Q I have recently developed a constant ringing in one ear, although there hasn’t been an obvious trigger. I had this once before and it was cured by ear syringing. Is it tinnitus or just ear-canal blockage?

JD from south London

A Get your ears checked. It is likely to be due to a build-up of wax, which syringing should settle. Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears or head) affects 15% of the UK population occasionally, and 2% severely. If it occurs on one side only and there is associated deafness, it could signify an acoustic neuroma – a slow-growing tumour on an acoustic nerve. This requires an MRI scan for diagnosis.

If your ear is clear or your symptoms persist after ear syringing, get yourself checked right away. For more information see www.tinnitus.org.uk.

Q Bursitis causes me pain in the right hip and groin. My physio says to take it easy on the joint, but as it is stiffening she recommends hip-stretching exercises and that I strengthen my core stability. Apparently an operation is a must if you’ve had bursitis for more than six months.

HM from West Sussex

A Your hip bursa – a friction-reducing, fluid-filled sac around the joint – is inflamed. This occurs increasingly with age but trauma or repetitive movements can also be triggers. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory tablets can help, but a bad hip bursitis may require a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation. Keep active, stretch, and ask your doctor for a specialist referral.

QI get tender scalp hair follicles. I have varied my hair-washing frequency and use a mild shampoo. Any ideas?

DB from Carlisle

A You have scalp folliculitis – inflammation of the hair follicles. This is usually a reaction to bacteria and yeasts around hair follicles and causes small, itchy pustules, often on the frontal hairline.

Wash your hair with a mild shampoo that has an antifungal agent such as ketoconazole, and get a topical antibiotic from your doctor. If it persists, an oral antibiotic may be needed.

All questions are answered by a practising doctor. To consult Dr Know, e-mail drknow@sunday-times.co.uk. E-mails cannot be answered individually

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