Accidentally Ingested Plastic Wrap: Health Risks and Concerns
Ingestion of plastic wrap? While eating at home, I bit into something hard and was unable to swallow. Upon spitting it out, I discovered it was plastic wrap. A family member forgot to remove the plastic wrap while cooking, but I had already eaten several pieces of food. I'm ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, ingested plastic wrap will pass through the gastrointestinal tract. The main concern is the potential for gastrointestinal obstruction. It is advisable to monitor for symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting. If you experience any of thes...[Read More] Accidentally Ingested Plastic Wrap: Health Risks and Concerns
Understanding Prediabetes: Can Diet Changes Prevent Diabetes?
Prediabetes I went to the hospital for a blood test, and the doctor said I have prediabetes with a fasting blood glucose level of 101 mg/dL and a hemoglobin A1c of 6.2%. However, I only reviewed the report a week after the blood test, during which I had all-you-can-eat barbecue, ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your test results, you are currently in the prediabetes stage. Generally, the progression to diabetes is gradual, so follow-up is typically done every three months. It is unlikely that a week of overeating will suddenly lead to diabetes. I recommend that you start...[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes: Can Diet Changes Prevent Diabetes?
Understanding Inner Thigh Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hard lump on the inner thigh? Recently, I may have worn tight underwear, which caused redness and swelling on the inner left thigh. The swelling has since subsided, but today I noticed a hard lump about 1.5 centimeters in size. It doesn't hurt when pressed, and I currently h...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The hard lump on the inner side of your left thigh may be due to previous soft tissue compression, resulting in temporary redness, swelling, and tightness. If the redness and swelling have subsided, the skin over the lump shows no significant changes, and the lump is not c...[Read More] Understanding Inner Thigh Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: What You Need to Know
Health examination red flags Hello doctor, I recently had a health check-up for my part-time job, and the report showed a fasting blood glucose level of 106. However, none of my relatives have a history of related illnesses, and my blood pressure, BMI, and waist circumference are...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Student, 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: What You Need to Know
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Vaccination Options
Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello Doctor: I was born in 2005 and previously received the hepatitis B vaccine, but due to my constitution, the antibodies later disappeared. On January 20, 2023, I had a French kiss and unprotected oral sex with a hepatitis B carrier, although ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Because you have engaged in oral sexual contact, there is still a possibility of contracting Hepatitis B. However, since you have previously received the Hepatitis B vaccine, even though the antibody levels may have decreased to undetectable levels, there may still be s...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Vaccination Options
Understanding Jaw Lymph Node Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Pain in the submandibular lymph nodes? The pain occurs approximately once every hour and has lasted for 2 to 3 days. However, the lymph nodes do not seem to be swollen upon examination. I'm not sure why this is happening, but it doesn't feel severe enough to warrant a d...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Pain in the submandibular lymph nodes is mostly associated with upper respiratory infections (viral infections are more common). It usually resolves on its own after recovery from a cold. If the discomfort is significant, over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken to all...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Lymph Node Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Assessing Post-Car Accident Wounds: Inflammation, Healing, and Next Steps
Hello, Dr. Lin, this is the wound from my car accident on the 28th, which was last Saturday? First, the most severe wound on the foot looks like this: https://upload.cc/i1/2023/01/31/fX9E3l.jpg. I'm not sure if this wound is still inflamed or if the scab is not healing well ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Regarding the wound on your foot, based on the image, it appears to still have some inflammation, and there may be some exudate present. However, this should be part of the normal healing process. It is recommended to continue regular dressing changes and not to use a...[Read More] Assessing Post-Car Accident Wounds: Inflammation, Healing, and Next Steps
Which Specialist to See for Nausea and Dizziness During Activities?
Which department should I see? Hello Doctor: Occasionally, while participating in activities during outings, I feel nauseous, and shortly after, I experience the urge to vomit, dizziness, blurred vision, and weakness in my limbs, which leads to fainting. However, after resting fo...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort may be due to syncope, which is often caused by neurological or cardiovascular issues. It is recommended that you consult a neurologist or a cardiologist.[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Nausea and Dizziness During Activities?
Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Lumbar issues Doctor, I would like to ask about some symptoms I'm experiencing. Sometimes I have pain in my left lower back, and when I stand, it feels particularly tight, as if there is something inside my lower back. Occasionally, I also feel a sensation of something forei...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. You: Regarding the issues near your lower back, if there are no visible signs, it is recommended to visit the clinic for a physician's examination. If there are concerns, non-invasive tests such as an ultrasound can be arranged for confirmation. Thank you for your ...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding HIV Risk After Unprotected Sex: Key Insights
HIV-related issues In mid-December, I had unprotected intercourse with someone. Since then, I have been monitoring my temperature daily and have not experienced any fever or other acute HIV symptoms. I would like to know if this means that the likelihood of being infected is very...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The incubation period for HIV can range from a few weeks to several years, and the initial symptoms may resemble mild flu-like symptoms. If you are concerned about the possibility of HIV infection, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for peace of mind.[Read More] Understanding HIV Risk After Unprotected Sex: Key Insights
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Blood test report I often experience dizziness, chest tightness, palpitations, fatigue, and excessive sleepiness, so I had a blood test done today. Could you please tell me if there are any issues with the lab report? Lab report: - White Blood Cell Count: 12,410 - Red Blood C...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your blood test report shows two main issues: 1. Severe microcytic anemia, which may require consideration of iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. 2. Elevated white blood cell count with increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes, which may raise concerns about pos...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Concerns About Mouse-Borne Diseases After Visiting an Internet Cafe
Rodent-borne disease issues? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, when I was about to leave an internet café, I noticed what seemed to be mouse footprints on the armrest of the chair. During my time there, my clothes and hands came into contact with the armrest, and I also ordered food to e...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The information from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control is as follows: Diseases that can be transmitted by rodents include plague, rat-bite fever, endemic typhus, leptospirosis, scrub typhus, Lyme disease, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, leptospirosis, and rickettsial s...[Read More] Concerns About Mouse-Borne Diseases After Visiting an Internet Cafe
Should You See a Doctor for STDs Without Symptoms? Here's What to Know
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) issues? If there are no symptoms after sexual intercourse, can I still see a doctor? If so, which specialty should I consult: family medicine, urology, or infectious diseases?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you are concerned about contracting a sexually transmitted infection after sexual activity, it is recommended to visit an infectious disease specialist.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for STDs Without Symptoms? Here's What to Know
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Do You Have Anemia?
Abnormalities in the blood test section of the health examination report? Hello Doctor, I had a health check-up this month and found that my blood test results showed several abnormalities. My white blood cell count is 11.43, red blood cell count is 4.62, hemoglobin is 10.8 g/dL,...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the data you provided, it appears to be microcytic anemia, which can be re-evaluated and monitored in general internal medicine, family medicine, or hematology.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Do You Have Anemia?
Chills Without Fever: Understanding Cold Sensitivity and Symptoms
Feeling cold and shivering without a fever? Hello doctor, in recent years, whenever the weather gets cold, I suddenly feel cold and start shivering at night, to the point where my teeth chatter. This condition can last for over an hour, but I have never had a fever. I usually use...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if an infection has been ruled out, there may be other physical conditions that still need to be evaluated. It is advisable to consult your family physician for assistance, and depending on the situation, they may refer you to other subspecialtie...[Read More] Chills Without Fever: Understanding Cold Sensitivity and Symptoms
Understanding Nosebleeds After Vomiting: Causes and Concerns
There is a slight nosebleed? Hello Doctor: I developed gastroenteritis the day before yesterday, with symptoms of vomiting and fever. While I was vomiting, I had a bit of a runny nose. Today, when I blew my nose, I noticed a little bit of blood on the tissue. It wasn't flowi...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The microvasculature in the nose is quite dense, so during winter or dry conditions, the fragile nasal mucosa can easily rupture and bleed due to external forces. Please blow your nose gently, and if bleeding persists, seek treatment from an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Nosebleeds After Vomiting: Causes and Concerns
How to Choose the Right Specialist for High LDL-C Levels
Abnormal LDL-C - How to make an appointment at the outpatient clinic? Hello: During last year's health check-up (September 2022), I noticed several abnormalities, among which my LDL-C has been above the normal range for several consecutive years. I later attended a consultat...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. If a patient is experiencing chest tightness, chest pain, or acute coronary syndrome, it is recommended to directly schedule an appointment with a cardiologist. 2. If there are no heart-related diseases and only abnormal cholesterol levels are present, then a cardiologist, end...[Read More] How to Choose the Right Specialist for High LDL-C Levels
Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Identifying the source of hematuria? My father recently experienced hematuria, and despite family urging him to seek medical attention, he has been unwilling to do so, which has made us very upset. He described his hematuria as being a deep red color and stated that it was consis...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Poisoning or rhabdomyolysis can lead to dark or red-colored urine; however, the term hematuria specifically refers to the presence of red blood cells in the urine. Gross hematuria is visible to the naked eye, while microscopic hematuria is detected under a microscope. 2. The...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Factors Affecting Urine Test Results: Understanding Protein and Blood Levels
I would like to inquire about the factors that can affect urine test results? Medical Examination Report: Urine: Protein 15 mg/dL, Albumin 80 mg/dL, Occult blood 1+; Blood: Glucose 81 mg/dL. The urine test was conducted in the morning of the examination day, but it was discovered...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you have a follow-up examination one week after your menstrual period ends. You can choose either general internal medicine or family medicine for the consultation.[Read More] Factors Affecting Urine Test Results: Understanding Protein and Blood Levels
Essential Health Checkups: Addressing Your Concerns and Symptoms
Physical examination Hello Doctor, I have health anxiety, so I am very sensitive to changes in my body. I am particularly afraid of serious illnesses like cancer and often overthink minor issues (the family medicine doctors I’ve seen say I tend to overreact). I have undergone man...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: 1. A superficial lipoma in the abdominal area, if it has not increased in size or shown any other significant changes, is generally not a concern. However, if it continues to grow, it is advisable to follow up with a general surgery outpatient clinic at a regional...[Read More] Essential Health Checkups: Addressing Your Concerns and Symptoms