Dear Dr. Gott: What is the difference between a stroke and a heart attack?

Dear reader: A stroke occurs when a vessel in the brain breaks or a clot blocks an artery, interrupting blood flow to a particular portion of the brain.

In some cases, the interruption leads to temporary malfunction. In most cases, however, permanent neurological damage occurs.

Because the actions on one side of the body are controlled by the cerebral hemisphere on the opposite of the body, a ruptured blood vessel or blood clot on the right side of the brain will result in the left side of the body being affected.

Heart attacks are permanent and sudden damage to the heart muscle caused by a clot in a coronary artery. There are classic signs of an attack, such as chest discomfort; shortness of breath; pain in the centre of the chest, jaw, back, shoulders, neck and arms; lightheadedness; fainting; breaking out in a cold sweat; and nausea.

Still, other people may not experience these symptoms and may be unaware they are even having an attack.

Angina is recurring discomfort in the chest, arms or shoulders that is caused by a temporary reduction of blood flow to the heart. It is a sign the heart muscle has been deprived of oxygen.

While symptoms resemble those of a heart attack, angina does not cause permanent damage, but it is a warning that often heralds a future heart attack.

Medication and other treatments such as lifestyle changes are available for angina, heart attack and most strokes.

Recognising the symptoms and seeking prompt medical care is critical for optimal results.

To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports "Stroke" and "Coronary Artery Disease".

Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a check or money order for $2 for each report to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title(s).

Dear Dr. Gott: I am very upset at the medical and pharmaceutical world. About five years ago, I was prescribed a thiazide diuretic for my blood pressure.

Recently, my doctor indicated I would soon need a prescription for elevated blood sugar.

There's no diabetes in my family. I've talked with five or six other people with the same situation. All have become Type 2 diabetics after taking the same prescription for blood pressure.

The pamphlet provided by my pharmacy states the product may bring on latent diabetes in some people. I'm furious!

Why couldn't my own doctor have known this and put me on something else? Right now, I'd like to sue the pharmaceutical company and my doctor for compromising my health. What should I do?

Dear reader: Thiazide diuretics used for hypertension and heart disease do, in some people, lead to elevated blood-sugar levels. I'm a little surprised your doctor failed to inform you of this, as well as of other potential side effects.

I should add that all medicines, both prescription and over the counter, have side effects. Even aspirin can lead to dangerous consequences. Everyone should be well-informed. I don't seriously fault your doctor or the pharmaceutical industry but if I were you, I'd contact both to express my anger and add to their continuing education.

Dr. Peter Gott is a retired physician and the author of the book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet," available at most chain and independent bookstores, and the recently published "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook." Write directly to Dr. Gott c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., 4th fl., New York, NY 10016.