Understanding Low Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Blood test issues? Hello, doctor. This is my blood test conducted on May 8th. Although all results are below the reference values, could they be too low and cause any issues? Thank you. Test Item Unit Result Value Reference Value Anti-Tg Thyr...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
●To conclude: No. ●The reason for drawing these tests is usually due to suspicion of thyroid enlargement, and the blood tests aim to determine whether there is an autoimmune thyroid disease. The two tests you had are both thyroid autoimmune antibodies (generally to rule out hypot...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Chest Pain: Esophageal Issues and Endoscopy Insights
Chest pain, esophageal issues, endoscopy? Hello, Doctor. I accidentally swallowed a fish bone on the evening of April 26. I visited the ENT department on the afternoon of April 27, where the doctor noted only throat inflammation and could not see the fish bone. He advised that if...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● It has been approximately 2 weeks. If there were a severe esophageal or gastrointestinal perforation, the symptoms would be quite serious; currently, there are no such signs, so you can be somewhat reassured. Generally, if a fishbone is present in the digestive tract, it should...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Esophageal Issues and Endoscopy Insights
Does Exercise or Fasting Affect Hemoglobin Levels in Blood Tests?
Anemia - Hemoglobin Hello, doctor: May I ask if exercising before a blood draw can cause a decrease in hemoglobin levels? Does fasting before a blood draw affect hemoglobin levels? At what time of day is hemoglobin typically at its lowest? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Exercise does not significantly lower hemoglobin levels and may even increase them due to slight dehydration. ● Fasting or non-fasting does not affect hemoglobin levels. ● Hemoglobin levels are more likely to decrease after blood loss (such as during menstruation). Wishing you ...[Read More] Does Exercise or Fasting Affect Hemoglobin Levels in Blood Tests?
Understanding Low Vitamin B12: Anemia and Health Implications
Regarding low levels of vitamin B12? I would like to ask the doctor again: I usually do not experience dizziness when squatting; does this mean I do not have anemia? Additionally, my vitamin B12 levels are lower than average. Could this be due to a possible hematopoietic dysfunct...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Anemia should not be assessed solely based on whether one experiences dizziness; it is advisable to have a blood test, as women are prone to iron deficiency anemia due to menstrual cycles. ● Vitamin B12 deficiency may present with mild symptoms such as fatigue; however, severe ...[Read More] Understanding Low Vitamin B12: Anemia and Health Implications
Managing Anxiety and Health Concerns After Epididymitis: A Guide
Some questions? Hello, doctor. I tend to be a very pessimistic thinker, and recently I developed epididymitis. I have seen a doctor and have been on antibiotics for three weeks. My symptoms have improved significantly, but whenever I feel slightly uncomfortable, such as pain in t...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Physical discomfort and mental health can influence each other, and sometimes it is difficult to tell oneself not to think that way. There are many relaxation and stress relief methods available in bookstores or online that you can try. Additionally, talking with friends and fa...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Health Concerns After Epididymitis: A Guide
Understanding Suspected Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Symptoms and Insights
Suspected Antiphospholipid Syndrome Hello, doctor. At the beginning of January this year, I suddenly experienced sharp chest pain, followed by numbness in my limbs. After that, I had many symptoms, such as sudden body jerks that would wake me up when I was about to fall asleep, i...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Antiphospholipid syndrome is typically diagnosed due to venous and arterial thrombosis or recurrent miscarriages in women of childbearing age. It is an autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of "antiphospholipid antibodies" in the blood, which cause blood to...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Symptoms and Insights
How to Relieve Stomach Pain After Eating Pineapple?
What should I do if I experience stomach pain after eating pineapple? Hello: Recently, it is the peak season for pineapples, and I buy one every two to three days. It's no problem for two people to eat one! Today, I ate half of one and experienced stomach pain, but it only l...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● General pesticide residues are unlikely to cause stomach pain; it may be due to sensitivity to the acidity or enzymes in pineapple, or possibly due to food not being fresh enough. ● If discomfort persists, you should consult a family medicine or gastroenterology specialist for ...[Read More] How to Relieve Stomach Pain After Eating Pineapple?
Understanding Low Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients: Causes and Solutions
Patients with hypertension experiencing persistently low blood pressure? About ten years ago, my father was diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, and since then, he has been regularly having blood tests and follow-up appointments. His blood pressure has generally been well-controlle...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Low blood pressure may be caused by the strong effects of antihypertensive medications, and it is recommended to adjust the medication. Other potential causes include dehydration (such as from diuretics for hypertension), low blood volume (possibly due to chronic blood loss), a...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients: Causes and Solutions
Should You See a Doctor for Lingering Taste Bud Issues After Antibiotics?
Oral issues Hello doctor, my friend had inflammation and took antibiotics, and it's been almost a month since they stopped the medication. Recently, they are still experiencing abnormal taste sensations (the flavors seem diminished). Should they see a doctor?
