Does Weight Loss Affect PLT and Hb Levels in Young Adults?
Does weight loss lead to a decrease in platelet count (PLT) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels? Hello Dr. Liu, I am 20 years old and 172 cm tall. Six months ago, I weighed about 79 kg. Over the past six months, I have worked hard to lose weight (mainly through exercise and diet, without ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Hao: Weight loss can affect hemoglobin and platelet levels, but this varies from person to person. A decrease in platelets may be caused by a reduction in adipose tissue and changes in certain internal factors. A decrease in hemoglobin may result from nutritional defici...[Read More] Does Weight Loss Affect PLT and Hb Levels in Young Adults?
Can You Swim with Paronychia? Healing Time and Care Tips
Can I swim with paronychia? I recently had an ingrown toenail treated, and the hospital removed the entire toenail because I had ingrown toenails on both the inner and outer sides. This was done on June 16. I would like to know how long it will take before I can get the wound wet...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ka: 1. Since each person's condition and disease situation is different, it is best to direct your questions to your attending surgeon. 2. Generally speaking, because it is an open wound and lacks the protection of nails, the skin barrier against bacteria is very th...[Read More] Can You Swim with Paronychia? Healing Time and Care Tips
Do I Have Sleepwalking Disorder? Understanding My Symptoms
Do I have narcolepsy? I fell asleep around 11 AM this morning and woke up at about 5 PM, but my father said I got up at 1 PM, walked out of my room, and talked to him, which I have no recollection of. Additionally, every time I fall asleep in a chair or while leaning on the table...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Narcolepsy typically does not require medication treatment. It is important to avoid triggers that can activate symptoms and to strengthen environmental preventive measures. If you experience sleep disturbances or have questions, it is recommended to consult a sleep specia...[Read More] Do I Have Sleepwalking Disorder? Understanding My Symptoms
Can You Still Get Tetanus After Wounds Have Healed?
Is it still possible to contract tetanus after a wound has scabbed over or healed? A few days ago, I accidentally cut myself while shaving in the bathroom, resulting in several wounds. However, they are not very deep. I later noticed that the razor was a bit rusty. Given that the...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. The incubation period for Clostridium tetani is approximately 2 to 14 days; however, most cases manifest symptoms around 3 to 6 days. 2. Tetanus bacteria are classified as anaerobic; due to the good blood circulation in the face, the risk of infection is low if your wound is s...[Read More] Can You Still Get Tetanus After Wounds Have Healed?
Should You Worry About Rabies or Tetanus After a Stray Dog Attack?
If attacked by a stray dog, should I be concerned about rabies or tetanus? Hello doctor, I was recently attacked by a stray dog in a rural area of Chiayi, resulting in multiple small wounds that are not bleeding but have broken skin and redness. I have already washed the wounds, ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, bite wounds should be properly treated immediately, and then evaluated by a physician to determine if relevant vaccinations are necessary. The results of rabies surveillance can be referenced from the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine. Please note...[Read More] Should You Worry About Rabies or Tetanus After a Stray Dog Attack?
Understanding Hand and Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor
Hand and foot issues? Hello, doctor. I experience pain when pressing down on the first joints of both hands. My fingers, palms, wrists, and the backs of my hands sometimes feel tight. The pads of my index and middle fingers also hurt. Additionally, my left foot feels numb from th...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you first visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Hand and Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor
Is It Safe to Boil Water with the Lid On? Health Implications Explained
The issue of boiling water? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if keeping the lid on after boiling water, without allowing the steam to escape, could have any adverse effects on the human body? Recently, there have been many small flies in my home, and after boiling water, I am af...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The purpose of opening the lid is to allow harmful gases to escape. When residual chlorine in water is heated, it can produce a carcinogenic gas—trichloromethane—which increases our risk of diseases or cancer. It is recommended to continue simmering the water for 2-3 minut...[Read More] Is It Safe to Boil Water with the Lid On? Health Implications Explained
Understanding Rabies Vaccine: Risks of Incomplete Dosing and Long-Term Effects
If a person receives a rabies vaccine but does not complete the full series, will it prolong the incubation period for rabies? Hello, Doctor. About 20 years ago, when I was around 7 years old, I was bitten by a monkey in Southeast Asia. I understand that after such a long time, r...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Receiving the rabies vaccine does not extend the incubation period of rabies. 2. Receiving multiple doses of the rabies vaccine does not convert it into pre-exposure prophylaxis. 3. Currently, the main medications that may affect the efficacy of the rabies vaccine are i...[Read More] Understanding Rabies Vaccine: Risks of Incomplete Dosing and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Weight and Gastrointestinal Issues in Young Adults
Weight issues, gastrointestinal problems? I am 156 cm tall and underweight, and I don't know why my weight has not been increasing. My appetite hasn't changed; in February, I weighed between 46-47 kg, and at the beginning of March, I was still around 46-47 kg. However, ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, if you feel unwell, please visit a family medicine or gastroenterology clinic for evaluation. For dietary management, you can consult a nutritionist at the nutrition counseling clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Weight and Gastrointestinal Issues in Young Adults
Understanding Frequent Dizziness: Causes and Connections to Diet and Hydration
Frequent dizziness? What could be the reason for my frequent dizziness? Is it low blood pressure or autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Sometimes I feel dizzy after eating a full meal; could this be related to my low water intake? Can drinking very little water cause dizziness?...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Xiaohua: Common causes of dizziness in males include: 1. Hypotension: This refers to blood pressure that is lower than normal levels. 2. Anemia: Acute or chronic anemia can lead to fatigue and dizziness. 3. Prolonged standing: Blood may pool in the lower extremities, re...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Dizziness: Causes and Connections to Diet and Hydration
