Understanding Elevated Platelet Counts: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated platelet count in health checkup? Hello Doctor, During my health check last month, I found out that my platelet count is elevated (476 x 1000/uL), with the following results: WBC 9.2 x 1000/uL, Hb 16.4 g/dL, MCV 87.5 fL, MCHC 33.3 g/dL, RBC 5.63 x 10^6/uL, HCT 49.3%, M...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, you should just observe for now. If you are still concerned, you can go to the clinic for a blood test in three months for follow-up. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Platelet Counts: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Your Recent Myocardial Perfusion SPECT Results: Key Insights
Recently underwent a myocardial perfusion scan? Hello, Doctor. Recently, I underwent a myocardial perfusion study, and I found the report a bit difficult to understand. My follow-up appointment is still two months away, and I'm feeling anxious. Could you please help interpre...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
The report indicates a significant degree of myocardial hypoxia. It is recommended to consult with your outpatient physician early to discuss subsequent treatment options.[Read More] Understanding Your Recent Myocardial Perfusion SPECT Results: Key Insights
Adjusting Blood Pressure Medication: Safe Dosage Tips and Guidelines
How to increase the dosage of blood pressure medication? Hello Doctor: I have always had low or normal blood pressure. However, about 8 to 9 months ago, I noticed that I seemed to have high blood pressure. I started taking antihypertensive medication six months ago (Caduet 50mg, ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
It is recommended to maintain the current dosage for now, and then reduce the dosage once blood pressure stabilizes.[Read More] Adjusting Blood Pressure Medication: Safe Dosage Tips and Guidelines
Comparing the Efficacy of Atorvastatin and Pitavastatin for Cholesterol Reduction
The efficacy of lipid-lowering medications? Hello, I would like to ask: Is the lipid-lowering effect of Atoroty 20mg (Atorvastatin) significantly stronger than that of Livalo OD 2mg (Pitavastatin), or is the efficacy of the two medications not that different? Thank you for your r...
Dr. Cai Guiqin Reply:
We recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. Thank you, and best wishes for your health![Read More] Comparing the Efficacy of Atorvastatin and Pitavastatin for Cholesterol Reduction
Understanding the Differences in Echocardiogram Reports for Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure Hello, doctor. I inquired about my recent echocardiogram report the day before yesterday (thank you very much for your response). Could you please help me review the echocardiogram from June 2022? I would like to understand the differences compared to my ...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was previously poor (35%), indicating that the heart's contraction was relatively weak at that time. Recently, there has been an improvement, which is likely a result of medication. Please continue to take your medication ...[Read More] Understanding the Differences in Echocardiogram Reports for Heart Failure
Can Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Fly Safely?
Can a person with atrial fibrillation fly on an airplane? Hello, doctor: May I ask if patients with atrial fibrillation can fly?
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: Patients with atrial fibrillation can fly. However, it is important to take precautions when traveling long distances. They should carry and continue their regular medications (such as anticoagulants and antihypertensive drugs) to avoid complications due to interruption in...[Read More] Can Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Fly Safely?
Can Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Fly Safely?
Can a person with atrial fibrillation fly on an airplane? Hello, doctor: Can patients with atrial fibrillation fly on an airplane?
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
This issue is a duplicate of <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/210213">#210213</a>.[Read More] Can Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Fly Safely?
Calcium-Free Statins: Which Cholesterol Medications to Choose?
Calcium-free lipid-lowering medications? Hello, could you please let me know if there are any statin medications that do not contain calcium? If so, which statin medications are calcium-free? Thank you for your assistance.
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, statin medications themselves do not contain calcium; however, I am not sure about the additives used by different manufacturers. Apologies for any confusion, and thank you for your concern from Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Calcium-Free Statins: Which Cholesterol Medications to Choose?
Understanding High LDL Cholesterol: Lifestyle and Health Insights
Cholesterol issues? I recently received my health check report, with the following values: height 162 cm, weight 64.1 kg, waist circumference 74 cm, triglycerides 49 mg/dL, total cholesterol 281 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol 73 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, diet and lifestyle habits such as staying up late, as well as genetics, can all contribute to health issues. It's best to avoid ramen broth, fried foods, desserts, and nuts. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.[Read More] Understanding High LDL Cholesterol: Lifestyle and Health Insights
Understanding Exercise ECG Results: What Does Oxygen Deprivation Mean?
Interpretation of Exercise Electrocardiogram Hello Doctor, I recently experienced chest tightness and difficulty breathing, feeling like I couldn't take a full breath, so I made an appointment with a cardiologist. The doctor said that my electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardi...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, having only one lead with abnormalities may not be a problem. It depends on whether you are experiencing any discomfort. Otherwise, it should be fine to observe for now. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Exercise ECG Results: What Does Oxygen Deprivation Mean?
Understanding Your Echocardiogram: Key Insights for Heart Health
I visited the clinic due to a slow heart rate, but I hadn't slept well for the past two days before the echocardiogram. Could you help interpret the echocardiogram results? You visited due to "slow heart rate," but you hadn't slept well for the two days prior ...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
The echocardiogram report shows mitral valve prolapse with mild mitral regurgitation and slight tricuspid regurgitation. No other structural or functional abnormalities were noted. If there are frequent episodes of bradycardia, a 24-hour Holter monitor test can be considered.[Read More] Understanding Your Echocardiogram: Key Insights for Heart Health
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Panic Attacks or Thyroid Issues?
