Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol and WBC Concerns
Blood test report issues? I recently received my lab report and have two questions. The first issue is regarding my total cholesterol, which is 205, indicating it is slightly high. My triglycerides are 115, which is normal, my HDL-C is 72.3, which is normal, and my LDL-C is 94.5,...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! "Total cholesterol is composed of esterified cholesterol (Cholesterol ester, approximately 70%) and free cholesterol (Free cholesterol, approximately 30%). These two components are derived from four types of lipoproteins, including high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol and WBC Concerns
Understanding Forceful Heartbeats and Chest Discomfort: Next Steps
Palpitations and chest tightness? Hello Doctor: Since the afternoon of April 12, I have been feeling a strong heartbeat, especially when leaning against the back of a chair or lying in bed, where I can distinctly feel my chest rising and falling. I subsequently consulted a cardio...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, there are no issues with the heart, only mitral valve prolapse. It can be inferred that the palpitations are a secondary phenomenon, likely triggered by certain situations. It may be helpful to identify the causes and make adjustments. Ensure ade...[Read More] Understanding Forceful Heartbeats and Chest Discomfort: Next Steps
Understanding Night Sweats: Differentiating from Regular Sweating
Regarding night sweats? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor if night sweats are easy to distinguish from regular sweating. According to online information, night sweats are described as a type of cold sweat similar to that experienced during a fever, resulting in the entire bod...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Night sweats often occur during the night or as a response of the autonomic nervous system after extreme discomfort, which is different from regular sweating. Therefore, it is important to first rule out environmental heat before investigating the underlying causes.[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats: Differentiating from Regular Sweating
High Platelet Count and Elevated Vitamin B12: Understanding the Implications
Elevated levels of platelets and vitamin B12 in immunoassays? This is the recent complete blood count (CBC) with differential results: - WBC: 6.99 - RBC: 4.64 - RDW-SD: 46.7 - HCT: 41.4 - HGB: 13.7 - PLATELET: 496 - MCHC: 33.1 - MCV: 89.2 - MPV: 8.9 - P-LCR: 14.8 - PDW: 8.6 - MC...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, The test results show that there are almost no significant issues, but further monitoring is needed in about 3-6 months. However, the Vitamin B12 level is 1215, which is much higher than the reference range. Generally, excess water-soluble Vitamin B12 is metabolized and ...[Read More] High Platelet Count and Elevated Vitamin B12: Understanding the Implications
Assessing Lung Cancer Risks for Food Delivery Workers: Key Considerations
Regarding the job of food delivery and lung cancer? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask: 1. Due to financial reasons, I have to spend a lot of time riding a motorcycle for food delivery (Foodpanda). If I continue doing this for 20 years, will my risk of developing lung cancer be s...
Dr. Li Zhenggang Reply:
1. According to a report by the WHO, one of the risk factors for lung cancer is air pollution. Therefore, the longer the exposure to air pollution, the higher the risk compared to individuals who are not exposed to it. As for whether the risk is "very high," that depend...[Read More] Assessing Lung Cancer Risks for Food Delivery Workers: Key Considerations
Is a Potassium Level of 5.11 Considered Hyperkalemia?
What is the definition of hyperkalemia? Hello, Dr. Yeh. I have a family history of thyroid issues, so I regularly go to the hospital for check-ups. Recently, I found that one of my test results showed a potassium level of 5.110, which is slightly above the upper limit of 5.100. D...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, you currently have elevated potassium levels. Hyperkalemia does not typically present with specific symptoms, and it is important to consider the influence of other related conditions. I recommend that you consult with your primary physician to r...[Read More] Is a Potassium Level of 5.11 Considered Hyperkalemia?
Headaches and Eye Issues: When to See a Family Doctor
Headache, inability to open eyes? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the interruption. My father experienced symptoms of headache and dizziness last Friday. The headache was located on both sides of his head, and he couldn't sleep at night, appearing very fatigued. By Monday, hi...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! For acute issues, it is recommended that you seek medical attention immediately at a healthcare facility![Read More] Headaches and Eye Issues: When to See a Family Doctor
Health Concerns After Possible Exposure to Cockroach Spray
The impact of cockroach spray on the body? Recently, I disposed of a garbage bag containing 9 boxes of discarded cockroach bait (Combat Max Roach Bait; https://pxbox.es.pxmart.com.tw/product/18480; according to online sources, the active ingredient is Fipronil 0.05% w/w). When I ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it does not constitute exposure. Even if there was exposure, there should be no specific symptoms in the short term; however, there may be risks of carcinogenesis and reproductive-related hazards in the long term.[Read More] Health Concerns After Possible Exposure to Cockroach Spray
Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Possible Causes and Next Steps for Evaluation
Persistent elevated body temperature? Hello, doctor. Last August, I had a fever reaching 38 degrees Celsius (ear temperature), which dropped to 37.7 degrees on the same day. However, I have been experiencing a persistent low-grade fever ranging from 37 to 37.5 degrees until March...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Tsai, I understand from your letter that you have been experiencing persistent low-grade fever since August of last year, and various examinations have not revealed a cause. Generally, the potential causes of continuous fever may include infections, rheumatologic and au...[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Possible Causes and Next Steps for Evaluation
Managing Post-Injection Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Pain persists after receiving the injection? Hello, doctor. On April 25th, I had a cardiovascular MRI with contrast injection, and a soft catheter was placed on the back of my right hand. During the procedure, the nurse came in to inject the contrast, and it was very painful at t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the pain and bruising may be caused by a ruptured vein. If it is phlebitis or extravasation of contrast media, there will typically be signs of redness and swelling. It is recommended to apply ice and take oral anti-inflammatory pain relievers, a...[Read More] Managing Post-Injection Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Concerns About Infection Risks from Everyday Activities
