Understanding Red Spots on Skin: Causes and Concerns Explained
There are small red spots on the body? Hello, I occasionally have small red spots on my body that resemble moles. They are not itchy or painful, and they do not appear to be formed on the surface of the skin, so I suspect they may be caused internally. This condition has persiste...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: Please schedule an appointment with the dermatology clinic.[Read More] Understanding Red Spots on Skin: Causes and Concerns Explained
Persistent Cough and Mucus: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Inquiry about cough and excessive phlegm? Hi, I have been coughing, experiencing excessive phlegm, sore throat, and nasal congestion for a week. I have taken cough suppressants, expectorants, and anti-inflammatory medications, but my condition has not improved. Should I undergo a...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to visit the otolaryngology clinic again to check for sinusitis.[Read More] Persistent Cough and Mucus: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Uric acid Dr. Tsai: I have a habit of donating blood, and the blood donation center also checks some health parameters for us. One of these is the uric acid level, which is 7.1. It shows that the normal range for males is 3.5 to 7.2! It is clearly approaching the high end of the ...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: In addition to genetics and a high-purine diet, elevated uric acid levels are significantly influenced by medications, alcohol consumption, and being overweight. Therefore, in addition to dietary control and increased water intake, it is also important to limit alcohol con...[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Can Adults Safely Consume Quaker Complete Nutrition? Potential Side Effects Explained
About complete nutritional supplements? Can an average adult consume Quaker Complete Nutritional Drink? Are there any side effects? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
According to the Quaker website, Quaker Complete Nutrition is specifically designed for patients with kidney disease who are in the dialysis stage. It provides balanced nutrition tailored to the needs of kidney patients while also being palatable, easy to digest, and easy to abso...[Read More] Can Adults Safely Consume Quaker Complete Nutrition? Potential Side Effects Explained
Managing Workplace Stress and Health Issues: A Guide for Professionals
Physical issues Hello, Doctor: 1. I would like to ask how to improve persistent discomfort in the brain caused by previous work-related issues. 2. If there is time-sensitive pressure at work, how can I improve this? How can I create more flexibility to handle work tasks? Additio...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
The resolution of workplace stress relies on enhancing one's abilities, adjusting psychological adaptation, and improving company systems and structures. These areas are more specialized for psychiatrists and psychological counselors, so it is recommended to seek consultatio...[Read More] Managing Workplace Stress and Health Issues: A Guide for Professionals
How to Choose the Right Pillow for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief
Pillow I've been having trouble sleeping lately, and my neck and shoulders have been sore. I'm not sure if it's due to my pillow. I would like to know how to choose a pillow that is suitable for me. Can you please advise me on how to check and resolve my issue? Tha...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to consult the Rehabilitation Department for this condition. I believe that the rehabilitation physician can not only provide treatment but also guide you in resolving your concerns regarding your pillow.[Read More] How to Choose the Right Pillow for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief
How to Register Palliative Care on Your Health Insurance Card in Taiwan
How can one apply for the signing or notation of "palliative care" on their health insurance card? Hello, how can I process the signing or notation of "palliative care" on my health insurance card? Best regards, Jofon Fu.
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
You can request the "Advance Directive for Palliative Care" from the Taiwan Hospice Organization, and after filling it out, submit it to the organization for registration.[Read More] How to Register Palliative Care on Your Health Insurance Card in Taiwan
Understanding Persistent Body Pain After Fever: A Guide for Patients
The frustrating symptoms make it difficult for me to live normally? A little over a month ago, I experienced a series of sudden fevers. After taking medication, the fever returned a few days later. At that time, I did not see a doctor and instead went to a local pharmacy to get s...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing some muscle inflammation as a sequela of a viral infection, such as the common cold. It is recommended that you consult a rehabilitation specialist for a detailed diagnosis and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Body Pain After Fever: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Chest and Upper Back Injuries: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Injury to the left chest and upper back due to gravitational compression? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have experienced compression in my left chest and upper back. The front of my chest was subjected to mechanical pressure from a screw with a diameter of 1.8 cm and a length of approximate...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: Chest compression due to gravity may lead to pneumothorax, hemothorax, rib fractures, and damage to the chest wall muscles, which can cause rhabdomyolysis and subsequently result in acute kidney failure. Kidney disease may also lead to secondary hypertension and proteinuri...[Read More] Understanding Chest and Upper Back Injuries: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Is Excessive Mint Consumption Harmful? A Look at Long-Term Effects
Mint enthusiasts Hello, I am inquiring on behalf of my father. He really enjoys the refreshing sensation of mint, so he has been chewing Airwaves super cool gum for at least 10 years, preferring the stronger and more intense flavors. Additionally, he suffers from nasal allergies,...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Peppermint can have an irritating effect on mucous membranes, and excessive use may cause damage to them. Please visit an otolaryngologist for an evaluation by a physician.[Read More] Is Excessive Mint Consumption Harmful? A Look at Long-Term Effects
Experiencing Dizziness When Standing? Essential Checks You Should Consider
excuse me? In the past six months, whenever I stand up after sitting or squatting, I experience a sudden feeling of dizziness and lightheadedness, making it hard to stand. I understand that this is related to blood flow issues when changing positions, and it's common for eve...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: It is recommended that you first visit a family medicine specialist for evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Experiencing Dizziness When Standing? Essential Checks You Should Consider
Understanding Raised Veins on Knees: Causes and Concerns
Prominent blood vessels in the knee? I have raised, vein-like stripes on my knee and thigh. My family says it's because I've grown too fast and my skin is stretching. Is that correct?
