Understanding Blood Test Results: Do You Need Further Testing for Thalassemia?
Blood Test Consultation Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. I have mild mitral valve prolapse and my usual heart rate is around 100 beats per minute. I have been taking Concor 5mg for the past two years, but I stopped the medication last year. On t...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Karen: It is generally recommended to identify the underlying cause of anemia. You may consult with a physician at a family medicine clinic. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Do You Need Further Testing for Thalassemia?
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: What Your Blood Test Results Mean
Hello: Please determine if the following data indicates leukocytosis? Hello Doctor: May I ask if the following data indicates leukocytosis? I have blood tests every three to four months. When reviewing the report, the doctor mentioned that this data is similar to the data from th...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding the abnormal results from your blood test, you indeed have an issue with elevated white blood cell counts. Additionally, upon closer examination of your white blood cell differential, there is a suspicion of eosinophilia, which may be associated with allergies, i...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: What Your Blood Test Results Mean
Understanding Dizziness, High Temperature, and Rapid Heartbeat Symptoms
Dizziness, elevated body temperature, rapid heartbeat? Hello Doctor, I would like to detail my condition and seek your advice on which specialty to consult. Thank you. On April 11 and 12, during dinner time, I experienced symptoms suggestive of hypoglycemia, including mild dizz...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms include dizziness, palpitations, numbness in the hands, elevated body temperature, and feelings of hunger. Initially, we would suspect a possible infection, commonly related to the respiratory, gastrointestinal, or urinary tracts. If you do not have any relat...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness, High Temperature, and Rapid Heartbeat Symptoms
Low Neutrophils and High Lymphocytes: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Low neutrophil count / High lymphocyte count Hello, doctor. Since I started working at the company in 2016 and began regular health check-ups, I have noticed that the values for neutrophils and lymphocytes in my white blood cell count have been flagged. In 2017, my WBC was 5.5 (n...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on the data presented, there are no significant abnormalities in the white blood cell count. Typically, a white blood cell differential analysis is performed to examine the proportions of different types of white blood cells and to check for any abnormal forms. Overa...[Read More] Low Neutrophils and High Lymphocytes: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Anemia: Common Symptoms and When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Medical consultation Hello, Dr. Lin. I consulted you yesterday regarding my anemia values, but I still have some questions I'd like to ask. Although my hemoglobin has risen to 11.1, I frequently experience dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. Could this be related to my ferrit...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Your symptoms of dizziness, headache, fatigue, and hair loss are indeed likely related to low ferritin levels. 2. Coffee can affect the gastrointestinal absorption of iron; however, if consumed separately from meals, its impact is minimal. Since you mentioned that your ...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Common Symptoms and When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Post-Meal Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Insights
Postprandial diarrhea I have been experiencing diarrhea for over a week. Last week, I visited a doctor who prescribed me anti-diarrheal medication, and there has been some improvement, as I now have diarrhea twice a day. However, I still feel the urge to have a bowel movement imm...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your diarrhea issue, we will first consider more common causes such as infections (bacterial and viral) and dietary factors. Additionally, given your situation, we may also consider whether inflammation of nearby pelvic organs (such as the vagina, uterus, fallopi...[Read More] Post-Meal Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Insights
Can I Mix COVID Vaccines After Allergic Reaction to Contrast Dye?
COVID-19 vaccine I received my first and second doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, and I am now preparing to get my third dose. I previously experienced redness and itching after receiving a contrast agent during a CT scan, but I managed it by drinking water without taking any med...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Since you experience redness and itching after receiving the contrast agent, there is a suspicion that you may have an allergic reaction to it. Currently, it is suspected that an allergy to the contrast agent may increase the risk of allergic reactions to mRNA vaccines (Mo...[Read More] Can I Mix COVID Vaccines After Allergic Reaction to Contrast Dye?
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Key Questions and Concerns
Medical consultation Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask you about my lab results: Hb: 11.1, RDW-CV: 17.4, RDW-SD: 49.7, HCT: 33.4, ferritin: 9.5. I have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, but are these values considered severe? I have been receiving intravenous iron inf...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Regarding your anemia issue, it is diagnosed as iron deficiency anemia, which should not be a problem. Your hemoglobin level has increased from 8 to 11.1 after receiving intravenous iron therapy. If you do not have any anemia-related symptoms (such as dizziness or fat...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Key Questions and Concerns
Is It Safe to Get the COVID Vaccine with Complicated UTI?
Inquire whether it is appropriate to receive the vaccine? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about complex antibiotic-resistant urinary tract infections (UTIs) accompanied by infections in other parts of the urinary system. I have been experiencing recurrent infections and inflamm...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your current condition, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, and there is no evidence linking the COVID-19 vaccine to urinary tract infections or panic disorders. However, the cause of your recurrent complex urinary tract infections should be investig...[Read More] Is It Safe to Get the COVID Vaccine with Complicated UTI?
Diabetes Management: Understanding Elevated Lab Values After Medication
Diabetes - After medication, the health check values increased in the red? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with diabetes on January 5th this year. Here are some key values for your reference: (January 5 report) HbA1c: 11.2% Fasting Glucose: 223 mg/dL Cholesterol: 209 mg/dL Total Bi...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Ms. Liao: It is recommended that you consult with a physician in the Family Medicine department for further advice and to arrange for examinations. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Diabetes Management: Understanding Elevated Lab Values After Medication
Does Tramadol Pain Relief Significantly Impact Kidney Function in Patients?
