Understanding Parasite Infections: Risks from Stray Dogs and Hygiene
Questions about parasitic infections? Hello Doctor, Q1: Since I live in the countryside, there are stray dogs around my home and near my workplace. There is often dog feces on the road. Yesterday, after a light rain, I walked to my car and felt water droplets hitting the ground...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it is advisable to avoid polluted environments if possible. It is recommended that you wash your hands properly with soap for at least 20 seconds after coming into contact with dirt. If you are unable to wash your hands immediately, do not touch ...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Infections: Risks from Stray Dogs and Hygiene
Can I Get the HPV Vaccine While Taking Antibiotics?
HPV vaccine and antibiotics? Hello Dr. Hsiao, due to prostatitis, I have recently started taking antibiotics (Lisacef 500mg and OA18-Cephradine 500mg). Next week is scheduled for my second dose of the HPV nine-valent vaccine. Can I still receive it as planned? If not, what is the...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Capybara: 1. According to the recommendations of Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control, the schedule for administering the HPV nine-valent vaccine consists of three doses: one at 0 months, one at 1 to 2 months, and one at 6 months. In cases of severe infections, immunoc...[Read More] Can I Get the HPV Vaccine While Taking Antibiotics?
Understanding Elevated Red Blood Cells and Platelets: Causes and Solutions
Blood report Hello Doctor: Recently, I received my blood test results: W.B.C 5360/µL (normal), R.B.C 554 x 10^4/µL (slightly elevated), Hb 15.6 g/dL (normal), Ht 47.1% (normal), MCV 85 fL (normal), MCH 28.2 pg (normal), MCHC 33.1 g/dL (normal), Platelet 402,000/µL (slightly eleva...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based solely on the numbers, there may not be significant abnormalities. However, a comprehensive evaluation of the related systems is necessary to reach a complete conclusion. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnosti...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Red Blood Cells and Platelets: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Diabetes: Key Questions on Symptoms and Treatment
Some questions regarding diabetes? Hello, doctor. I am a university student majoring in biomedical sciences, and I am currently working on a paper discussion topic. My report is about the use of Ephedra to treat hyperglycemia and oxidative stress caused by diabetes. Initially, I ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, university student: If you are currently experiencing any symptoms of diabetes, the best solution is to visit a hospital for testing, as you may receive results on the same day. Streptozotocin is used in medical research to establish animal models for Type 1 diabetes, whil...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Key Questions on Symptoms and Treatment
Can I Take These Medications Together? A Family Medicine Inquiry
Medication Consultation Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask if the following medications can be taken together. Thank you. I am currently taking medications prescribed by a urologist: for three months, J32 Zinc gluconate 78mg (for zinc deficiency) (zinc 10mg)/tab (one before break...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The medications you are currently taking do not have any significant interactions with each other; however, Pantoprazole may affect the absorption of zinc in Zinc gluconate.[Read More] Can I Take These Medications Together? A Family Medicine Inquiry
Understanding Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides: What Your Results Mean
Total cholesterol and triglyceride issues? Hello doctor, I recently had a blood test and my total cholesterol was 257, triglycerides were 38, visceral fat rate was 3, body fat percentage was 16, height is 163 cm, and weight is 50 kg. Is my total cholesterol level a concern?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Qoo: Your BMI is 18.8, and your body fat percentage is 16, which are within the normal range. However, your triglycerides are low at 38, and your visceral fat level is also low at 3, while your total cholesterol is elevated at 257. Cholesterol in the blood comes from di...[Read More] Understanding Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides: What Your Results Mean
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left abdominal pain and tenderness? Hello Dr. Chen, I underwent a kidney biopsy on March 21 due to lupus erythematosus affecting my left kidney. Additionally, I recently discovered a teratoma and am currently awaiting surgery. Over the past week or two, I have occasionally expe...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Ann, In your letter, you mentioned experiencing intermittent pain and tenderness in the left upper and lower abdomen over the past week or two. Although you underwent a left kidney biopsy a few weeks ago and have a history of teratoma, these may not be directly related....[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Navigating Multiple Health Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Multiple discomforts? I have widespread pain or a sudden sensation of coolness in a small area of skin, and I'm unsure which specialist to consult since it feels wasteful to see each one individually. Here are the situations I've experienced: 1. I have random abdominal...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The abdominal pain you are experiencing may be related to constipation. 2. The abnormal sensations in your skin could be due to dryness or an allergic reaction. 3. The symptoms of runny nose and nasal congestion may indicate allergic rhinitis. 4. The itching in your eye...[Read More] Navigating Multiple Health Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Causes and Concerns
Abnormal blood sugar issues? Hello doctor, I have a habit of monitoring my blood sugar levels. Previously, my fasting blood sugar in the morning was consistently between 88 and 96. However, yesterday it suddenly rose to 104. I tested it twice more, getting readings of 100 and 103...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The normal fasting blood glucose level in the morning is between 70-99 mg/dL, while the fasting blood glucose level for prediabetes is between 100-125 mg/dL. Additionally, the normal blood glucose level two hours after a meal is between 80-139 mg/dL. Based on your measured...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: What You Need to Know
Elevated lymphocyte count? Hello, doctor! On January 8th of this year, I had a routine blood test at the clinic, and the results showed: neutrophils at 33.5%, lymphocytes at 55%, and monocytes at 9.6%. Due to the abnormal results, I underwent another test on April 8th, and the re...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, the proportion of lymphocytes is elevated. Treatment should be aligned with your clinical symptoms. Generally, the subtypes of white blood cells maintain a dynamic balance. If there are any concerns, you may follow up at a medical fac...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: What You Need to Know
Do I Need a Rabies Vaccine After Being Scratched by a Kitten?
