Understanding Lip Swelling and White Bumps: When to Seek Medical Help
Inner lips Hello doctor, I woke up this morning with a swelling sensation in my upper lip, and when I opened my lips, I found a white bump that looks like a pimple. If it doesn't improve in a couple of days, which specialist should I see?
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello JJ: I recommend that you consult with a dermatologist for evaluation. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Lip Swelling and White Bumps: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Foot Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Numbness in the soles of the feet? I would like to inquire about the issue of foot numbness. Recently, I have noticed that I frequently experience numbness in the soles of my feet. I have had this issue before, but it was not common. My usual work involves sitting at a desk for l...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: I suggest that you consult with a neurologist for evaluation. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Foot Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Does Lifting Weights After HPV Vaccine Affect Its Effectiveness?
After receiving the HPV vaccine Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if lifting heavy objects with the arm that received the HPV nine-valent vaccine about one hour after vaccination will affect the vaccine's effectiveness. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Lifting heavy objects and exerting muscles after vaccination does not affect the efficacy of the vaccine; however, it may increase post-injection side effects, such as soreness and swelling at the injection site. If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to apply a cool, ...[Read More] Does Lifting Weights After HPV Vaccine Affect Its Effectiveness?
Does Cholesterol Medication Affect Blood Test Results? Insights and Concerns
Will treatment for hyperlipidemia affect blood test results? 1. Last October, due to elevated cholesterol levels, my doctor recommended medication for hyperlipidemia (Rosuvastatin). Recently, in two check-ups, my GPT levels have increased (currently at 61 IU/L), while my GOT is a...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Mr. Hong: Coronary lipid-lowering agents may cause an increase in liver function tests, while changes in blood parameters are less common. Since we are unaware of any other diseases or medications you may have, it is advisable to consult with your primary physician to evalu...[Read More] Does Cholesterol Medication Affect Blood Test Results? Insights and Concerns
Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: Causes and Solutions
Weight loss Hello Doctor, I am 159 cm tall and weigh between 43 to 41 kg (currently taking medication and nasal spray for rhinitis, with no other significant health issues). A few months ago, I noticed my weight dropped from 47 kg to 43 kg within six months, but I didn't inv...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, in the above situation, it is recommended that you first consult your family physician for an evaluation. Depending on the circumstances, they may refer you to a specialist. Please note that online consultations are for advisory purposes only and cannot provide diagnoses o...[Read More] Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: Causes and Solutions
Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Skin issues Hello doctor, I have sensitive and dry skin, and I would like to ask if I need to remove makeup when sharing a phone or other items with someone who is wearing makeup, as well as during physical contact. I feel like washing my hands doesn't feel thorough enough, ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: For your sensitive and dry skin issues, it is recommended to regularly use a moisturizing lotion for skincare. Additionally, when sharing phones or other items with individuals who wear makeup, as well as during brief physical contact, the amount of makeup transferred is u...[Read More] Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Unexplained Weight Loss and Poor Appetite: What Could It Mean?
Weight loss has been persistent, and appetite is poor? I have been experiencing weight loss over the past few months and my appetite has not been very good, but I don't feel any other abnormalities in my body. My weight has been fluctuating between 40 to 42 kg, and I am worr...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description of weight loss, if there has been no specific dietary control or exercise for weight reduction, it is important to consider potential issues related to the endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, infectious diseases, or cancer, among others. It...[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss and Poor Appetite: What Could It Mean?
Understanding Unexplained Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a slightly elevated temperature (37.2-38.2°C) for the past three weeks. I visited a clinic, but my temperature continues to fluctuate. The most noticeable symptoms are drowsiness and headaches. Should I conside...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms of fever, lethargy, and headache may be due to a COVID-19 infection or influenza virus infection. However, since your discomfort has persisted for three weeks, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to rule out other serious infections or conditions (such...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention
How to Access Your Vaccination Records in Taiwan's Healthcare System
Where can I check my vaccination records? Hello, doctor. A few years ago, I received vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis B, and some other vaccines, but today when I used the health passbook feature in the National Health Insurance app, I only found records of the vaccines admini...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The following information is provided by the Ministry of Health and Welfare: Individuals or medical institutions can inquire about vaccination records through the following three channels: 1. Since 2014, contracted medical institutions can connect to the "National Imm...[Read More] How to Access Your Vaccination Records in Taiwan's Healthcare System
Can You Safely Use Viagra with Blood Pressure Medications?
Medication Consultation Currently, I am taking BLOPRESS 8mg (Candesartan) once daily and Norvasc 5mg (Amlodipine) half a tablet daily for hypertension. Can I also take Viagra (Sildenafil) or similar medications? If so, will there be any side effects? Thank you!
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Tianren: 1. Currently, there are three commonly approved PDE-5 inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: Sildenafil, Vardenafil, and Tadalafil. All three PDE-5 inhibitors have similar efficacy in treating erectile dysfunction, and their side effects are comp...[Read More] Can You Safely Use Viagra with Blood Pressure Medications?