Infection issues Hello, Doctor. 1. When riding a bicycle, I place items on the foot mat, but to prevent them from falling, I keep my foot on them the entire time and only use my hand to grab them afterward. Could this lead to an infection, even though I wash my hands? I'm ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The items that shoes come into contact with may carry dirt and bacteria, raising concerns about infection. However, most infections occur through hand contact when proper hygiene is not maintained, leading to touching the eyes, nose, and mouth. Therefore, hand hygiene is c...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Everyday Activities
Understanding Anemia: Blood Test Results and PPI Impact on Iron Absorption
Anemia issues Hello, Doctor. This is my blood test report for this year: RBC 4.93 [4.26–5.56], Hb 12.9 [13.5–17.5], Hct 39.3 [40–49], MCV 79.7 [80–100], MCH 26.2 [26–34], MCHC 32.8 [31–37], RDW 13.2 [11.5–14.5]. Does this indicate anemia? This is my report from June of last year:...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your blood test report indicates microcytic anemia, with the more common causes being thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. Since your previous blood test did not show any signs of anemia, it is more likely to be iron deficiency anemia. The causes of iron deficiency anem...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Blood Test Results and PPI Impact on Iron Absorption
Understanding Infection Risks from Everyday Activities: A Guide for Patients
Infection issues Hello, Doctor. 1. When riding a bike, I place items on the foot mat, but to prevent them from falling, I keep my foot on them the entire time and only grab them with my hand afterward. Could this lead to an infection? Although I wash my hands, I am concerned ab...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If your hands come into contact with something that has been stepped on by shoes, washing your hands with soap is sufficient to achieve cleanliness and disinfection.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks from Everyday Activities: A Guide for Patients
Managing Prediabetes: Balancing Carbs, Weight Loss, and Blood Sugar Levels
Prediabetes Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask a question. I was diagnosed last August with a fasting blood sugar of 115 mg/dL, HbA1c of 5.8%, and a weight of 79 kg. By April of this year, my fasting blood sugar was 108 mg/dL, HbA1c was 5.7%...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, you are currently not in the prediabetic stage. Through dietary and exercise control, both your blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels have improved, leading to weight loss, and it is not due to hyperglycemia causing cachexia. I...[Read More] Managing Prediabetes: Balancing Carbs, Weight Loss, and Blood Sugar Levels
Accidentally Swallowed a Broken Toothpick: What to Do Next?
I accidentally swallowed a broken piece of an ABS food-grade toothpick, approximately 0.3 cm in length, while using it to clean my teeth? On April 22nd, after dinner at 9 PM, I used a food-grade ABS toothpick to clean my teeth, but it seems to have broken off about 0.3 cm! I acci...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It should be excreted with the stool, and any gastrointestinal discomfort should be monitored; seek medical attention if necessary. Thank you.[Read More] Accidentally Swallowed a Broken Toothpick: What to Do Next?
Persistent Toe Bruise: Understanding Hard Lumps and Pain Management
Bruising on the toe that does not resolve, resulting in a hard lump? Hello Doctor: On April 3rd, I injured my toe, and there is a bruise under the skin at the tip of my toe. It hurts when lightly touched, and it looks like a large red mole. Over time, the color has gradually turn...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: Trauma can cause bleeding in the blood vessels of the toes, leading to a hematoma, which typically resolves on its own within about two weeks. If it does not completely absorb and becomes hardened, you may seek treatment from a general surgeon or a dermatologist.[Read More] Persistent Toe Bruise: Understanding Hard Lumps and Pain Management
Understanding Infection Risks: Everyday Scenarios and Prevention Tips
Infection issues? Hello, Doctor. 1. When riding a bike, I place items on the foot mat, but to prevent them from falling, I keep my feet on them the entire time and only use my hands to retrieve them afterward. Could this lead to an infection, even though I wash my hands? I'...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Touching something that has been stepped on by shoes can actually be cleaned and sanitized effectively with soap and water.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks: Everyday Scenarios and Prevention Tips
Can People with Favism Safely Consume Pearl Powder?
Consumption of pearl powder in individuals with favism? Hello, I have a personal history of favism and have been advised not to consume pearl powder. Recently, I noticed that some beauty and health products contain pearl powder, so I searched for information related to favism. I ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The main component of pearl powder is calcium carbonate, along with a small amount of carbohydrates, amino acids, and trace elements (including heavy metals), among others. Calcium carbonate, carbohydrates, and amino acids are unlikely to cause hemolytic reactions in indiv...[Read More] Can People with Favism Safely Consume Pearl Powder?
Can Cold Medicine Cause False Positive in Drug Urine Tests?
Urinalysis Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about a recent drug test I underwent that involved a urine analysis. I heard from a colleague that taking cold medicine could potentially result in a positive drug test. I did take cold medicine on February 13 due to a cold. If I take...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, certain ingredients in cold medications may cause false positive reactions during screening, but further confirmatory tests can differentiate them. Reminder: Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendatio...[Read More] Can Cold Medicine Cause False Positive in Drug Urine Tests?
Why Am I Sleeping 15 Hours and Still Feeling Tired?
Recently, even after sleeping for over ten hours, I still feel easily fatigued? Hello, doctor. I have been sleeping for about fourteen to fifteen hours a day for the past few days, and after waking up for more than an hour, I start to feel sleepy again. I haven't taken any m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The reasons for your fatigue, aside from medication effects or physical exhaustion, may also include considerations such as anemia, infections, sleep apnea, abnormalities in heart/liver/kidney function, blood sugar/electrolyte imbalances, endocrine disorders, and other iss...[Read More] Why Am I Sleeping 15 Hours and Still Feeling Tired?