Managing Low Potassium: Heart Rhythm Issues and Breathing Difficulties
Hypokalemia, arrhythmia, dyspnea, hypertension? I would like to ask the doctor if hypokalemic periodic paralysis lasts a long time? I have had low potassium levels for 7 months! I don't know what to do; I have been seeing a nephrologist and taking medication, which makes it ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, generally speaking, excessive potassium loss in a short period may be due to the use of diuretics, diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating. Another reason could be insufficient daily intake combined with a high-sodium diet, leading to an electrolyte imbalance. If you are...[Read More] Managing Low Potassium: Heart Rhythm Issues and Breathing Difficulties
Awoken by Chest Pain: Which Specialist Should You See?
If you wake up in the middle of the night with chest pain, which specialist should you see? On the night of May 29, I woke up in pain (the pain started suddenly when I turned to lie on my back, lasting about 15 minutes). It was quite painful, located in the left chest area near t...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended that you consult a pulmonologist for further examination by a physician.[Read More] Awoken by Chest Pain: Which Specialist Should You See?
Understanding Left Chest Pain After Alcohol Consumption: Causes and Solutions
Pain in the lower left chest after drinking alcohol? Dear Doctor: Whenever I consume food or beverages containing alcohol, I experience pain and even cramping in the lower left chest and adjacent abdominal area. It feels like muscle tightness and there is a slight swelling sensat...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, alcohol can cause gastrointestinal bloating, and bloating can lead to frequent contractions of the intestinal muscles. If this causes significant discomfort in daily life, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a physician.[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain After Alcohol Consumption: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello, Doctor. I would like to inquire about my son's blood test results from his health check in 2019, which showed the following abnormalities: WBC 6.9 (normal range: 4.8–10.8), RBC* 6.70 (normal range: 4.7–6.1), HgB* 13.6 (...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, thalassemia is the most common congenital anemia among Taiwanese people. Most patients with thalassemia are actually asymptomatic and are often discovered to have low hemoglobin levels during health check-ups or other blood tests. It is only upon further examination at a h...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding High Total Cholesterol Despite Normal Lipid Levels
Elevated total cholesterol? The company's health check results show a total cholesterol level of 243, triglycerides at 81, HDL at 96.6, and LDL at 107.3. The latter three values are normal, and the individual regularly consumes vegetables. However, why is the total cholester...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, there are many reasons for high cholesterol levels, including genetics, aging, and lifestyle factors. Regarding lifestyle, poor dietary habits, obesity, lack of exercise, and stress management are all potential contributors. It is recommended that you maintain good dietary...[Read More] Understanding High Total Cholesterol Despite Normal Lipid Levels
Understanding Bloating and Elevated White Blood Cell Count: What You Need to Know
Abdominal bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort, elevated white blood cell count? Hello, in the past two to three days, I have frequently experienced slight pain in the upper abdomen after eating, along with easy fatigue. However, my bowel movements are normal, and I do not ha...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, the elevated white blood cell count you mentioned may indicate an inflammatory response, possibly due to an infection or autoimmune reaction in some part of the body. It could also be related to gastrointestinal inflammation or other inflammatory conditions. You may contin...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Elevated White Blood Cell Count: What You Need to Know
Left Chest Pain After Alcohol: Causes and When to Seek Help
Pain in the lower left chest after drinking alcohol? Dear Doctor: Whenever I consume food or beverages containing alcohol, I experience pain and even cramping in the lower left chest area and adjacent abdomen. It feels like muscle tightness and there is a slight swelling sensatio...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, alcohol can affect neuronal transmission or related bodily tissues. It is recommended that you first consult a family medicine physician or a specialist in neurology.[Read More] Left Chest Pain After Alcohol: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Dizziness, Skin Itching, and Unusual Appetite Issues
Dizziness, skin itching, and unusual appetite? Hello, doctor. I have some questions regarding my dizziness issue that has persisted for many years. Since my student days, I have experienced unexplained dizziness, sometimes to the point of pain, and my heart races significantly. O...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, regarding your dizziness, I recommend that you consult a neurologist for further examination. Additionally, your appetite changes and itching may be related not only to physiological symptoms but also to psychological states. It is advisable to relax and, if necessary, see...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness, Skin Itching, and Unusual Appetite Issues
Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights
There is a sharp pain in the upper left abdomen? Recently, I have been experiencing a sharp pain in my upper left abdomen. There is also a tingling sensation when I extend my left arm straight, and I feel pain when bending over. However, I do not feel any discomfort while walking...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist for further examination or an abdominal ultrasound.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights
Do Adults Need One or Two Doses of Chickenpox Vaccine?
Number of doses for adult self-paid varicella vaccination? Hello, doctor. I received a private varicella vaccine when I was a child. Recently, during a health check-up at the age of 30, I found out that I no longer have antibodies. When I inquired about varicella vaccine informat...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, since your antibody report does not provide clear information about your actual condition, it is recommended that you return to the hospital for a check-up with a family medicine physician or a relevant specialist for confirmation.[Read More] Do Adults Need One or Two Doses of Chickenpox Vaccine?
