Understanding Drug Interactions: Terbinafine, Avodart, and Smoking Cessation Medications
Drug interactions I have onychomycosis and underwent liver function tests at the hospital, which came back normal. The doctor prescribed Terbinafine, to be taken once a day. I would like to inquire about potential drug interactions between this medication and the prostate medicat...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! You can inquire at the consultation window on the medication bag or ask your original treating physician during your follow-up visit. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Terbinafine, Avodart, and Smoking Cessation Medications
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please ask your question? Hello doctor, I felt some discomfort in my abdomen while having a bowel movement. At first, it was formed, but then it became somewhat watery. I tried to push to clear it out, but later some sticky, mucus-like substance came out (and the stool was a bit ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Niko: 1. Stool is a mixture of undigested food remnants, digestive juices, and secretions that remain after the digestion and absorption of food through the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 1,500 c.c. of chyme, which is a semi-liquid substance digested by digestive...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Blood Test Results: When to Follow Up with Your Doctor
Blood disorders Hello Dr. Hsiao, I previously visited the clinic due to allergic cough, which showed slight improvement. Later, I went to a large hospital's pulmonology department, where the doctor indicated that it was triggered by allergies. Blood tests were conducted, an...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Ms. Emily: Your concerns are valid; please return to your primary physician's clinic for inquiries! Essentially, the diagnosis of diseases is primarily clinical, with laboratory tests serving as supplementary. I believe the diagnosis and management by your pulmonologist are ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: When to Follow Up with Your Doctor
Do I Need More COVID Vaccines After My Previous Doses?
Regarding the COVID-19 vaccine? 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 need to get v...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Due to the continuous mutations of the COVID-19 virus, new vaccines are being developed to address the emerging variants. Typically, these new vaccines are expected to provide better protection against the currently circulating strains of the COVID-19 virus compared to old...[Read More] Do I Need More COVID Vaccines After My Previous Doses?
Is My Low Diastolic Blood Pressure Normal? A Young Adult's Concern
My diastolic blood pressure seems to be very low; I wonder if this is normal? Hello Dr. Liu, I am 20 years old and currently a junior in college. Since childhood, my diastolic blood pressure and hemoglobin levels have been on the lower side. The values are as follows: in seventh ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Yang: The normal blood pressure range for adults is a systolic pressure of 110-140 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of around 70-90 mmHg. Regarding hemoglobin levels, the normal range for males in our hospital is 13-17.5 g/dL, so the hemoglobin levels mentioned above shoul...[Read More] Is My Low Diastolic Blood Pressure Normal? A Young Adult's Concern
How Long to Wait After COVID-19 to Get the Flu Vaccine?
Administering the influenza vaccine? Hello doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 in early August. If I want to receive the flu vaccine, is there a recommended waiting period? Thank you.
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! You can receive the vaccination as soon as your health condition improves, without any waiting period.[Read More] How Long to Wait After COVID-19 to Get the Flu Vaccine?
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Elevated Calcium Levels Mean
Regarding blood test reports? Hello doctor, I recently had a routine health check-up that included a blood test, and the calcium level in my electrolyte analysis was reported as 10.4, which is highlighted in red. When I asked the doctor, they mentioned it was not a major concern ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsu: The normal range for serum calcium ions in our hospital is 8.9-10.3 mg/dL, but there may be slight variations depending on the laboratory equipment used. A level of 10.4 mg/dL is only 0.1 mg/dL above the normal range; however, as long as serum calcium is below 12-1...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Elevated Calcium Levels Mean
Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Persistent low-grade fever that won't subside? I have been experiencing a low-grade fever for a week now. My temperature in the morning before work is 37.2°C, but it rises to 37.7°C after I start working, with a maximum recorded temperature of 37.9°C. In the evening, it drop...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you have a persistent low-grade fever for a week, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause. Based on the symptoms you described, it is more likely to be an infection (such as viral or bacterial). Psychogenic issues are generally considered only ...[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Can I Take Hiros Capsules on an Empty Stomach Before Bed?
Medication consultation I would like to ask if "Yongsheng" Hiros extended-release micro-particle capsules can be taken on an empty stomach before bedtime, or should they only be taken after meals? Will taking them on an empty stomach harm the stomach? Additionally, I wo...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: "Yongsheng" Xi Luo extended-release micro-particle capsules contain two active ingredients: Cetirizine and Pseudoephedrine. - Cetirizine is an antihistamine primarily used to relieve runny nose. Possible side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth...[Read More] Can I Take Hiros Capsules on an Empty Stomach Before Bed?
