Understanding High Platelet Count and Urine Sugar Levels: Key Insights
I would like to inquire about issues related to platelets and urine glucose? Doctor, I would like to ask if my platelet count of 416 and PCT of 40, which are both elevated, could be related to my blood donation on October 20. My health check-up was on November 1. Additionally, I ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, Yu: 1. Elevated platelet count can be monitored again; if it remains high, you may consider seeing a hematologist. 2. Positive urine glucose indicates a potential risk for diabetes; you should consult with an endocrinologist to check for diabetes.[Read More] Understanding High Platelet Count and Urine Sugar Levels: Key Insights
Understanding Facial Numbness After Cheekbone Surgery: Next Steps
Zygomatic bone surgery? Hello Doctor, ten years ago I was in a car accident that resulted in fractures of my zygomatic bone and orbital bone. After surgery, titanium metal was placed in my zygomatic bone, and the nerve part healed on its own after six months. In recent years, I h...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Yao: 1. Based on the symptoms you described, it may be indicative of the distribution of the trigeminal nerve; its branches innervate the gums and the roots of the teeth. Any changes affecting the nerve distribution could lead to sensations of numbness or pain. 2. Of c...[Read More] Understanding Facial Numbness After Cheekbone Surgery: Next Steps
Understanding Nutcracker Syndrome: Seeking the Right Diagnosis and Treatment
Nutcracker Syndrome Hello Doctor: In June of this year, I went to the emergency room at Hospital A due to lower abdominal pain, and a CT scan suggested possible Nutcracker Syndrome. However, after undergoing a CTA scan at Hospital B, they said everything was fine. Yet, I continue...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Moon Star: 1. Nutcracker syndrome refers to a condition where the left renal vein is compressed between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery or other structures, leading to narrowing. It is akin to a nut being crushed. I apologize, but I do not have e...[Read More] Understanding Nutcracker Syndrome: Seeking the Right Diagnosis and Treatment
Understanding Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia in Blood Tests
Anemia issues Hello, Doctor. Here are my routine blood test results from my health check-up. I would like to ask whether I have iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. Additionally, if it is iron deficiency anemia, would you recommend intravenous iron supplementation? Would there ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, it is indeed possible that you have iron deficiency anemia. Supplementing with iron is not an issue; however, iron injections may raise concerns about allergic reactions. Given your recent test results, oral supplementation should suf...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia in Blood Tests
COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance for Dining Out: What You Need to Know
Regarding COVID-19? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BNT) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BNT) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know if I can go out to eat normall...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: There are actually no regulations on which vaccine you must receive in order to dine out normally. Currently, we are adopting a lifestyle that coexists with the virus. If you are concerned, it is advisable to wear a mask as much as possible. Regarding COVID-19, it is recom...[Read More] COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance for Dining Out: What You Need to Know
Managing Menstrual Pain: Safe Painkillers and Stomach Health Tips
Inquiring about whether painkiller ingredients harm the stomach & methods to alleviate menstrual pain? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I experience severe menstrual cramps almost every month, to the extent that I vomit if I drink water or eat anything (I previously consulted a gynecologist...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Chen: 1. I would like to inquire whether the following ingredients are harmful to the stomach: acetaminophen 500mg and the other excipients (the manufacturer did not specify the dosage): hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol 6000, sodium st...[Read More] Managing Menstrual Pain: Safe Painkillers and Stomach Health Tips
Understanding B12 Deficiency Testing: Key Considerations and Recommendations
Testing for Vitamin B12 Deficiency Hello Doctor: My sisters and I have Mediterranean anemia, and one of them has been a patient with SLE for over twenty years. Some of us have started to experience symptoms and have been informed that there may be a possibility of B12 deficiency....
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Vitamin B12 is related to the metabolism of homocysteine, and these two values are usually assessed together. It is recommended to visit a family medicine clinic for evaluation by a physician, who can arrange further medical services based on the test results. Please note that th...[Read More] Understanding B12 Deficiency Testing: Key Considerations and Recommendations
Understanding Increased Scrotal Hair Growth: Causes and Solutions
Within three to four months, the hair on the scrotum has developed in a manner resembling a patch of overgrown weeds? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have noticed that the hair on my genitals has become much denser than it was about three to four months ago or even longer. Specificall...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It is recommended to visit a urology clinic for evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Increased Scrotal Hair Growth: Causes and Solutions
Post-COVID Symptoms: Understanding Persistent Neurological Issues
Several symptoms appear after COVID-19? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with COVID-19 at the end of July, during which I experienced a loss of taste and smell, but they returned to normal after some time. One night during my COVID-19 illness, I woke up feeling something was off wi...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, Aurora: First, consult a neurologist to check for any nerve compression causing numbness. If there are no issues, then see a psychiatrist to evaluate for autonomic nervous system dysfunction (panic disorder).[Read More] Post-COVID Symptoms: Understanding Persistent Neurological Issues
Can You Take LAC MASQUELIER’s Pine Bark and Marigold Supplements on an Empty Stomach?
