Dr Bernadette Carr is here to answer your questions

I am a woman in my 30s. Recently, I have been tired all the time, feeling cold and although I eat a healthy diet, I have put on weight. 

There is a history of thyroid problems in my family.

Given the symptoms you are experiencing, your weighty gain and your family history, I would advise you to make an appointment with your GP so that a diagnosis can be made.

The thyroid gland makes a hormone called thyroxine which is carried around the body in the blood stream so that the body’s metabolism works correctly. If the gland does not produce enough thyroxine it is described as being an underactive thyroid gland or hypothyroidism.

Although men and women can have the condition, women are affected 10 times more than men with 8% of women (with 10% of women over the age 55) and 3% of men having no symptoms but having an underactive thyroid gland.

Due to the short supply of the hormone, cells in the body do not function properly and slow down. Treatment usually involves taking a tablet every day to replace the missing hormone.

An underactive thyroid can cause a number of symptoms including:

* Tiredness

* Weight gain

* Constipation

* Feeling cold

* Dry, thickened skin

* Aches

* Fluid retention

* Hair loss

* Heavy bleeding during menstruation

* Mental slowness.

While the symptoms you are experiencing might possibly be from an underactive thyroid, given the range of symptoms they could all be caused by other conditions. It is very important that you make an appointment as soon as possible to see your GP to discuss these symptoms, along with any family history of thyroid problems.

Along with an examination, your GP can take a history of the symptoms, decide if any investigations are needed, such as a blood test to measure your hormone levels and make a diagnosis.

I have had a pain that goes from my right buttock down my leg to my foot for two weeks. Is this sciatica?

The sciatic nerve goes from the pelvis, through the buttocks and down the legs to the feet. Sciatica is caused by either irritation or compression of the nerve. Sciatic pain starts in the back and travels all the way down the leg below the knee. Sciatica is exacerbated by coughing, straining, sneezing or laughing.

The duration and severity of the pain varies. The most common reason for sciatica is a slipped disc; it could also be caused by an infection or injury. In most cases the pain will resolve itself.

As you have had this pain for a couple of weeks, it is important to have a diagnosis and I would advise making an appointment with your GP.

While you are waiting for your appointment here are some general suggestions to consider:

* Painkillers: over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will relieve pain.

* Keep active: Exercise is good for preventing and reducing back pain particularly walking or swimming. There are specific exercises that strengthen the back muscles — your GP can provide advice.

* Rest when needed.

* Posture. Important so stand straight with head facing forward, legs straight and your weight balanced evenly on both feet.

* Sitting: As important as standing correctly. You hips and knees should be level and your feet on the floor. If you work at a desk desk and chair should be the right height. Try to avoid sitting in the same position for long periods.

* Lifting: If lifting is part of your job make sure that you are using the correct manual handling techniques.

* Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is important.

* Stress: Muscles tense when we are stressed so recognise the signs.

Your GP can examine you, make a diagnosis and advise on the appropriate management.