DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a soon-to-be 85-year-old healthy woman. I take a statin and baby aspirin (I assume because of my age) and have my gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) under control. I have scheduled gallbladder surgery for late next month, and I am having doubts about this so-called simple surgery.

My recent symptoms have been occasional stomach discomfort that goes to the right, then under my shoulder blade. An ultrasound revealed numerous stones, and my lab work was negative for any side effects. My only real bout was eight years ago when I thought I was having a heart attack. Soon the pain in the center of my chest passed to the right side under my shoulder blade.

My GI doctor referred me to a surgeon, who explained that with my symptoms and history, I “qualified” for surgery. This, to me, means that the insurance company will OK the surgery. My question is: Since I have insignificant pain only occasionally (nothing in the past month), is it prudent to pursue the surgery? I have been told that if a stone should stick in the duct, it wouldn’t be a good thing.

You can’t make a decision for me, but a description of the pros and cons would be appreciated. — R.R.

ANSWER: Although insurance companies have an unconscionable amount of power over your doctors’ ability to make decisions, I believe that your surgeon was making a medical decision, not an administrative one, when he said that you “qualified” for surgery. (This might not have been the best choice of words.)

People who have multiple gallstones and recurrent symptoms are usually recommended for surgery. Without surgery, it is likely that you will continue to have symptoms, and you are at risk for developing a complication of gallstone disease, such as an infection or inflammation of the pancreas. These can be quite severe for an 85-year-old woman.

I once heard a surgeon tell me that a minor surgery (or a simple surgery) is one that is done on someone else. No surgery should be taken lightly, and at age 85, you are at a somewhat higher risk for complications. However, in most 85-year-olds who are generally healthy, the benefits of the surgery tend to outweigh the risks.

The person who can help you the most will be your own regular doctor, whether they’re an internist or a family medicine doctor. They know you and your medical history well enough to do a better assessment of the benefits and medical risks of the surgery. In my own practice, for most people in your situation, I generally recommend surgery if the surgeon agrees.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I just tested positive for COVID. I thought I had a sinus problem or allergies. What are the symptoms of the new strains that are going around? — J.F.

ANSWER: There is no single symptom that makes COVID or a specific variant certain. Common symptoms of COVID are similar to other respiratory infections and include cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue, headache, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea.

While anecdotal reports note worse hoarseness in the “Stratus” (XFG) variant and a terrible sore throat in the “Nimbus” NB.1.8.1 variant, these are not universal. As of this writing, COVID rates are rising in most states. People at risk should consider masking, social distancing and vaccination (if it is still available).

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu. (c) 2025 North America Syndicate Inc. All Rights Reserved