Nutritional supplement consultation Hello doctor, may I ask if LAC MASQUELIER’s® French Pine Bark Extract and the combination of Lutein Plus Astaxanthin from Marigold can be taken on an empty stomach? Or what is the recommended way to take them? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Please follow the recommended usage of the product. If you have any questions, please consult a nutrition clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Can You Take LAC MASQUELIER’s Pine Bark and Marigold Supplements on an Empty Stomach?
Which Specialist to See for Abdominal Pain and Back Issues?
I'm not sure which specialty to see? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing significant soreness in my lower back and abdomen, along with frequent feelings of nausea and dizziness. Additionally, I have a problem with numbness on the right side of my abdomen (the bou...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It is recommended to first visit the gastroenterology and hepatology clinic for evaluation to rule out any issues, and then proceed to the orthopedic clinic to confirm whether the symptoms are caused by a coccyx injury. Thank you.[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Abdominal Pain and Back Issues?
Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety
Drug interactions I have been taking duloxetine (Cymbalta) daily for nerve pain. Recently, I have a cold and ear pain and would like to take NSAIDs, but I read online that they should not be taken together. Should I avoid taking them for the entire day, or is there a specific tim...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Taking Duloxetine and NSAIDs together may increase the risk of bleeding, with gastrointestinal bleeding and skin bruising being more common, especially in patients who are older or have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or other chronic conditions (such as liver or kidn...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety
Accidental Ink Paste Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Ingestion of ink paste? Hello doctor, I need to use ink paste tonight for some reason. I didn't notice that I had some on my hands and started eating. Halfway through, I realized that I might have accidentally ingested a small amount along with the food. I would like to ask ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If only a small amount of ink was ingested, there is actually no need to worry too much. It is recommended to monitor for any gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms, and if any physical discomfort occurs, seek medical attention.[Read More] Accidental Ink Paste Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Can Blueberry Supplements Benefit Those with Kidney Issues and Ovarian Cysts?
Blueberry dietary supplements Hello doctor, I recently purchased blueberry capsules and would like to inquire whether commercially available blueberry supplements are suitable for individuals with weakened kidney function and those with gynecological cysts. Thank you.
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, Jia-Jun: Blueberries are generally considered a health food, as they are low in sodium, phosphorus, and calories. They also contain flavonoids, which can help stabilize hormones, making them less burdensome on the kidneys and beneficial for the management of chocolate cyst...[Read More] Can Blueberry Supplements Benefit Those with Kidney Issues and Ovarian Cysts?
Can You Fly with Heart Anxiety? Understanding Your Cardiac Health
Fear of flying due to heart problems? Hello Doctor, Below is the report from the previous cardiac examination, specifically the Ambulatory Holter ECG report: 1. The baseline ECG showed sinus rhythm with a heart rate ranging from 46 to 112 beats per minute (bpm). The average he...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear "Seeker of Help": 1. Since you have undergone so many detailed examinations, it is important to discuss with your attending physician whether your heart and lung functions are suitable for a two-hour flight. 2. Your concerns seem to lean more towards panic diso...[Read More] Can You Fly with Heart Anxiety? Understanding Your Cardiac Health
Accidental Ingestion of Lollipop Stick: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Ingestion of a plastic stick from a lollipop approximately 3 centimeters in length? Does a stick automatically cause bowel movements? If there has been no abdominal pain for about 10 hours, should I go to the hospital?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Miss JPJ: Ingesting a plastic stick from a lollipop approximately 3 centimeters in length raises concerns about the risk of gastrointestinal perforation or inflammation. It is advisable to seek medical attention for an examination to ensure safety. Wishing you good health a...[Read More] Accidental Ingestion of Lollipop Stick: When to Seek Medical Attention?
What to Eat Before Taking Medication on an Empty Stomach?
What foods should be consumed to line the stomach before taking medication? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if the medication I need to take is required to be taken after meals, but I am currently on an empty stomach and just want to eat something light to settle my stomach, ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! There are no specific restrictions in this regard, so it may be worth considering whether sweets have any impact on the existing condition.[Read More] What to Eat Before Taking Medication on an Empty Stomach?
Understanding Sudden Right-Sided Back Pain: Causes and Remedies
Right-sided lower back pain? Sudden pain in the right side of the back, making it difficult to lie down or sit. Walking is also challenging. I've experienced this before and have taken pain relievers and muscle relaxants, along with a sensation of warmth.
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! For acute pain, it is recommended that you seek treatment from an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Right-Sided Back Pain: Causes and Remedies
Understanding Full Body Heat: Causes and Concerns in Family Medicine
Fever or generalized warmth? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, my blood pressure suddenly rose to 190. After taking antihypertensive medication, it has decreased to 156. Now I feel a heat all over my body, and the area around my eyes feels extremely hot, almost like it's going t...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, Xiaofei: Please go to the emergency room to check for any infectious diseases that may be causing high blood pressure.[Read More] Understanding Full Body Heat: Causes and Concerns in Family Medicine
Understanding Flu Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Suspected influenza, symptoms include generalized weakness and fatigue? A family member began experiencing symptoms (cough, fever, body aches) starting on November 24. They went to the hospital for testing for influenza and COVID-19, both of which were negative. They were prescri...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if your symptoms do not improve, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnostic or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Flu Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help