DEAR MISS MANNERS: Some people, one childhood friend in particular, seem to think I’ll be fascinated by their every health concern.

After a lifetime in health care, I very much do not want to hear these details. The occasional question, sure. But 20 increasingly queasy minutes of nonstop description? No.

Is there a polite way to interrupt these topics that they so love discussing?

GENTLE READER: “I have been out of practice for quite a while now, so I wouldn’t want to give you wrong information. You should save these intricate details for a specialist.”

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.