It is possible for men to get UTIs

Dear Doctors: In a recent column, you explained that women can develop repeated urinary tract infections, even with careful hygiene. What about men?Can they also get UTIs? If so, what causes them, and are cranberry supplements helpful for men as well?

Empty nester mom feels adrift without kids

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a 60-year-old single mom, and all four of my children have moved out of my house. It now feels empty, and I’m not sure what to do with myself. My children are my world, and all of my free time went to them when they lived here.

‘The Reading Mother’ stayed with me

I am “up north,” as people say, spending time with my parents at their cabin.My parents are spending more time in town, especially in the winter. But now it is spring, and to hear them tell it, being a nonagenarian is no reason to stay away from the place they love best.

Woman can help boyfriend understand culture

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am an American- born Caribbean woman currently dating an African American man. As we begin to get more serious, I want to introduce him to my family soon.

DO JUST ONE THING

• Witch hazel is a natural astringent distilled from the flowers of a shrub native to North America. It’s often used to soothe acne-prone or inflamed skin because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, witch hazel has natural antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal qualities.

Friend worried woman is making bad decisions

DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my friends and I grew up in similar situations, with one of our parents being alcoholics. We shared our experiences with each other, and we each expressed that our biggest fear is to turn into our parents.

DO JUST ONE THING

• Did you know your old metal sports equipment can be reused, recycled and even turned into cash? Scrap metal yards often accept items like old bikes, dumbbells, soccer goals, metal baseball bats and golf clubs, since they’re made from recyclable steel or aluminum.

Reader wants to help classmate with career

DEAR HARRIETTE: Recently, I presented a classmate of mine with an opportunity to step into her career. We were talking about career goals, and she mentioned she wanted to gain more experience.

Successful medical care requires understanding

Dear Doctors: My husband’s endoscopy showed a small pinkish area at the base of the esophagus. He has no GERD symptoms, but his doctor has prescribed a big dose of a heartburn medication for life. Is that appropriate for just a small pinkish area? What questions should we ask?

Boyfriend upset by mom, partner’s relationship

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been dating my boyfriend for six years now, and I have developed a close relationship with his family. We got along immediately, and they welcomed me in. His mom and I speak regularly for long periods, and my boyfriend feels like it’s excessive.