Rabies Vaccine Coverage for Dog Bites Abroad: What You Need to Know
Dog bite injury abroad? If someone is bitten by a dog abroad and wishes to receive rabies vaccination, can they qualify for health insurance coverage?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you are bitten by a dog in a rabies-endemic area abroad, you can go to an international vaccination center or the health bureau of outlying islands for a free rabies vaccination after evaluation by a physician. It is important to receive the vaccine on days 0, 3, 7, 14,...[Read More] Rabies Vaccine Coverage for Dog Bites Abroad: What You Need to Know
Persistent Dizziness and Tremors After a Month of Cold: What to Do?
Experiencing dizziness and shaking one month after a cold? Hello doctor, I have had a cold for a month, and now the only symptoms left are dizziness and shaking. I feel dizzy all day, and my body shakes when I work. I have a history of favism and hypertension. I would like to ask...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you are experiencing dizziness and shaking a month after having a cold, it is advisable to seek medical attention for peace of mind. It is recommended to first visit a family medicine clinic.[Read More] Persistent Dizziness and Tremors After a Month of Cold: What to Do?
Do Seladin and Labtal Cause Low Blood Pressure? A Doctor's Insight
Medication consultation Hello, doctor. I would like to ask whether the medications Seladin and Labtal can cause a decrease in blood pressure. My blood pressure was already low, and it has become even lower after taking them. This issue has been troubling me for a long time. Thank...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, labtal is available, but seladin is not.[Read More] Do Seladin and Labtal Cause Low Blood Pressure? A Doctor's Insight
Effects of Sodium Percarbonate on Health: Safety Concerns and Risks
What are the effects of sodium bicarbonate on the body? I read online that sodium carbonate is very effective for cleaning tea stains, so I used it on several cups. The cleaning effect was indeed minimal, but afterwards, I felt a bit unwell, especially noticing a lot of bubbles i...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Sodium percarbonate is a strong alkaline substance and is not intended for consumption, so there is no food-grade sodium percarbonate. Although the substances produced from its decomposition are natural, its oxidizing effects and the gases released during chemical reaction...[Read More] Effects of Sodium Percarbonate on Health: Safety Concerns and Risks
Understanding Blood Test Results for Mediterranean Anemia Screening
Blood Test Report Recently, due to company requirements for a health check, I also had a blood test to check for thalassemia. I would like to ask the doctor if this is normal. Thank you. Blood test report: Serum iron: 98.7 µg/dL, TIBC: 399 µg/dL, Ferritin: 99.8 µg/L, Hb-A1: 95.5%...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, the report appears to be normal. If you have any concerns, please consult a medical institution.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results for Mediterranean Anemia Screening
Which Procedure Should Come First: Brain Aneurysm or Joint Replacement?
Which procedure should be performed first: brain aneurysm treatment or joint replacement surgery? Hello, my mother has moderate hearing loss and long-term tinnitus. Recently, she showed signs of possible dementia, so we took her to the hospital for examination. An MRI revealed a ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Mimi: Life-threatening conditions need to be addressed first. If the neurosurgeon does not take immediate action, there may be significant risks involved in making a decision.[Read More] Which Procedure Should Come First: Brain Aneurysm or Joint Replacement?
How Long Does It Take to Get Lymphoma Pathology Results?
How long does it take to receive a gonorrhea pathology report? Hello Doctor, my mother had sudden swelling under her left neck above the clavicle on May 10, with two palpable lumps that are not painful. She visited a doctor 10 days later, and an ultrasound examination revealed mu...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the process for pathological examinations may vary slightly between hospitals. It is advisable to return to the outpatient clinic of the surgeon who performed your operation and discuss with your attending physician. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person vis...[Read More] How Long Does It Take to Get Lymphoma Pathology Results?
Understanding Belly Button Issues: Pain and Redness After Infection
Umbilical issues I was diagnosed with pneumonia yesterday. Last night, I was too idle and picked at my belly button. After that, I cleaned it with alcohol, and it hurt a little, feeling like it might break the skin. This morning, I noticed a small red area around my belly button,...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your condition is umbilical inflammation. If the umbilicus continues to be red, swollen, hot, and painful without improvement, there is a concern that it may progress to cellulitis, so it is advisable to seek medical treatment immediately.[Read More] Understanding Belly Button Issues: Pain and Redness After Infection
Understanding Gallbladder Calcification: Risks and Treatment Options
Gallbladder calcification Hello, doctor. My sister went to the hospital due to abdominal and back pain, and the doctor mentioned that there is calcification around her gallbladder. Is this porcelain gallbladder? Does porcelain gallbladder indicate gallbladder cancer? She is only ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Gallbladder wall calcification is known as porcelain gallbladder, which has a high risk of associated gallbladder cancer. Since your sister is already experiencing abdominal pain, it is recommended to perform a cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder. A biopsy will be ne...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Calcification: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Red Flags in Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Red text on blood test results? Hello, doctor. Recently, I went to the emergency room due to back pain, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. I had blood tests and a chest X-ray done. The emergency physician diagnosed me with muscle inflammation, and the X-ray of my heart and...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your blood test report indicates microcytic anemia and elevated platelet count, which may be related to iron deficiency anemia. In women, iron deficiency anemia is more commonly caused by chronic bleeding due to heavy menstrual flow. Additionally, gastrointestinal bleeding...[Read More] Understanding Red Flags in Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis Risks During Blood Tests
Concerns about HIV infection? Hello, doctor. I recently went to a nearby clinic for an adult health check-up, and during the blood draw, I noticed that the nurse did not use a new syringe, although the needle was newly unwrapped. Could this lead to an infection with HIV or hepati...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ashan: 1. I do not understand your statement. Generally, needles and syringes are often packaged together and opened for use. It is also possible that a single needle is opened and then used to draw blood from various vacuum tubes one by one. What you observed might be ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis Risks During Blood Tests
COVID-19 Symptoms or Autonomic Nervous System Disorder?
