Dr. Michele Haber MD, MS, MPH

Geriatrician | Geriatric Medicine

1104 N HOLDEN RD GREENSBORO NC, 27410 Show map

About
Contacts & Locations

About

Dr. Michele Haber practices Geriatric Medicine in GREENSBORO, NC. Geriatricians prevent, manage, and develop care plans that address the special health problems of the elderly. Dr. Haber works as part of a team with other healthcare providers, to address the natural aging that goes on within the body and to manage multiple medical problems and ensure social support.

Education and Training

Columbia University

Board Certification

Internal MedicineAmerican Board of Internal MedicineABIM- Geriatric Medicine

Provider Details

MaleEnglish 35 years of experience

Dr. Michele Haber MD, MS, MPH

Dr. Michele Haber MD, MS, MPH's Expert Contributions

My Answers

What are the foods that can relieve constipation in the elderly?
For constipation, prune juice (warm or room temperature) and stewed prunes remain a classical “standard”, as do dried prunes and other dried fruits, such as apricots, raisins, dates, etc. Another option would be the “Bowel Recipe” which is easy to prepare, as follows: mix together one-half cup applesauce, one-half cup prune juice and one-half cup bran, refrigerate and take one heaping tablespoon a day. Of course, the specific amount of any of these options can be titrated for optimal effectiveness. Good luck! Michele Haber, MD READ MORE
Can we try home remedies for my father's constipation problem?
I would be cautious. Is this “constipation” a new problem or something chronic? Any new meds or other changes to his routine? People define constipation differently, so it may be something to discuss with his doctor. I usually advise starting with stewed or dried prunes or prune juice or similar, and of course ensuring plenty of fluids and activity/exercise as tolerated. Michele Haber, MD READ MORE
My mother is on over 5 medicines a day. Could this be slowing down her system?
All medications have side effects which always must be weighed against the anticipated benefits. Sedation, appetite changes and constipation are common side effects of many medications, and may be exacerbated by misunderstanding of directions, interactions between medications and/or the underlying medical conditions for which medications are prescribed. The symptoms should be discussed with her PCP and all treating physicians, all of whom should be familiar with her complete medical history and medication list (including all over-the-counter medications and supplements) so that the problems can be addressed and resolved in a timely manner. Michele Haber, MD READ MORE
is Quetiapine known to make one drowsy?
Yes it is. It may be helpful to take at bedtime. READ MORE
My mother has been constantly losing weight. Should we be concerned?
Very concerning. Needs a good evaluation, including a comprehensive physical exam and bloodwork for starters, then further testing as indicated. READ MORE
My grandmother is 80 years old and is complaining of constant drowsiness. What could be the reason?
Despite not losing consciousness, might she have hit her head? Or, is something else going on that both precipitated the fall and her drowsiness? She should have a thorough evaluation. READ MORE
My father is 84 years old and bedridden. He is having diarrhea since yesterday. What should we do?
Diarrhea could have several causes which need to be evaluated. Particularly if it continues more than 24-48 hours, an evaluation is indicated. Important to know, is he taking fluids so that he does not become dehydrated? Evaluation should include a thorough history, including other symptoms, e.g., nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, any history of similar, were there any medication changes, any recent antibiotics. Did he eat anything out of the ordinary, is anyone else in the household having similar symptoms, etc., and physical examination, consideration of stool studies. READ MORE
My mother has a cut on her leg which hasn't been healing for the last 2 weeks. What could it be?
With what is it being cleaned and what medications are being given? Nutritional status is an important consideration for wound healing as could be various chronic illnesses. An evaluation is indicated. READ MORE
My father is undergoing severe depression after my mom passed away. How can we help him?
First, sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. How long has it been? People grieve differently but sadness and loss are certainly normal. Your support and that of other close family and is invaluable—it is often helpful to encourage talk about the loss, not to avoid the subject for fear of “upsetting” someone. Bereavement counseling may be helpful, and when grieving continues beyond three months and/or becomes complicated by other symptoms of clinical depression, medication (appropriate for his kidney function) may be helpful. READ MORE
My mother in law has vaginal bleeding all of a sudden at the age of 72. What is wrong?
Vaginal bleeding in a 72 year old COULD be the first sign of endometrial cancer—she should be evaluated by a gynecologist ASAP. Michele Haber, MD READ MORE
How can older people be treated for lack of sleep?
Rule out potentially treatable sleep disorder, e.g., sleep apnea. Review timing of meds, some of which may be interfering with sleep and/or sedating him during the day. Consider trial of melatonin, starting 1-3 mg, up to 10 mg (assuming it is not contraindicated and his PCP approves). Michele Haber, MD READ MORE
Can you suggest a suitable medication for my grandmother's throat pain?
Would start with something like Cepacol throat spray. If not successful, would then also think to r/o reflux with a trial of H2 blocker or PPI. READ MORE
What are the most effective laxatives for people above the age of 70?
MiraLax Michele Haber, MD READ MORE