Understanding Leg Cramps and Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions
Muscle cramps and ear congestion? Frequent nighttime calf cramps may indicate a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as potassium, magnesium, or calcium. It is advisable to consult a physician, preferably a primary care doctor or a neurologist, for further evaluation. Regarding...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Calf cramps may be related to a deficiency in electrolytes (sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium) and vitamins (B vitamins, D). Additionally, it may be associated with blood sugar levels, liver function, and kidney function. It is recommended to consult a family medici...[Read More] Understanding Leg Cramps and Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Weight Fluctuations and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Slight recovery after weight loss? Hello, doctor. About a month ago, I weighed approximately 63.3 kg, but I don't weigh myself often and only do so occasionally. This morning, after waking up, I found that my weight had dropped to 60.4 kg. Previously, I had also seen my weig...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, Xiao Lin: A weight loss of 3% in one month, 5% in three months, and over 10% in six months is considered significant. Given your age, first consider whether it might be due to poor gastrointestinal intake or absorption issues, or check your thyroid function and blood gluco...[Read More] Understanding Weight Fluctuations and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Morning Saliva Discoloration: Causes and Health Implications
Waking up with yellow saliva? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed that when I wake up in the morning, my saliva is yellowish. I'm not quite sure if it has a bitter taste. After I brush my teeth and drink water, this issue disappears. Could this be related to liver, gallbl...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it is possible that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended to follow a light diet and avoid overeating. If symptoms persist, please consult a gastroenterologist.[Read More] Morning Saliva Discoloration: Causes and Health Implications
Unexplained Weight Loss: Possible Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Unexplained weight loss? Hello Doctor, about six months ago during my health check-up, I weighed approximately 66 kilograms. Over the past six months, I haven't made any significant changes to my diet or increased my physical activity. My meals typically consist of two a day...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The weight loss may be due to gastritis leading to poor absorption. Please also estimate your caloric intake to see if it is lower than your daily caloric needs; if so, this could contribute to weight loss. Gastrointestinal discomfort and loss of appetite may be symptoms o...[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss: Possible Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Do You Need to Clean Up? Essential Hygiene Tips for Everyday Situations
Is cleaning necessary? Hello, Doctor. 1. If I share a phone or other items with someone who is wearing makeup, should I remove my makeup? 2. If the hairstylist is wearing makeup and during the haircut, they inevitably touch my neck or other areas, should I remove my makeup, or ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Here are the answers to your questions: 1. Yes, you can choose gentle makeup removal products. 2. No, regular cleansing is sufficient. 3. Yes, clothes can be washed normally. 4. Yes, clothes can be washed normally.[Read More] Do You Need to Clean Up? Essential Hygiene Tips for Everyday Situations
Chronic Insomnia, Weight Loss, and Poor Appetite: Seeking Medical Advice
Long-term insomnia, significant weight loss, and poor appetite issues? Hello Doctor, for the past two years, I have been unable to sleep more than three hours a night before waking up and being unable to fall back asleep. I have consulted various psychiatrists and have tried almo...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you visit a family medicine clinic.[Read More] Chronic Insomnia, Weight Loss, and Poor Appetite: Seeking Medical Advice
Understanding and Managing Severe Foot Pain in the Elderly
Grandfather's foot pain issue? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my grandfather who has been experiencing severe foot pain recently. Initially, he mentioned that his foot had been hurting for a month, and he thought he could just endure it. Eventually, he couldn't...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, Sisi: According to the information provided, it seems that you are currently experiencing pain near the left foot's dorsum close to the ankle. An orthopedic examination with X-rays indicated that the bones appear normal, but there is some degeneration. Additionally, t...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Severe Foot Pain in the Elderly
Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Dizziness and a feeling of heaviness in the head? Hello! I have been experiencing dizziness frequently for over a week. The sensation feels like a heavy head and light legs, with scattered attention and fatigue, somewhat similar to motion sickness, but not the spinning sensation ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your dizziness is likely due to anemia. If the cause of your previous iron deficiency anemia, such as chronic blood loss, was not identified (common causes at your age include heavy menstrual bleeding and gastrointestinal bleeding), it is easy for the anemia to recur after...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Sudden Spike in Blood Sugar: Possible Causes and Concerns
Sudden increase in blood sugar levels? On the afternoon of June 11, I experienced urethral pain and went to the hospital's emergency department. The doctor arranged for blood tests and urinalysis, which generally showed no significant issues, but my blood glucose level was m...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
There are many reasons that can cause elevated blood sugar levels, including diet, lifestyle habits, stress, inflammation, infections, and medications. It is recommended to continue monitoring and follow up at the outpatient clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Sudden Spike in Blood Sugar: Possible Causes and Concerns
Consultation on Stomach Medications for Aspirin Users
Gastrointestinal medication consultation? Hello, my mother previously took aspirin and Kangsulong. When she was taking aspirin, she was also prescribed Famotidine for her stomach. Later, due to increased use of Kangsulong, her stomach medication was changed to Pantoprazole. I wou...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Taking Aspirin and Prednisolone together can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort as a side effect, so it is usually recommended to take a gastric protective agent alongside. However, even when taking Aspirin alone, gastrointestinal discomfort can occur, which is why it is ...[Read More] Consultation on Stomach Medications for Aspirin Users