A three-week-old kitten scratched my skin? Five days ago, I was scratched by a three-week-old stray kitten in the Yunlin area. I washed the wound with soap for about 20 seconds and applied medication, and the next day there was no visible wound. Do I still need to receive a rabie...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: Current surveillance data in Taiwan shows no rabies infections in stray dogs and cats. Additionally, there is an ongoing initiative to vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies in the country, resulting in an extremely low risk of rabies virus infection in domestic do...[Read More] Do I Need a Rabies Vaccine After Being Scratched by a Kitten?
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Should You Worry?
Blood sugar issues? Hello doctor, my fasting blood sugar in the morning fluctuates between 88 and 96, but it never exceeds 100. Should I be concerned about this? Is there a risk that I might unintentionally develop prediabetes if I don't control my diet?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The normal range for fasting blood glucose in the morning is 70-99 mg/dL, while the range for prediabetes is 100-125 mg/dL. Therefore, your fasting blood glucose level is normal. Additionally, if you are still concerned, it is recommended that you check your blood glucose ...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Should You Worry?
Understanding Sudden Back Pain While Breathing: Causes and Concerns
Pain in the back during breathing? About five minutes after finishing dinner, while walking, I suddenly experienced sharp pain in my back, roughly in the middle and lower right area. The pain worsens with deep breaths or exhalation, feeling like a stabbing pain. Although it is no...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The possible causes of your back pain may include issues related to the heart, lungs, aorta, kidneys, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, spine, intervertebral discs, and muscles, among others. Since the severity can vary greatly, it is recommended that you seek medical eval...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Back Pain While Breathing: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Sudden Sleepiness: Possible Causes and Concerns
Sudden excessive sleepiness? Hello Doctor, for the past week or two, I have suddenly been experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness every afternoon, along with weakness in my right limbs. I used to rarely feel my heart beating, but now I can easily sense it. This week, I have als...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Ms. Hsu: 1. Hyperthyroidism can also cause these symptoms; please consult a metabolic specialist. 2. If you experience persistent anxiety and difficulty sleeping, it may be a case of autonomic nervous system dysregulation; please see a psychiatrist.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Sleepiness: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Postprandial Blood Sugar Peaks in Type 2 Diabetes Management
Blood sugar issues? Hello, doctor. I am a patient with type 2 diabetes, and I recently purchased a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). After wearing it, I observed that my blood glucose levels typically peak about "one hour after meals" (sometimes reaching values of 170, ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is normal for blood sugar levels to rise after eating. The effectiveness of insulin in your body will be reflected in your postprandial blood sugar levels. Currently, experts agree that evaluating blood sugar levels two hours after a meal is appropriate. Based on your d...[Read More] Understanding Postprandial Blood Sugar Peaks in Type 2 Diabetes Management
Needle Stick Injury: Risk of Infection from Blood Glucose Testing
Needle stick injury Hello, doctor: My mom accidentally got pricked by a needle while measuring my dad's blood sugar. Since my dad has hepatitis B, he immediately squeezed out the blood. Is there a risk of infection in this situation?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Although the amount of blood remaining on the needle should be minimal, there is still a risk of hepatitis B infection. It is advisable to take your parents to the doctor for blood tests as soon as possible.[Read More] Needle Stick Injury: Risk of Infection from Blood Glucose Testing
Concerns About Discontinuing Cholesterol Medication in Family Medicine
Concerns Regarding Medications for Hyperlipidemia Hello, doctor. I would like to consult about my father. He visits a family medicine clinic near our home every month, and every three months he receives medication for his three high conditions (hypertension, hyperlipidemia). Howe...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The target levels for hyperlipidemia medication are determined based on individual risk factors. There are also relevant regulations for health insurance coverage. Typically, if dietary and exercise modifications do not achieve target levels after 3-6 months, medication tr...[Read More] Concerns About Discontinuing Cholesterol Medication in Family Medicine
Managing Blood Pressure: Navigating Medication Side Effects and Concerns
Blood pressure issues? At home, my diastolic blood pressure has been consistently high, ranging from 90 to over 100, and my systolic pressure is between 130 and 140. On December 27, 2023, I visited a hypertension specialist for the first time, and they prescribed me a three-month...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The occurrence of herpes on your lips and mild abdominal pain should not be related to Epanutin 5/80. 2. Epanutin 5/80 is not commonly associated with arrhythmia as a side effect; rather, tea and coffee are more likely to cause arrhythmias. 3. Your blood pressure has de...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure: Navigating Medication Side Effects and Concerns
Understanding Rib Pain and Body Discomfort: Possible Causes
Rib pain accompanied by general malaise? I would like to ask, in the past couple of days, I have been experiencing intermittent dull pain in the lower ribs on both sides, along with a sore throat. At times, I also feel cold. What could be the possible reasons for this?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The pain in your ribs, sore throat, and chills may be caused by a viral infection. Currently, common viral infections include the COVID-19 virus and the influenza virus, among others. It is recommended that you seek medical evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Rib Pain and Body Discomfort: Possible Causes
Understanding Lower Right Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Sharp pain and numbness in the lower right mid-back? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing lower back pain for a long time, and I have not been able to identify the cause. I am wondering if it is related to any internal organ issues. This pain has been affecting my daily life....
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of back pain. It is recommended to rule them out one by one to identify the true underlying issue. For example, a neurosurgeon can evaluate for spinal degeneration or herniated discs. A gastroenterologist can assess for issues such as liver or pancrea...[Read More] Understanding Lower Right Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help