Rapid heartbeat Twelve years ago, my father suddenly passed away, and I developed a condition characterized by sudden heart palpitations, dizziness, numbness in my limbs, insomnia, night terrors, and a fear of death. At that time, I was diagnosed with panic disorder and underwent...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
If the 24-hour Holter monitor did not detect PSVT, there is no need to worry; for issues related to hyperthyroidism, please consult an endocrinologist.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Panic Attacks or Thyroid Issues?
Should Atrial Flutter and Atrial Fibrillation Be Treated Together?
Should atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation be treated with a single catheter ablation? Hello, Doctor. During a health checkup, I was found to have arrhythmia and was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation by my outpatient physician. I have been taking medication (Apixaban and Digo...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, regarding this treatment, opinions may vary. Is it necessary to perform catheter ablation for atrial flutter? It doesn't necessarily worsen, and it may not always require ablation. It should be possible to manage without any specific discomfort. It's best to appr...[Read More] Should Atrial Flutter and Atrial Fibrillation Be Treated Together?
Alternatives to Berkey: Managing Side Effects and Blood in Stool
The side effect of Berkey medication is profuse bloody stools? Hello: My father is a dialysis patient. Two months ago, he underwent cardiac catheterization and had two drug-eluting stents placed. The doctor prescribed Brilinta (ticagrelor) and Clopidogrel (Plavix) to be taken onc...
Dr. Chen Jili Reply:
We recommend that you: 1. Discuss the above situation further with your attending physician. 2. Consider seeking a consultation at another medical facility. Thank you, and wishing you good health![Read More] Alternatives to Berkey: Managing Side Effects and Blood in Stool
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: When to See a Cardiologist
Rapid heartbeat Hello Doctor, my heart rate used to be around the 90s. There is a significant family history of heart disease. Since May of this year, my Apple Watch frequently alerts me that my heart rate exceeds 120 beats per minute, even though I work in an office and don’t fe...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Many factors in daily life can contribute to this condition, such as emotions, stress, irregular sleep patterns, or excessive intake of caffeinated beverages. It is advisable to adjust your lifestyle and engage in regular exercise. However, if symptoms persist, it is recommended ...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: When to See a Cardiologist
Managing Palpitations and Blood Pressure: Medication Concerns Explained
Medication issues related to palpitations? Hello Doctor, I have hyperthyroidism and have been taking one dose of anti-thyroid medication and one dose of a heart rhythm medication daily for the past three months. Sometimes I feel a bit fatigued. When I measure my blood pressure at...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, most people do not experience a decrease in blood pressure when taking heart rhythm medications, but individual responses can vary. It's difficult to say if your fatigue is due to low blood pressure; it's important to first understand what your blood pressure is ...[Read More] Managing Palpitations and Blood Pressure: Medication Concerns Explained
Understanding Arrhythmia: Concerns About Medication Dependency and Symptoms
Arrhythmia Recently, I have been experiencing a sensation of breathlessness and difficulty in speaking, as if my chest is tight. The ENT clinic recommended that I consult with a pulmonologist and a cardiologist. The pulmonologist indicated that my lung function tests were normal ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, medications do not cause dependency. If your arrhythmia episodes are infrequent, long-term medication may not be necessary. It's important not to put too much psychological pressure on yourself; do what makes you feel comfortable. If taking medication helps you feel b...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Concerns About Medication Dependency and Symptoms
Understanding Your Echocardiogram Report: Key Insights for Heart Failure Patients
Echocardiogram Report Hello Doctor, I have heart failure and have been experiencing frequent arrhythmias recently. The doctor arranged for a transthoracic echocardiogram. Could you please help me review the report? I would greatly appreciate it. **Echocardiogram Report Summary:...
Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: The examination results indicate left ventricular dilation and a slightly reduced ejection fraction (LVEF: 50%). There is mitral valve prolapse with mild to moderate mitral regurgitation. Mild tricuspid regurgitation and pulmonary valve insufficiency are also noted. There ...[Read More] Understanding Your Echocardiogram Report: Key Insights for Heart Failure Patients
Understanding Side Effects of Zulitor 4mg: A Patient's Experience
The side effects of Zulitor 4mg (4 mg film-coated tablets) may include: My grandfather has severe cardiovascular blockage and has previously had a stent placed. The doctor prescribed Zulitor 4 mg extended-release tablets, which he started taking on June 13. However, he began expe...
Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
The most common adverse reactions to Zulitor include muscle pain, back pain, diarrhea, constipation, and limb pain. It is recommended to consult a physician for a possible switch to other lipid-lowering medications.[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Zulitor 4mg: A Patient's Experience
Understanding Post-Exercise Heart Issues: Low Blood Pressure and Symptoms
Post-exercise bodily issues? I usually have a habit of running, hiking, and cycling. I have experienced palpitations and underwent an electrocardiogram and a 24-hour Holter monitor at a cardiology clinic, both of which were normal. My usual blood pressure is around 100-110/50-60 ...
Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, if all cardiac examinations are normal, there should be no issues; just monitor the situation. Is your blood pressure too low? Not everyone has the same blood pressure standards. If you usually feel fine, your blood pressure is likely acceptable. Just keep an eye on it. A ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Exercise Heart Issues: Low Blood Pressure and Symptoms