Fluid can accumulate in the tissues of the face while you are lying down. It usually disappears gradually after you get up and start moving around. Try gently massaging your face in the morning with a small amount of coconut oil or moisturiser, using light upward and outward movements. A cool compress on your face and around your eyes for a few minutes may also help. Reduce excessive salt intake, particularly in the evening. Avoid pickles, papads, packaged foods, chips and other salty snacks. Sleeping with your head slightly elevated on an extra pillow may help prevent fluid from accumulating around the face and eyes overnight.

Nocturnal urination qI have to get up several times during the night to pass urine. I have been diagnosed with BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Although I have been prescribed medication, I am still uncomfortable. What else can I do?

An enlarged prostate is very common in men over the age of 50. It can cause a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination and a feeling that the bladder has not emptied. Do not stop your prescribed medication without consulting your doctor. In addition, avoid drinking large amounts of fluid for two to three hours before bedtime. Cut down on coffee and tea, particularly in the evening. Caffeine can increase urine production and irritate the bladder. Avoid alcohol, urinate regularly every two to three hours. Take your time, relax and do not strain. Try double voiding. After passing urine, wait for a minute or two, relax and then try to pass urine again.

Depression qI am 23 years old and have been diagnosed with depression. Despite taking my prescribed medication regularly, there has been no improvement at all.

Some people take longer than others to respond to antidepressants. Do not stop or change your medication on your own. Have a medical evaluation to rule out conditions like anaemia, Vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid disorders and sleep apnoea. Regular physical activity by exercising outdoors in the morning for 30-40 minutes can improve sleep and release chemicals that positively influence mood.

Weak grip qI am 70 years old and find that things frequently fall from my hands. I have realised that my grip has become weak. What can I do?

Grip strength can gradually decrease with age as muscles lose mass and strength. A simple way to strengthen your grip is to take a soft yellow smiley ball, squeeze gently and then release. Practise the pincer movement by touching the tip of your thumb to each fingertip, or repeatedly picking up a ballpoint pen.

Itchy skin qMy skin itches so much that I cannot sleep at night. What should I do?

Check for a visible rash, eczema, psoriasis, allergy or fungal infection. Persistent generalised itching can be associated with diabetes, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, or liver and kidney disease. If these have been ruled out, the skin may become very dry, thinner, and produce less natural oil with age. Before bathing, gently massage a small amount of coconut or sesame oil onto the skin. Immediately after bathing, apply a generous layer of a moisturising cream or liquid paraffin. Wear loose cotton clothing and avoid strongly perfumed soaps and detergents. If the itching is severe enough to disturb your sleep, or is associated with a new rash, jaundice, weight loss, fever or other symptoms, consult a doctor or dermatologist. Persistent itching deserves evaluation rather than being attributed to ageing alone.

The writer has a family practice at Vellore and is the author of Staying Healthy in Modern India. If you have questions on health issues, write to yourhealthgm@yahoo.co.in