Understanding Sleep Issues: Common Causes and Solutions for Better Rest
Sleep issues I'm not sure which specialty to ask, but I want to inquire about my sleep. I sleep for nine hours every day, but I still feel tired in the morning after waking up. I also use my phone before bed. Could this be affecting my sleep? Is there any illness associated ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: At your age, common factors that may affect sleep include hormonal imbalances, irregular lifestyle habits, stress, and anxiety, among others. Using your phone before bed may impact your ability to fall asleep, leading to poor sleep quality. It is recommended that you consu...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues: Common Causes and Solutions for Better Rest
Sudden Facial Swelling: Causes of Numbness Without Pain or Itching
A small area on the face suddenly swelled up, resembling a mosquito bite, but it is neither painful nor itchy, although it feels numb? Tonight after class, I suddenly noticed a small area on my left cheek that is red and swollen, but it doesn't hurt or itch. It feels a bit n...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Huang: 1. There is a sudden redness and swelling in a small area of your left cheek, which is not painful or itchy but feels numb. The differential diagnoses are numerous, including inflammatory reactions due to insect bites, follicular or sebaceous gland infections, l...[Read More] Sudden Facial Swelling: Causes of Numbness Without Pain or Itching
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: HDL Levels and Health Risks
The medical examination report shows results highlighted in red? Hello Doctor: Since I have reached the age of 40, I went to the clinic for a blood test. I received the report a few days ago. 1. The following values are highlighted in red: ★ High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, "high-density lipoprotein cholesterol" (HDL-C) is considered good cholesterol. The normal range for women is >50 mg/dL. If the value is low, it indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. In general, physicians should recommend how often to follow u...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: HDL Levels and Health Risks
Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Flattened Tissue Concerns
After wisdom tooth extraction, the swelling in the cheek transforms into a flat, pancake-like tissue? Hello, Director Hsiao. Three months ago, I underwent surgery to extract my lower right wisdom tooth. After the extraction, my right cheek was significantly swollen. One month pos...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Yi: 1. I recommend that you have a thorough discussion with your attending physician, as they are most familiar with your overall condition and treatment process. 2. Based on your description, it is possible that an infection or abscess developed after the extraction o...[Read More] Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Flattened Tissue Concerns
Facial Symptoms: When to See a Neurologist or Family Doctor?
Facial issues On the first day, my left eye felt very sore and would tear up intermittently. On the second day, I started experiencing pain behind my ear. When I smile, my mouth noticeably tilts to the right, and when I drink liquids, they spill out. I also make a clicking sound ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your physical discomfort may be related to issues such as a stroke, nerve compression and inflammation, facial nerve palsy, or temporomandibular joint disorders, among others. It is recommended that you first consult a neurologist.[Read More] Facial Symptoms: When to See a Neurologist or Family Doctor?
Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Swelling and Calcification
Is it possible for the swelling after wisdom tooth extraction to calcify so quickly, within 3 to 4 months? Hello Dr. Lin, I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted three months ago. After the extraction, my right cheek was significantly swollen. A month later, I was referred to...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The flat, pancake-shaped, and somewhat hard area on your right cheek is likely a result of soft tissue fibrosis caused by a previous inflammatory infection, somewhat similar to scar tissue. As for whether there is calcification or other issues, further medical examination ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Swelling and Calcification
Should You Get a Rabies Vaccine After Animal Saliva Exposure?
If you suspect that animal saliva from a zoo animal has come into contact with your eyes, should you receive a rabies vaccine? Five days ago, while taking photos at the Taipei Zoo, I felt a liquid suddenly touch the corner of my eye while photographing an animal (likely a type of...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Animals in the zoo generally undergo regular health check-ups, so the likelihood of contracting rabies is low, and there should be no concern about the transmission of rabies.[Read More] Should You Get a Rabies Vaccine After Animal Saliva Exposure?
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice
Persistent low-grade fever Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about my body temperature. Since this past Monday, my temperature has been fluctuating around 37.5 degrees Celsius, with a maximum of 37.7 and a minimum of 37.1. Most of the time, it is between 37.4 and 37.6. I am ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, according to the records, your temperature is indeed slightly elevated. If it does not improve, it is advisable to visit the Infectious Disease Clinic for further evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot pr...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Back pain Hello, I am a male, and I noticed about two days ago that I experience significant pain in the middle area below my shoulder blade when I take a deep breath. I also feel pain when I rotate my body to the left or right. I would like to know what the issue might be and wh...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Sam: For injuries to the scapular ligament or muscle fibers, please consult a rehabilitation specialist or an orthopedic doctor.[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Is It Normal for Toes to Wrinkle and Leave Imprints After Wearing Shoes?
Is it normal for toes to have indentations or wrinkles after wearing shoes and socks? Hello Doctor: Thank you for taking the time to read this. Recently, I have noticed that after wearing socks and sneakers for a while, my toes become wrinkled or show indentations from the socks....
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin, Thank you for your message. You mentioned that your toes have been wrinkled or have impressions from your socks after wearing them for a while. This may be due to your feet being confined in the socks for too long, leading to a humid and non-breathable environment ...[Read More] Is It Normal for Toes to Wrinkle and Leave Imprints After Wearing Shoes?