Does Tramadol pain medication significantly affect kidney function? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the use of Tramadol, a type of analgesic, in patients with pre-existing renal impairment (eGFR 20, 30). Will it significantly affect renal function, especially when ad...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Tramadol is classified as a weak opioid. It does not inherently affect kidney function; however, in individuals with impaired renal function, the metabolism of the drug may be slower, necessitating careful monitoring for potential side effects such as altered consciousness...[Read More] Does Tramadol Pain Relief Significantly Impact Kidney Function in Patients?
Managing Dizziness After Eating Sweets: Causes and Solutions
Feeling dizzy for a prolonged period after consuming sweets or certain foods? I would like to ask how to alleviate dizziness and nausea that sometimes occur within an hour after eating sweets, and why this happens. Besides avoiding foods that cause dizziness, what other methods c...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you visit a family medicine clinic for evaluation, and if necessary, arrange for tests to clarify the cause. Thank you![Read More] Managing Dizziness After Eating Sweets: Causes and Solutions
COVID-19 Booster Shot Options for Mixed Vaccine Recipients in Taiwan
Third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello: My mother is 74 years old. She received the first dose of AstraZeneca, the second dose of BioNTech, and she wants to get the third dose of BioNTech, but the hospitals and clinics no longer provide it. I would like to ask: 1. Can my mothe...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! Before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, it is important to have a physician assess whether your individual health condition is suitable for vaccination. For information regarding vaccine availability, it is recommended to contact your local health department. Thank you![Read More] COVID-19 Booster Shot Options for Mixed Vaccine Recipients in Taiwan
Understanding Lower Back Pain and Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Lower back pain often occurs for a period of time and is accompanied by abdominal pain? I have been experiencing lower back pain for over a month, starting around the end of February, just before my menstrual period. I visited an orthopedic specialist and received electrical ther...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! If there is no improvement after treatment or if new symptoms appear, it is advisable to return for a consultation with the original treating physician. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain and Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left lower abdominal pain? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about the pain I have been experiencing in my lower left abdomen for about a week. It hurts when I lie down or go to the bathroom, especially when I am using the toilet, which is the most painful. I read online that it ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! If the symptoms persist without relief, it is advisable to consult a family medicine clinic. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cells and Low Lymphocytes: Causes and Implications
Low lymphocyte count, elevated neutrophil count, and elevated white blood cell count? Hello doctor, I found out during my health check-up that my white blood cell count is 11,790, with neutrophils at 83.30% and lymphocytes at 10.60%. Could you please explain what might cause this...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! If you have any concerns, it is recommended that you bring your health check-up report to a family medicine clinic for consultation. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cells and Low Lymphocytes: Causes and Implications
High Glycated Hemoglobin with Normal Blood Sugar: Is It Prediabetes?
Is a high level of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) with normal blood glucose levels indicative of prediabetes? I have been taking antihypertensive and lipid-lowering medications for many years, and I have blood tests every three months. In January, the abnormal results included t...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, dear mother: A glycated hemoglobin level between 5.8 and 6.4 can be classified as prediabetes. Please continue to maintain a healthy diet and engage in moderate exercise, and make sure to have regular follow-ups at the outpatient clinic. Additionally, the presence of abnor...[Read More] High Glycated Hemoglobin with Normal Blood Sugar: Is It Prediabetes?
Understanding Elevated Body Temperature: Possible Causes and Concerns
Elevated body temperature? I have been experiencing bloating, occasional loss of appetite, lower abdominal pain, and a tendency for my body temperature to be elevated, especially when lying down. I also have arrhythmia and have been in contact with two individuals who have overla...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, J1080349: If the ear temperature is below 38°C, it is not considered a true fever. If there are no other severe symptoms, you can continue to monitor the situation. If you have been in contact with two individuals who have overlapping exposure with a confirmed case, you ca...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Body Temperature: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Unexplained Chest and Back Pain: A Family Medicine Perspective
Physical discomfort? This year, I have occasionally experienced issues with arrhythmia, where my heart suddenly pauses. I have undergone blood tests and various examinations, all of which came back normal. However, today I experienced it again, but this time it occurred more freq...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Although your discomfort is primarily concentrated above the waist, from my perspective, it is still important to address each issue separately. I have broadly categorized your concerns into the following three items: 1. Arrhythmia: Given your age, it is necessary to che...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Chest and Back Pain: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Unusual Sensations: What Your Body Might Be Telling You
Strange sensations in the body? Hello, Doctor. Since March 12 of this year, I have been experiencing some strange sensations: 1. I feel as if my ankle or arm is being grabbed, or that someone is pressing down heavily on the top of my head. There was also an instance where I felt ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, from a Western medical perspective, we would likely start by addressing the abnormal sensations and consider the following conditions: 1. Endocrine disorders (such as diabetes or thyroid issues), which may sometimes be accompanied by menstrual ir...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Sensations: What Your Body Might Be Telling You