Is it a symptom of the confirmed diagnosis or is there an additional complication of autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Hello, doctor. I would like to explain that I am experiencing a second diagnosis of COVID-19 and I have a history of mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, whether or not a diagnosis is confirmed should still be determined by viral testing. However, it is difficult to confirm the presence of the aforementioned discomfort symptoms based on experience and clinical research. It is advisable to seek appropriate treatment or manag...[Read More] COVID-19 Symptoms or Autonomic Nervous System Disorder?
Understanding Chronic Nausea and Dry Heaving: Seeking Solutions
Easily feels nauseous and experiences dry heaving? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a symptom since elementary school where I often feel nauseous and have the urge to vomit. I have seen doctors, but no diagnosis was made. Throughout my growth, this symptom has not been con...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is essential to first rule out whether physiological factors are the cause. Of course, psychosomatic factors may also play a role, and the low potassium levels in your blood test could be related to unstable intake or absorption. It is advisable to consult your family p...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Nausea and Dry Heaving: Seeking Solutions
Impact of MMR Vaccine on TB Testing: Timing and Necessity Explained
Questions related to the MMR vaccine and TB test? 1. The MMR vaccine does not affect the results of the TB test, whether it is the blood test or the X-ray method. However, it is generally recommended to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks after receiving the MMR vaccine before undergoing ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Receiving the MMR vaccine should not affect the results of the TB test blood draw and X-ray examination, and there is no need for a specific interval. 2. Some individuals may have insufficient antibodies in their body 10 years after receiving the MMR vaccine. Generally,...[Read More] Impact of MMR Vaccine on TB Testing: Timing and Necessity Explained
Understanding Abdominal Pulsations: Causes and Concerns
Abdominal pulsation When lying flat, I feel something hard in my abdomen that seems to be pulsating. It moves, but sometimes I can't feel the hard area, although it still feels like it's beating, similar to a heartbeat. Could this be an abdominal aortic aneurysm? 🥹 I ha...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The hard and pulsating object you feel in your abdomen while lying flat is likely the abdominal aorta, rather than an abdominal aortic aneurysm. If you are concerned, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pulsations: Causes and Concerns
How to Confirm if Your Child Has Favism: Medical Records and Testing Options
Unsure if the child has favism? Hello doctor, when my child was born, the doctor mentioned a suspicion of G6PD deficiency. Later, I got busy and forgot about it. I remember that some tests were done at that time. Can I check the records on the health insurance card, or do I need ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The examination for G6PD deficiency, also known as Favism, primarily involves a blood test to check for the presence of this enzyme. Most individuals typically use the National Health Insurance (NHI) Easy Card to query their previous test reports. However, if the test was ...[Read More] How to Confirm if Your Child Has Favism: Medical Records and Testing Options
Understanding Tinnitus and Chest Tightness: When to Seek Medical Help
Tinnitus and chest tightness? Hello, doctor. Over the past month, I have experienced episodes of shortness of breath and dizziness two to three times. Initially, I would have tinnitus, chest tightness, and cold sweats. After a few minutes, it would progress to shortness of breath...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you first consult your family physician for a preliminary assessment, and then determine if a referral to a specialist is necessary based on the situation. Additionally, if you experience an acute episode causing severe discomfort, it is advised to s...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus and Chest Tightness: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Issues: When to Seek Help
Chest tightness and shortness of breath? Hello doctor, I have been staying up late frequently, usually sleeping around 5 to 7 hours, with a bedtime around 4 AM. I had a similar issue last October and sought medical attention. At that time, my electrocardiogram, blood tests, and X...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello J: You are experiencing chest tightness and some shortness of breath. Your previous physical examination was normal, but it has been over six months, so it is advisable to seek medical attention again. You can choose to see either a family medicine physician or a pulmonolog...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Issues: When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Pancreatic amylase Hello Doctor: I recently had a blood test, and one of the items measured was amylase (normal range is 28-100 u/L). However, my report showed a level of 107 u/L. All other tests for liver and kidney function were normal. Could this indicate hyperamylasemia? I am...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Since your amylase level is only slightly elevated above the normal range, it is more likely to be a case of simple amylase elevation (possibly related to the pancreas or salivary glands) rather than macroamylasemia. Macroamylasemia is typically associated with certain inf...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
How Family Medicine Can Help You Tackle Chronic Bad Breath Issues
How does family medicine address the issue of halitosis? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing bad breath for many years, and it has recently become more severe. The odor primarily originates from my tongue and tonsils, and I have been aware of this issue for the past seven year...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
If you have maintained good oral hygiene and care but are still experiencing bad breath, it is important to determine whether it is caused by an underlying medical condition. Based on your description, oral and nasal diseases have been ruled out, so you may want to consider condi...[Read More] How Family Medicine Can Help You Tackle Chronic Bad Breath Issues