I checked online and found that metoprolol has a warning to contact the doctor immediately if you experience wheezing, shortness of breath or swelling of hands and feet. He has all those symptoms.
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Metoprolol is a beta blocker that helps prevent the heart from overworking. It can also lower blood pressure.
Some people are sensitive to such medications and develop wheezing or difficulty breathing. This is a serious reaction that deserves immediate medical attention.
Your husband should consult a lung expert (pulmonologist) as soon as possible.
The swelling of hands and feet merits a prompt evaluation by a cardiologist.
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I have a question about a dietary supplement called konjac. It is recommended for controlling blood sugar and assisting with weight loss. Do you know anything about this product?
Konjac, or glucomannan, is made from a Japanese root vegetable. It absorbs water and is sometimes used as a laxative.
Glucomannan contains insoluble fiber that slows the absorption of sugars from the digestive tract. Some studies show that it helps lower blood sugar in Type 2 diabetics. It can also lower cholesterol. Its usefulness for weight loss has not been firmly established.
Joe Graedon, a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedon, an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition, can be reached at People's Pharmacy, King Features Syndicate, 888 7th Ave., New York, NY 10019, or at peoplespharmacy@gmail.com.