Understanding Increased Belly Button Discharge: When to Seek Help
There are small growths in the belly button? Recently, I have noticed an increase in discharge from my navel, which includes white pus and serous fluid. However, I do not experience any abdominal pain or discomfort. During a health check at the end of June, my stool test showed n...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it seems to be a skin abscess. You can visit a dermatologist or a general surgeon for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Increased Belly Button Discharge: When to Seek Help
Persistent Dizziness and Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Dizziness, vomiting, and persistent upper abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I visited the clinic due to dizziness, chills, and general weakness. The doctor mentioned that I was showing symptoms of an impending cold and prescribed medication for cold and fever. After ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
If you have not recovered after medication treatment or have developed new symptoms, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for the physician's evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Persistent Dizziness and Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Frequent Yawning: Causes and When to Seek Help
I have been yawning frequently in the past few days? I would like to ask about a recent experience where I've been feeling the urge to yawn unexpectedly for about 3 to 4 days, regardless of the time of day (sometimes even while showering at night). Occasionally, this is acco...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Xiangyang: 1. There are many reasons for frequent yawning, with common causes including stroke, cardiovascular diseases, oral or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) disorders, and kidney diseases. It could also be due to fatigue, substance addiction, caffeine dependence, or sl...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Yawning: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Body Temperature: Is It Fever or Just Normal Variation?
Elevated body temperature? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a body temperature ranging from around 37.5 degrees Celsius since this past Monday, with a low of 37.1 and a high of 37.7. My usual temperature is about 37.3 to 37.6. I also have symptoms of sweaty palms and feet, ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you seek medical treatment at a healthcare facility.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Body Temperature: Is It Fever or Just Normal Variation?
Understanding Dry Heaving and Nausea: Stress or Something More?
Dry heaving, vomiting, stress? Hello Doctor, I am a recent graduate preparing for the national exam. Recently, I have been experiencing worsening nausea and dry heaving, so I am inquiring online. The situation is as follows: about three years ago, I choked on toothpaste while bru...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to first consult a gastroenterologist to assess whether there are any abnormalities in gastrointestinal function. If those concerns are ruled out and the issue is related to anxiety, it is advisable to seek assistance from a psychiatrist. Changhua Hospita...[Read More] Understanding Dry Heaving and Nausea: Stress or Something More?
Disrupted Circadian Rhythm: Tips for Better Sleep Patterns
Circadian rhythm disruption is suspected? Hello Doctor: Recently, due to summer vacation, I have been going to bed very late, around midnight and sleeping until about noon. However, in the past week, I have noticed that I am experiencing light sleep at night, waking up several ti...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Adjusting your daily routine requires perseverance and determination. It is recommended to open the curtains to let the morning sunlight into your bedroom. During the day, try to schedule self-study and exercise as much as possible. It's important to keep a consistent...[Read More] Disrupted Circadian Rhythm: Tips for Better Sleep Patterns
Managing Blood Sugar and Kidney Health: A Patient's Journey
Blood Sugar and Kidney Issues Hello doctor, a month ago my fasting blood glucose was 127, and my HbA1c was 7.2. The doctor prescribed medication for me, but I was advised not to take it. Instead, I focused on exercising and changing my diet, and my fasting blood glucose has mostl...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The decrease in your glomerular filtration rate may be due to diabetic nephropathy or other factors causing kidney damage (such as dehydration, use of pain medications, etc.). It is recommended that you see a nephrologist as soon as possible for further evaluation of the u...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar and Kidney Health: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Drug Interactions: Can Paxlovid Affect Your Current Medications?
Drug interactions Excuse me, doctor. I would like to ask if the following medications I am taking will interact with the antiviral medication Paxlovid. Do I need to stop taking them? I take Xanax (alprazolam) 0.25 mg daily, propranolol 10 mg, nebivolol 5 mg, and Tylenol (acetamin...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Among the four medications you are currently taking, only Alprazolam has a potential drug interaction with the antiviral medication Paxlovid. It is important to monitor whether there is an increase in the sedative effects of Alprazolam. If the dosage of Alprazolam is very ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Can Paxlovid Affect Your Current Medications?
Are Undercooked Sausages Safe? Understanding Parasite Risks and Solutions
Suspected undercooked sausage? Hello Doctor, I recently cooked the microwave sausages from 7-Eleven, but due to my lack of experience, I couldn't determine if they were fully cooked. I found online that there might be concerns about parasites and other issues. I would like t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Tim: 1. I apologize; I am not aware of the detailed manufacturing process of the "7-11 microwave sausage," so I cannot determine the possibility of parasitic infections or the presence of eggs. In our country, over the past few decades, there have been very fe...[Read More] Are Undercooked Sausages Safe? Understanding Parasite Risks and Solutions
Does Sleeping Only 3-4 Hours a Night Affect Your Health?
Sleeping only three to four hours a day can have significant negative effects on the body. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a range of health issues, including impaired cognitive function, weakened immune response, increased risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabet...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, the normal sleep duration for your age is 7-9 hours. Therefore, your current sleep time is actually insufficient, and reduced sleep duration may accelerate brain aging and the degeneration of other bodily organs. If you do not have any specific discomfo...[Read More] Does Sleeping Only 3-4 Hours a Night Affect Your Health?