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: Without seeing or touching, it is difficult to make a guess. Please visit the cardiology department for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Raised Veins on Knees: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lip Ulcers: Causes and Concerns in Family Medicine
Lip ulcer Hello Doctor: I have multiple small sores on both my upper and lower lips, and one in my throat. They are all small and not painful, and I do not have a fever or rash, nor have I developed any blisters. My overall energy is good, my appetite is fine, and I am sleeping w...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: If it is a bacterial oral ulcer, there may be swelling and pain in the cervical lymph nodes. If not, it could be a common oral ulcer. However, I recommend that you visit an otolaryngologist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.[Read More] Understanding Lip Ulcers: Causes and Concerns in Family Medicine
Understanding Oral Granules and Polyps: Causes and Treatment Options
Numerous small nodules and polyps have developed in the oral cavity and at the corners of the mouth? Hello Doctor: I live in Yunlin County. Here is a picture of my oral cavity: http://entn.tk/img/1276185337x-595385012.jpg. I would like to ask you about something. Recently, I have...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: The photos you took are not very clear. I recommend that you consult a specialist familiar with oral issues, such as a dentist or an otolaryngologist (ENT). If you have already visited a general clinic, local hospital, or regional hospital, I suggest you seek treatment at ...[Read More] Understanding Oral Granules and Polyps: Causes and Treatment Options
Is Boiled Tap Water Safe? Understanding Cancer Risks and Health Concerns
Drinking tap water? Is drinking boiled tap water carcinogenic? Is the risk high?
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello, sir: I am not a toxicology expert, but I have made an effort to find some information from the Taiwan Water Company and the Environmental Protection Administration website. Please refer to the section on trihalomethanes in Chapter 1 at the Environmental Protection Administ...[Read More] Is Boiled Tap Water Safe? Understanding Cancer Risks and Health Concerns
Understanding Symptoms: Back Pain Above the Spine and Disc Issues
Dementia symptoms Hello Dr. Tsai, thank you for taking the time to respond. I would like to ask about the area above the buttocks and at the lower end of the spine (is it the intervertebral disc?) that has been sore for over a year. Recently, the soreness has worsened to the poin...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
It is possible that there is a muscle or ligament injury near the lumbar or sacral region. It is recommended that you consult an orthopedic specialist. However, it could also be related to a gynecological condition, so if there is no progress with the orthopedic evaluation, you m...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Back Pain Above the Spine and Disc Issues
How Long After Stopping Medication Can Men Plan for Pregnancy?
How long should a man wait to plan for pregnancy after stopping the use of anticonvulsants? Hello, doctor! My husband has been taking Depakote for eight months. After the doctor monitored his EEG, he stopped taking the medication, and it has now been four months. Can we plan for ...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello: The use of Depakote may lead to male infertility due to a decrease in sperm count. It is recommended to consult a reproductive specialist (obstetrician-gynecologist or urologist) for a fertility plan. Additionally, it is advised that your husband also consult a neurologist...[Read More] How Long After Stopping Medication Can Men Plan for Pregnancy?
Are ATM Electromagnetic Waves Harmful to Your Health?
Electromagnetic Wave Issues Doctor, is the electromagnetic wave from ATMs very strong? I have five ATMs placed about one meter away from my desk. Could this have any adverse effects on my health? I'm quite concerned.
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
Hello Mr. Chang: I checked on Google, but I'm still not very clear about what you mean by ATM (as far as I understand, ATM refers to an Automated Teller Machine). Could you please email me again and provide further details about what you mean by ATM?[Read More] Are ATM Electromagnetic Waves Harmful to Your Health?
Understanding Electromagnetic Waves: Insights for Family Medicine
Electromagnetic Wave Issues I apologize, but when I mentioned ATM, I was referring to a regular automated teller machine.
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
I checked the literature and it seems that no one has researched or discussed the non-ionizing radiation hazards of ATMs, so I am unable to answer your question. I suggest you consult with the company's occupational safety personnel or reach out to the Occupational Safety an...[Read More] Understanding Electromagnetic Waves: Insights for Family Medicine
Frequent Colds: Is Your Immune System Declining?
I have been catching colds frequently lately? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing frequent colds over the past six months, sometimes getting sick twice a month and at other times once every two months. Is this a sign that my immune system is weakening, or could there be other ...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan reply Family Medicine
If you are experiencing more frequent colds, it is important to pay attention to this. Please schedule an appointment with an infectious disease specialist for an examination, especially during cold episodes. Additionally, avoid excessive fatigue, ensure adequate sleep, engage in...[Read More] Frequent Colds: Is Your Immune System Declining?