Q I was told I am allergic to penicillin. I was given it as a young child, but can’t remember it.

Does this mean my child will also be allergic to penicillin?

Eloiuse

A Unfortunately many people are labelled as allergic to penicillin, when what they have suffered is a side effect.

An actual allergic reaction involves an extensive rash, lip or tongue swelling, or difficulty breathing i.e. the person is very unwell.

However many people will suffer side effects including minor rashes, itchiness, nausea and diarrhoea, regardless of which antibiotic and sometimes with most antibiotics.

It is important for this not to be recorded as an allergy as in times of bugs being increasingly resistant to antibiotics, labelling someone incorrectly reduces the options available to treat them.

It would also be unlikely that your child is penicillin allergic solely on your allergy status.

Q I’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes and am on metformin. Do I need to check my sugars? I really don’t like needles.

Horace, 51

A If you are on metformin, the good news is that the majority of people will not need to check their sugars.

Regular checking of sugars is only recommended for those people who suffer with hypos, or where the results of the blood sugar will alter your next dose; this is how insulin therapy is managed.

Metformin on its own does not usually cause hypos.

However it is important that you take your medication regularly as prescribed and that you attend your regular diabetic check-ups, as both these are important for long term control of your sugars and hence diabetes overall.

If you have a question for Dr Zak, you can email him at askdoctorzak@gmail.com, see his website doctorzak.co.uk or find him on Twitter @AskDoctorZak.

Dr Uddin’s advice is provided in good faith and in accordance with currently accepted evidence. However, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always seek the advice of a GP, or other qualified health provider, regarding a medical condition.