Understanding Stage 1 Hypertension: Why Diet and Exercise May Not Help
Stage 1 hypertension: Exercise and reducing salt intake don't seem to be effective? Last month, I discovered that my systolic blood pressure reached the 130s, approaching 140, which exceeds the standard of 130/85. Consequently, I started following general recommendations by ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
You can follow the 722 principle by regularly measuring your blood pressure and recording it. When visiting a doctor, provide these records for reference. There may be differences in blood pressure readings between your left and right arms; please use the higher reading as the pr...[Read More] Understanding Stage 1 Hypertension: Why Diet and Exercise May Not Help
High Segmented Neutrophils and Low Lymphocytes: What You Need to Know
Elevated neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes? Hello Dr. Hsiao, my health report shows elevated segmented neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes. The percentage of segmented neutrophils is H 75.4, while the standard range is 40.0 - 74.0. The percentage of lymphocytes is L 18.8, w...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Kuo: 1. Please pay attention to your health examination report; do you have any recommendations regarding this matter? 2. The percentage of segmented leukocytes in the total white blood cell count is slightly elevated, which may sometimes be a transient variation and sho...[Read More] High Segmented Neutrophils and Low Lymphocytes: What You Need to Know
Understanding Your Teen's Health: Urine Changes and Skin Yellowing Concerns
Which direction should be examined? My son is 17 years old and is currently working part-time as an electrical and plumbing apprentice. Recently, he asked me to take him for a check-up due to the following concerns: 1. His urine has a stronger odor (ammonia-like), but it is still...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Dear Mr. Rui, Hello. The four data points in your letter did not include the normal reference ranges, but they are within the normal range compared to general laboratory standards. Given the concerns about dehydration and the suspicion of jaundice, you may want to visit a family...[Read More] Understanding Your Teen's Health: Urine Changes and Skin Yellowing Concerns
Understanding Bubble Urine: Drug Interactions and Possible Causes
Multiple medication consultation + unexplained foamy urine? Are there any interactions between the following medications: doxycycline, diastase, gascon, escitalopram, fludiazepam, lutein, and probiotics? Additionally, I have been experiencing foamy urine since last month, which p...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The presence of bubbles in urine can be tested to check for proteinuria or glycosuria. Additionally, concentrated urine may also produce bubbles, or the mixing of urine with substances in the toilet could cause this as well. If there is no proteinuria or glycosuria, there ...[Read More] Understanding Bubble Urine: Drug Interactions and Possible Causes
Does Cardiovascular Medication Increase Heat Stroke Risk?
Does taking cardiovascular medications increase the risk of heat stroke? Hello Dr. Lin, in 2015, I was diagnosed with left coronary artery atherosclerosis. In 2020, due to atrial fibrillation, I underwent two catheter ablation procedures. Since then, I have been taking five medic...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The medications you are taking that are more likely to cause discomfort in your body include: - Isosorbide Dinitrate: Its primary function is vasodilation, and it may cause side effects such as dizziness, palpitations, and hypotension, among others. - Propafeno...[Read More] Does Cardiovascular Medication Increase Heat Stroke Risk?
Affordable DNA Testing for Paternity: Costs and Options Explained
Blood relationship DNA Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the cheapest cost for a paternity DNA test. Where can I get the DNA test done? For accuracy, besides hair, what other samples can be used for DNA testing?
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, our hospital currently does not offer this test. You may inquire at large medical centers in the Changhua area. Regarding the costs, you can also check if the specimen can be suitable for oral mucosa (cells from the mucosal lining on both sides of the mouth, without chewin...[Read More] Affordable DNA Testing for Paternity: Costs and Options Explained
Is Fish Oil Safe for My Son's Platelet Levels? Expert Insights
Is this platelet condition suitable for taking fish oil? Hello Dr. Liu, my son (who is 21 years old) has had platelet counts (PLT) ranging from 210 to 240 (10^3/μl) from elementary school through college health check-ups. Recently, I would like him to take three fish oil capsules...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Zheng: The normal range for human platelets is 150,000 to 450,000/μl. According to the recommendations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the safe and reliable daily intake of fish oil for the general population is between 2000 to 3000 milligrams of EPA a...[Read More] Is Fish Oil Safe for My Son's Platelet Levels? Expert Insights
Understanding Thumb Joint Pain: Could It Be Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The finger joints are tight and painful? A couple of days ago, I suddenly felt pain in the joint of my left thumb. After that, the pain subsided, but a dark bruise-like discoloration appeared. In the evening, I noticed that pressing on the joint was painful, but now the dark colo...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Puzi: Your letter mentions that you have suddenly experienced pain in the joint of your left thumb, along with the appearance of dark bruising for some time. This presentation of acute inflammation in a single joint is not typical of rheumatoid arthritis; it is more likely ...[Read More] Understanding Thumb Joint Pain: Could It Be Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Low-Dose CT Scans for Lung Health: Essential Insights for Families
Low-dose computed tomography of the lungs? Your questions: Hello Doctor, my parents are currently 50 years old and have worked in a CNC factory for 30 years, inhaling industrial oil vapors and exhaust gases. Although the factory has ventilation, I would like to ask the doctor a f...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your questions: 1. Would you recommend scheduling a low-dose lung CT scan? --> Currently, the primary tool for screening lung tumors or nodules is regular low-dose lung CT scans. Since this is considered a self-screening measure, it is typically done on a sel...[Read More] Low-Dose CT Scans for Lung Health: Essential Insights for Families
Can Shower Water Inhalation Lead to Amoebic Infection Risks?
Accidentally inhaling tap water while showering? Hello doctor, recently while taking a shower at home, I accidentally tilted my head back and inhaled tap water. I've been hearing a lot about amoebic parasites lately. Could you please tell me if inhaling tap water while showe...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Currently, water treatment plants in Taiwan commonly add chlorine gas to disinfect and kill pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and amoebic protozoa. Therefore, using tap water generally does not pose a risk of amoebic protozoan infection, unless contaminated water source...[Read More] Can Shower Water Inhalation Lead to Amoebic Infection Risks?
Low-Dose CT Scans for Lung Health: Key Considerations for Patients
Low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs? Your questions: Hello doctor, my parents are currently 50 years old and have worked in a CNC factory for 30 years, inhaling industrial oil mist and exhaust gases. Although the factory has ventilation, I would like to ask the do...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Currently, low-dose computed tomography (CT) of the lungs is the recommended screening tool for pulmonary nodules. It is not yet covered by health insurance, but there is an "Early Lung Cancer Detection Program" available. You can consult with participating medic...[Read More] Low-Dose CT Scans for Lung Health: Key Considerations for Patients