Q: Last summer, I walked on the deck where a yellow jacket was lying upside down. I stepped on it and immediately went down. My foot and calf swelled up within seconds, and I found it hard to breathe.

Should I ask my doctor for an EpiPen? I'm afraid this will happen again this spring or summer.

A: Tell your doctor about your reaction. We believe this could be a strong indication of a serious allergic reaction, and next time might be worse. Your doctor can prescribe an EpiPen and explain how and when to use it to avoid anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening. Even with a shot of epinephrine, you would need to go immediately to an emergency department.

Q: I am 61 years old. My doctor recently tested me for vitamin D and found I am deficient. I was really surprised because I play golf both summer and winter.

What are the causes and consequences of a vitamin D deficiency? My legs have become quite weak, so I golf with a cart. I even use a cart at the supermarket to make it all the way around the store.

A: Regular sunscreen use might block vitamin D production even though you spend time in the sun. Some medications can lower vitamin D levels in the body. They include prednisone (and other corticosteroids), some anti-seizure medications (phenytoin, primidone, valproic acid) and certain cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Low levels of vitamin D are linked to bone pain, muscle weakness, cognitive impairment, depression, arthritis and falls. You may need a supplement to get you back on track.

Q: My doctor prescribed Effexor XR for my hot flashes five years ago. I took one tablet at bedtime, as directed, and did not sleep all night.

I was nauseated and lightheaded for 18 hours. My first capsule of Effexor was also my last because during that 18-hour period I was not sure if I was going to live or die.

A: We are sorry to learn you had such a difficult time with Effexor XR. Nausea, dizziness and insomnia are common reactions to this drug. Women who tolerate the drug may find the side effects are easier to handle than hot flashes, but others will come to the same conclusion as you.

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People's Pharmacy: Be proactive with yellow-jacket allergy