Weight Loss, Diabetes, and Gastrointestinal Issues: Understanding the Connection
Weight issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello, doctor. I am currently away and would like to inquire about my father, who is 54 years old. A month ago, he noticed weight loss and frequent bloating. We suspect it might be related to diabetes, as he has a history of h...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: With dietary control and medication treatment, it is possible to lose weight if you are initially overweight. However, since there are various reasons for weight loss, it is still recommended to consult and evaluate with your primary physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Weight Loss, Diabetes, and Gastrointestinal Issues: Understanding the Connection
Why Your Weight Drops Overnight: Understanding Morning Weight Changes
Weight typically decreases upon waking up? Hello, doctor. I have been weighing myself recently and noticed that my weight every morning is lower than my weight the night before. Is this normal? I always thought that after eating throughout the day, my weight would increase by the...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you have experienced a weight loss of more than 5 kilograms or more than 5% of your original body weight within the past six months to a year, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Possible causes include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal diseases, cance...[Read More] Why Your Weight Drops Overnight: Understanding Morning Weight Changes
Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Tingling sensations in the left calf and chest? Hello: After being diagnosed with COVID, I noticed that my heart beats very strongly. I have seen a cardiologist, had an electrocardiogram and a Holter monitor, and had blood tests, all of which were reported as normal. Recently, I ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The sensations of a strong heartbeat, discomfort in your left calf, and chest tightness with stabbing pain may be related to a confirmed COVID-19 infection, specifically long COVID symptoms. Currently, the management of long COVID sequelae primarily focuses on symptom cont...[Read More] Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Tingling in the left calf and chest? Hello, after being diagnosed with COVID, I noticed that my heart beats very strongly. I have seen a cardiologist who performed an electrocardiogram and monitored my heart rhythm, and after blood tests, the doctor said everything was normal. Re...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The sensations of a strong heartbeat, discomfort in your left calf, and chest tightness with stabbing pain may be related to a confirmed COVID-19 infection, specifically long COVID symptoms. Currently, the management of long COVID sequelae primarily focuses on symptom cont...[Read More] Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
How to Properly Disinfect Showerheads to Prevent Infection Risks
Questions about environmental cleanliness? If you are concerned about the possibility of indirect infection from a showerhead contaminated with the blood of an individual with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is it sufficient to disinfect the exterior of bathroom fixtures ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Anonymous: 1. Generally speaking, the pathogens of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), whether bacterial or viral, have a difficult time surviving outside the human body; therefore, the transmission of STIs typically requires intimate contact. 2. Approximately 70...[Read More] How to Properly Disinfect Showerheads to Prevent Infection Risks
Can You Get Pregnant If the Condom Didn't Break?
If the condom did not break, is it possible to get pregnant? Hello, I would like to ask, my last menstrual period was from November 19 to November 23, and I had sexual intercourse afterwards, but we used condoms throughout (with correct usage). The condom was put on before penetr...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, condoms cannot guarantee 100% effectiveness. If your period is delayed, it is still recommended to take a pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for an examination. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatmen...[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant If the Condom Didn't Break?
Swollen Joint at the Tip of Right Middle Finger: Causes and Solutions
Swelling of the right middle finger joint? Hello Doctor, this morning I noticed that the tip of my right middle finger's nail, extending to the joint area, is swollen. The swelling is more pronounced on the left side, measuring approximately 1 cm in length and 0.5 cm in widt...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it could possibly be an epidermoid cyst, a mucous cyst, or a ganglion cyst, among others. If you wish to improve the condition, surgical excision may be considered. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Swollen Joint at the Tip of Right Middle Finger: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Your Health Check Results: Key Insights and Recommendations
Health examination data consultation Based on the provided lab results, here is the interpretation: - **Creatinine (CREA)**: 0.76 mg/dL - This value is within the normal range, indicating normal kidney function. - **Total Cholesterol**: 251 mg/dL - This is considered high. It is...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: Begin with dietary control (low fat: reduce fried foods, fatty meats, skin, animal fats, organ meats, and meat broth). Exercise for 30 minutes daily, at least 5 days a week. Follow up in 3 months without the need for medication, diagnosed with mildly elevated cholesterol.[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Results: Key Insights and Recommendations
Understanding Drug Interactions: Safe Medication Practices for Patients
Drug interactions Hello: I take Lofuget, Yulishupan, Shoumei Lipid-Lowering No. 1, and enzymes to aid bowel movements daily. I am very concerned about potential drug interactions and would like to ask: 1. After drinking milk, can I take my medications immediately? If there should...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The medications you are taking are not significantly affected by milk absorption, so you can take them after drinking milk. 2. These four medications can be taken together without any specific drug interaction issues. 3. Fludiazepam can generally be taken three times a ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Safe Medication Practices for Patients
Impact of Recent Blood Donation on HbA1c Test Accuracy
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Is it accurate to test glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) less than two weeks after donating 500 cc of blood?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Louis: Glycated hemoglobin is a compound formed by the binding of hemoglobin in red blood cells to glucose, serving as a reference standard for the average plasma glucose concentration over a period of time (approximately 3 months). Therefore, conditions such as anemia ...[Read More] Impact of Recent Blood Donation on HbA1c Test Accuracy