Dear Dr. Gott:<$> Hearing conversations in a moving car is sometimes difficult. An inexpensive and convenient solution is the small, battery-powered toy Listen Up (Radio Shack — about $10). It can be attached to the lapel of the speaker in the back seat of any car, and the hearing bud at the other end of the wire goes in the ear of the front-seat passenger. It can also be used by the hearing impaired for clear, one-on-one conversations in restaurants, etc.

I have benefited greatly through the years from the knowledge and wisdom of your column, and it has helped me reach an agile and healthy 92.

Dear Reader:<$> Good solution! I am passing this on to other readers.

<$>Dear Dr. Gott:<$> To be quite honest, I try to avoid doctors (and lawyers, too) at all costs. I have my reasons, having worked in both professions.

I tend to self-diagnose my ills. My medical history includes long-term depression, anxiety and a tendency to obsess. These symptoms are largely under control with Effexor, which, yes, forced a visit to the doctor. I also have high blood pressure, which is well controlled.

What has me stumped, however, are my other symptoms — a near constant drainage into my throat, intermittent plugged up ears, itchy/watery eyes and an abundance of saliva in my mouth, which is the most puzzling of all. (I could spit 10 times after brushing my teeth.)

Could this be allergic sinusitis that I’m describing, or something more sinister, in your opinion? I feel sick to my stomach from ingesting what has to be the saliva. Some days are pretty miserable. Help! Any ideas or suggestions? I’m writing to you, doc, so I don’t have to go see one.

Dear Reader:<$> Your symptoms strongly suggest an allergic component, perhaps something as simple as a reaction to feather pillows on your bed. I do not believe that this annoying problem is “sinister.”

Nonetheless, I urge you to put your objection to doctors on the back burner and get checked over by your family physician. Meanwhile, try taking over-the-counter Claritin, which should block any allergic phenomena and relieve your symptoms.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Allergies.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott:<$> I meant to write you earlier, but somehow I forgot.

I have not consumed beef since the first “mad cow” event was brought to light. Am I overreacting?

Incidentally, I am 72, a survivor of lung-cancer surgery (1992) and metastatic brain cancer (1993) thanks to some genius surgeons and their medical associates.

<$>Dear Reader:<$> The panic over mad cow disease years ago has run its course. There was never a problem in the United States.

Meat does not harm the kidneys. In fact, it is a rich source of protein that is necessary for good health. Should you decide to continue avoiding meat, fine. Vegetarians who substitute plant and grain protein in their diets enjoy long life and good health.