Dr. Gott: Anxiety may cause insomnia

Dear Dr. Gott: I have two questions for you.

1. I am 80 years old, an old registered nurse and aware of older persons with sleep problems that indicate mild anxiety and/or depression. And many have insignificant medical complaints. What is your advice for them?

Example: They go to sleep at the regular time and wake up two or three hours later and are unable to get back to sleep until it is time to get up in the morning.

If I suggest they are mildly anxious or depressed, they are offended! How would you handle this common problem?

2. Am I weird or just practical? I am planning on getting a tattoo on my chest stating “DO NOT RESUSCITATE!” In my mind, this is the most immediate “advanced directive” one needs.

Granted, they might start resuscitating me, etc., as the law orders, but at least my desires are in plain sight for all to see. As you know, most living wills cannot be located when needed.

I feel young people should get this tattoo rather than a decorative one. Case in point – Terri Schiavo of Florida. What’s your input on this?

Dear Reader: There’s no such thing as an “old registered nurse.” You’ll never lose your skills or take back what you have given. Now, to your issues.

Many people have no problem getting to sleep but have a devil of a time falling asleep if they awaken during the night. Depression, anxiety, problem-solving, and aches and pains are well-documented causes for this. I would conclude that, in your experience, insomnia has many causes, including depression.

I couldn’t agree more with your position that DNR status must be loud and clear. As I get older, I become less confident of being able to ward off serious ailments, some of which could be fatal, without appropriate legal documentation of my wishes.

Although tattoos may not be the answer to the problem of DNR, those of us who don’t choose this alternative can certainly make our feelings known.

Dear Dr. Gott: I really enjoy eating oysters. Fifteen years ago, I was diagnosed with hepatitis A. If I eat oysters again, is it possible that I am more susceptible to becoming ill again, or have I developed an immunity to the virus? Will eating partially cooked oysters (baked, grilled or broiled) reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis A?

Dear Reader: Shellfish can carry the hepatitis A virus. Repeated exposure to such sources will not lead to immunity to hepatitis, nor will light cooking of the seafood. I suggest that you consider receiving a hepatitis vaccine, which will provide you with immunity.