pain or any other symptoms. Surgery is not usually required, unless Kyphosis is severe. Children with Kyphosis may find their symptoms improve by the use of a back brace.