Understanding Liver Health: Addressing Concerns About Rough Liver Surface
Liver I have been troubled by chronic bad breath for a long time, so I went to see a gastroenterologist. They were unwilling to perform any other tests and just said, "Just take medication," but I didn't believe that! Fortunately, I encountered a meticulous family ...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello, The first issue to consider regarding bad breath is gum bleeding, and the second is cavities. This means that oral hygiene is the most important factor. If there are no issues related to the above, then gastrointestinal problems should be considered, such as gastritis, g...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Addressing Concerns About Rough Liver Surface
Understanding Injection Site Reactions: Causes and Concerns
Injection site wound Hello doctor, my mother went to the hospital for an injection, and she mentioned that it was an intramuscular injection. However, the injection site on her arm has a wound with a diameter of about 0.4 cm, and the surrounding area is red, swollen, and inflamed...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Redness and swelling around the injection site are generally caused by inflammation. Possible reasons include incomplete disinfection, unclean needles, or post-injection wound infections, commonly referred to as cellulitis. If the condition is severe, hospitalization may b...[Read More] Understanding Injection Site Reactions: Causes and Concerns
How to Lower Elevated Neutrophil Percentage in Blood Tests?
Blood test issues? To restore the percentage of neutrophils to normal levels, which in your case is above the standard value (70.4% compared to the normal range of 65%), it is important to identify and address the underlying cause. Here are some general steps that may help: 1. *...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: An elevated neutrophil count may indicate a recent infection or inflammation in some area (it is best to correlate with other data). The underlying cause should be identified; if no cause is found and there are no physical symptoms, a follow-up appointment can be scheduled...[Read More] How to Lower Elevated Neutrophil Percentage in Blood Tests?
Understanding Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions for GERD Patients
Halitosis I still have bad breath even after brushing my teeth, and it is so foul that it makes people choke when I talk to them! I have seen both a dentist and a gastroenterologist, and my teeth are normal, but I do have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Q: Do people wit...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello, the most common cause of bad breath is periodontal disease or gingival inflammation caused by cavities. If dental issues have been ruled out, then gastrointestinal or liver diseases should be considered. Conditions such as peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (...[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions for GERD Patients
Understanding Unexplained Headaches and Tonsillitis: Treatment Options
Headache Hello Doctor: In recent months, I have been experiencing frequent unexplained headaches and tonsillitis. Sometimes it is triggered by a cold or lack of sleep, but at other times it occurs suddenly. Besides seeing an ENT specialist, what further treatments can I pursue? T...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello, recurrent tonsillitis is often caused by tonsillar hypertrophy or allergic conditions. Sometimes it can be due to poor physical condition, such as excessive fatigue or lack of sleep. If tonsillar hypertrophy is present, some physicians may recommend a tonsillectomy. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Headaches and Tonsillitis: Treatment Options
Understanding Protruding Eyes in Children: Causes and Treatment Options
Protrusion of the eyes in children? The child has protruding eyes (already in first grade), but thyroid tests are normal. Which specialty should be consulted? Is medication treatment possible? What are the potential effects if left untreated?
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: If you have protruding eyes, you should first see an ophthalmologist to rule out any structural issues with the eyeball before considering other internal medical problems. As for whether treatment is necessary, we can discuss that once the results are available. Thank you ...[Read More] Understanding Protruding Eyes in Children: Causes and Treatment Options
Essential Tests for Diagnosing Lupus: A Guide for Family Medicine
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) issues? What are the tests for lupus erythematosus? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Anti-dsDNA Antibody (Anti-double-stranded DNA Antibody) Anti-Smith (Anti-Sm) Antibody (Anti-Smith Antibody) Anti-IgG Antibody (Rheumatoid Factor) (Anti-IgG Antibody [Rheumatoid Factor])[Read More] Essential Tests for Diagnosing Lupus: A Guide for Family Medicine
Understanding Sleep Paralysis: Causes and Solutions Explained
Sleep paralysis? I have never experienced this before... Yesterday, in a half-awake state... I felt as if I was being pressed down on my bed and couldn't get up... I called out but received no response, and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't shake off the pressure.....
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: This experience is quite common for many people. Typically, if the body is overly fatigued during the day, if there is excessive exercise before sleep, or if there is prolonged screen time leading to eye fatigue, during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is when dreamin...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Paralysis: Causes and Solutions Explained
Understanding Ear Pain When Swallowing: Causes and Solutions
Ear pain when swallowing saliva? Dear Dr. Tsai: For the past two days, I have been experiencing pain in my ears while swallowing saliva. My temperature is 37.4 degrees Celsius. I would like to ask the doctor what this could be. Thank you!
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Experiencing ear pain while swallowing saliva may indicate several issues: 1. Eustachian tube obstruction: This could be due to a cold or otitis media. 2. Malocclusion of the temporomandibular joint: This may result from chronic teeth grinding or dental misalignment. 3. Ca...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain When Swallowing: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Belly Button Discharge: Causes and Concerns
Umbilical discharge? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I discovered a small tumor near my navel that emits a foul odor, which is quite unpleasant. I'm wondering if this could be a sign of an internal illness manifesting through my navel. Which organ is connected to the navel? Is...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Discharge from the navel or lower abdominal pain should be classified as intestinal issues. It is recommended that you visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic at Hualien Hospital as soon as possible. Dr. Tsai Jue-ren.[Read More] Understanding Belly Button Discharge: Causes and Concerns
Am I Experiencing High Blood Pressure Symptoms?