Understanding Dizziness and Head Pain in Elderly Patients: Causes and Solutions
Elderly individuals experiencing dizziness, headaches, and numbness in the head? Hello Dr. Tsai, My mother is 80 years old. Her medical history includes hypertension for which she takes Lercanidipine 50mg. She does not have diabetes, her liver function tests are normal, and her...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, first, check if the blood pressure is stable. A reading of 140-100/90-60 is considered normal. Be aware that blood pressure medications may have side effects such as dizziness (it is advisable to consult the prescribing physician). Secondly, consider the possibility of cer...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Head Pain in Elderly Patients: Causes and Solutions
Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Weight has been continuously decreasing? Hello, doctor. Since January of this year, my weight has dropped from 43 kg to 39 kg, but I haven't been exercising much, and I eat three meals a day without any issues with appetite. Should I see a doctor about this? (In February, I ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, abnormal weight loss is defined as a decrease of 3% in one month, 5% in three months, or over 10% in six months. It is recommended to visit a hospital for further evaluation.[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Understanding Abnormal White Blood Cell Percentages: When to Consult Family Medicine
Abnormal percentage of white blood cell differential? Hello Doctor: My lab report shows the following abnormalities: Neutrophil %: 77.4 (reference range: 41.7-73.7%); Lymphocyte %: 14.8 (reference range: 18.4-45.0%); Eosinophil %: 0.6 (reference range: 0.7-8.1%); Globulin: 2.60 (...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended that you provide a report for your ongoing physician to evaluate, so they can determine whether a referral or consultation for treatment is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal White Blood Cell Percentages: When to Consult Family Medicine
Low White Blood Cell Count: Should You Be Concerned?
Low white blood cell count in health checkup? Hello! A white blood cell count of 3.28 k/uL is considered low (leukopenia). It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and monitoring. Depending on the underlying cause, it could potentially lead to s...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, based on your values, it seems that your white blood cell count is low. A low white blood cell count indicates a decreased immune capacity, making you more susceptible to infections. I would like to know if you are experiencing any other discomfort, such as fever, chills, ...[Read More] Low White Blood Cell Count: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and Expert Advice
Hair loss issues Hello, doctor. I am 149 cm tall and weigh 48 kg. I work as a civil servant and have been sitting at a desk for a long time. Recently, I was transferred to a busy and high-pressure unit, and sometimes I even forget to eat breakfast due to the rush. I've been ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, regarding dermatology consultation issues, it is recommended that you seek further advice or consult a dermatologist. For health check-ups, it is advised that individuals over 40 years old should definitely undergo them. You can inquire about the relevant items at various ...[Read More] Understanding Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and Expert Advice
Understanding 'Yin-Yang Eyes' and Sleep Paralysis: Medical Insights
Yin-Yang Eye (the ability to see spirits) and Sleep Paralysis? Hello, doctor. I have a question. My girlfriend seems to have a sixth sense; sometimes she says she can see spirits, which scares her. She feels that during her menstrual period, her body is weaker and she is more lik...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended that you consult a psychiatrist for further diagnosis and evaluation.[Read More] Understanding 'Yin-Yang Eyes' and Sleep Paralysis: Medical Insights
Understanding Muscle Pain After an Injection: When to Seek Medical Advice
Muscle pain Two weeks ago, I visited a clinic due to a cold and received an injection in my arm. Recently, I've been experiencing pain at the injection site. I would like to know if there is any issue and whether I need to see a doctor. If so, which specialty should I consul...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, this is a normal situation and does not require special medical attention.[Read More] Understanding Muscle Pain After an Injection: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Dizziness and Chest Discomfort After Meals: A Medical Perspective
Experiencing dizziness and chest tightness with a desire to take deep breaths often occurs after lunch or during meals? Mid-February: After dinner (Big Mac) at 7:00 PM, I felt dizzy and had chest tightness, which made me want to take deep breaths. The dizziness was severe enough ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, based on the symptoms you described, it seems you may be experiencing psychosomatic issues due to life stress rather than a specific disease. The focus should be on gastrointestinal health and lifestyle adjustments. I recommend that you consult a psychiatrist or a speciali...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Chest Discomfort After Meals: A Medical Perspective
Understanding Groin and Thigh Connection Issues: Symptoms and Next Steps
Issues at the junction of the groin and thigh? When sitting, I feel a blockage sensation at the junction of my left groin and thigh, and afterwards, my entire left leg feels strange no matter how I position it. The sensation of blockage becomes more pronounced when I shift my wei...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended that you consult an orthopedic specialist or a rehabilitation physician for further examination and diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Groin and Thigh Connection Issues: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Unexplained Weight Gain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Weight issues Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about my weight issue. My appetite hasn't particularly increased, and I have regular meals without consuming sweets. I also go to the gym with a professional trainer three days a week, but my weight has still inexplicably incr...
Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, your symptoms do not appear to indicate any specific disease, but you can monitor your blood sugar, lipid levels, and blood pressure through health check-ups. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Gain: When to Seek Medical Advice