Is this considered high blood pressure? Hello Doctor: Two years ago, my grandmother had a stroke, and I started measuring blood pressure regularly with her. At that time, her systolic pressure was around 60. Six months later, my grandmother no longer lived with us, so I stopped m...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Hypertension is typically defined as a systolic blood pressure greater than 138 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure greater than 88 mmHg. However, there are always exceptions. Given your family history, but without knowing your height and weight, if your statement is accura...[Read More] Am I Experiencing High Blood Pressure Symptoms?
Exploring Chronic Pain: Insights on Possible Lupus and Treatment Options
Thank you and I have a follow-up question? Dr. Tsai is very grateful for your response, and I have thoroughly researched your suggestions. There seems to be a possibility of lupus (I dare not make assumptions and will seek medical attention). I have been seeking treatment primari...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello, the medications you are taking include general pain relievers such as paracetamol and muscle relaxants. If your pain is bearable, please try to endure it, as pain medications can lead to increased dosages over time. I recommend that you try gentle stretching exercises in t...[Read More] Exploring Chronic Pain: Insights on Possible Lupus and Treatment Options
Understanding Shortness of Breath: Causes and When to Seek Help
Shortness of breath? Hello: I have been experiencing this shortness of breath for three days, and the frequency of episodes is increasing each day. The symptoms include feeling unable to catch my breath, and even taking a deep breath does not relieve the discomfort after a few se...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your age, your condition can be assessed as follows: The first possibility is hyperventilation syndrome, which occurs when involuntary rapid breathing leads to a decreased concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood. This often results in symptoms such as numbnes...[Read More] Understanding Shortness of Breath: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding the Myths of Big Hospitals: A Patient's Perspective
The Myths of Large Hospitals Dear Dr. Tsai, First of all, thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I believe that those who ask questions online are often confused and seeking answers either before or during their medical treatment. I frequently see dedicated doctors a...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your age and medical history, it is difficult to make an accurate assessment due to the lack of 1. medication records 2. occupation or job history 3. past examination results 4. family medical history. It is suspected that a physician may consider 1. rheumatoid ar...[Read More] Understanding the Myths of Big Hospitals: A Patient's Perspective
Is Anemia Linked to Hair Loss? What to Know and Where to Seek Help
Hair loss? My girlfriend has had thinning hair for a long time. After researching online, she has tried changing shampoos, rarely eats fried foods, and gets plenty of sleep. However, recently, her scalp has become quite visible. She suddenly recalled that she mentioned having ane...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: There are many causes of hair loss, and it is often not due to just one reason. Insufficient hemoglobin, if severe, may require a blood transfusion. As for shampoos, most doctors currently recommend Rogaine. I suggest you visit a major hospital to consult with a dermatolog...[Read More] Is Anemia Linked to Hair Loss? What to Know and Where to Seek Help
Understanding Unexplained Body Aches: Neck, Shoulder Pain, and Dizziness
Generalized body aches? Hello, doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing unexplained body aches, especially in my neck and shoulders, along with dizziness and headaches. Could you please let me know what might be causing this? Thank you for your response!
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: The first consideration for unexplained pain is whether it may be work-related, possibly due to overexertion leading to muscle fatigue. Secondly, it could be caused by excessive exercise or fatigue from lack of sleep. Sometimes, high levels of stress can also contribute to...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Aches: Neck, Shoulder Pain, and Dizziness
Dealing with Bruised Toenails: Should You Wait or Remove?
Nail bruise Hello doctor, my toenail seems to be completely bruised due to my shoes, and it's all black. Some people say I should just wait for the nail to grow out slowly, while others suggest that removing the nail would be faster. The first option seems slow, and the seco...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Darkening of the nails is mostly caused by trauma. The simplest way is to let it fall off naturally, or you can remove it directly. If the new growth at the base of the nail is of normal color, it is recommended to let it fall off naturally. However, if it remains dark, it...[Read More] Dealing with Bruised Toenails: Should You Wait or Remove?
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions for Expecting Parents
Questions Regarding the Diagnosis of Oceanic Anemia Hello Doctor, my wife recently went to the hospital for a routine occupational health check-up. Since I am a carrier of thalassemia, I asked her to also undergo testing for thalassemia. The results were as follows: White blood c...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello, regarding your inquiry, I recommend visiting the website of the Taiwan Thalassemia Association at http://www.thala.org.tw. It contains detailed information, including the screening process for pregnant women. If you have any questions after reviewing the information, pleas...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions for Expecting Parents
Why Am I So Sleepy in Class? Understanding Daytime Drowsiness in College
Napping Hello, Doctor: I am currently a university student. Since I started college, I have noticed that I easily fall asleep during classes. I believe my daily routine and diet are normal. Could you please explain why this is happening? Is there a way to resolve it? In my freshm...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: I apologize for taking your time after just returning from abroad. There are many reasons for insomnia or drowsiness, including caffeinated beverages such as coffee or tea. Excessive mental stimulation, such as playing video games, reading, or browsing the internet, can al...[Read More] Why Am I So Sleepy in Class? Understanding Daytime Drowsiness in College
Neck Stiffness and Poor Concentration: Which Specialist to Consult?
If you frequently experience neck stiffness, you should consult a specialist in either orthopedics or neurology. Thank you? Hello: My neck often feels stiff (I don't know how to describe it), and it feels like blood isn't flowing properly, causing my chin to naturally l...
Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your condition seems to indicate that if there are no issues with hypertension, it may be due to high lipid levels. I recommend that you visit the Family Medicine outpatient department at Hualien Hospital for a fasting blood test to check your cholesterol and triglycerides...[Read More] Neck Stiffness and Poor Concentration: Which Specialist to Consult?