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● In principle, it will gradually improve. If you still experience taste abnormalities after one or two weeks, please visit the otolaryngology department at a medical center for further evaluation. Generally, smaller hospitals may not be able to conduct detailed taste assessments...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Lingering Taste Bud Issues After Antibiotics?
Understanding Throat Pain: Causes and Remedies for Inflammation
Oral pain? The area in the throat connected to the nose has a hard part in the front and a soft part in the back (the hard part is behind the upper row of teeth in the mouth, and the back part is soft). I've been experiencing extreme pain in the soft area for the past few da...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
The affected area is located at the soft palate, which is likely due to a recent infection and inflammation. Generally, it should improve gradually within a few days. However, for acute pain issues, it is recommended to seek further evaluation and treatment from an otolaryngologi...[Read More] Understanding Throat Pain: Causes and Remedies for Inflammation
Understanding Bruising in Sensitive Areas: When to Seek Medical Attention
Pelvic hematoma Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about an incident that happened while I was preparing for sexual activity with my girlfriend. I accidentally got pricked by a new stainless steel pin that she had hanging from her waist, which injured the glans. There was so...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
The blood flow in the penile area is significant, and there may be considerable bruising, which could take two to three weeks to gradually subside. However, due to the high blood flow in that area and the possibility of needle puncture, there is a risk of bacterial infection. Ple...[Read More] Understanding Bruising in Sensitive Areas: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Abdominal Pain: A Comprehensive Guide for Women
Abdominal pain issues? Doctor, my friend is 37 years old and has been experiencing abdominal pain after her menstrual period for the past few months. Sometimes, the pain also occurs before her period. Her menstrual flow is normal, but at times the pain is severe enough to affect ...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● It is important to first determine whether abdominal pain is related to menstruation. Discomfort experienced before menstruation is referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), with common symptoms including breast tenderness, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, mood swings, sleep dis...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: A Comprehensive Guide for Women
Understanding Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Medical Help
Shortness of breath? Hello Doctor, I currently have the following conditions: 1. Occasionally, I need to slightly open my mouth and take a deep breath to feel a sense of lung expansion (I usually do not have significant stress or anxiety). 2. I find myself yawning more frequently...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Considering your age, the likelihood of severe cardiopulmonary abnormalities is low. The sensations of chest tightness and difficulty breathing should first rule out atopic conditions (such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis) that may cause respiratory discomfort. ...[Read More] Understanding Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding TMJ Disorders: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) Hello Doctor, due to extremely poor sleep quality, I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and underwent orthognathic surgery. On the day after the surgery, I experienced significant pain in the upper part of both eyes. It has been a year and a hal...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● The initial impression is that the postoperative pain issue is related to the extensive involvement of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves in orthognathic surgery. If there have been no issues after multiple visits to neurology, ophthalmology, or otolaryngology, it is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Chest pain? I have been experiencing sharp pain in the upper right chest area near the ribs for over a month. However, it doesn't hurt every day; it only occurs occasionally in a specific location. Pressing on the area with my fingers also causes some sharp pain. Additionall...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● If there is a fixed pain point, it is likely musculoskeletal in nature, possibly due to cartilage or fascia inflammation. It is advisable to visit a pulmonologist or a family medicine physician for an X-ray to rule out any fractures or pulmonary issues. ● Other potential causes...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Oral Warts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Oral cauliflower (also known as oral warts or oral papillomas) I am 16 years old and have developed some strange pink bumps under my tongue, about 10 in total, some are separate and some are connected. I am concerned because I performed oral sex on a stranger three weeks ago, so ...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● If you suspect warts, you may want to consult an otolaryngologist. If the diagnosis remains uncertain, you can also visit a dermatologist for further evaluation. ● Treatment options for warts include cryotherapy, electrosurgery, laser therapy, topical wart removal medications, ...[Read More] Understanding Oral Warts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Chest Pain?
Which department should I see? I often experience chest pain, ranging from the upper inner left chest to the upper inner right chest. Yesterday at noon, while trying to take a nap, I suddenly felt intense pain in the center of my chest halfway through lying down. It hurt whether ...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● Many specialties have ruled out related issues. If the pain occurs primarily when lying down, consider problems such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal ulcers, or pancreatitis. It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist or a family medicine physician for...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Chest Pain?
Understanding Unexplained Itching: When to See a Family Physician
Which department to see? Doctor, I have recently been experiencing itching on my face, hands, and feet, but there is no redness or swelling on my skin, and the itching is not localized to one specific area. What could be causing this? Which specialist should I consult?
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
There are many causes of skin itching, numbering in the dozens. However, considering your age, the primary factors should be dry skin, skin inflammation (such as eczema, allergies, or contact dermatitis), and insect bites. A small portion may be related to internal medical condit...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Itching: When to See a Family Physician
Understanding Your Child's Unusual Symptoms: Taste, Hunger, and Weight Changes
Physical discomfort? Hello doctor, my daughter has been experiencing a strange taste in her mouth, and I'm not sure if it's due to dryness or some other issue. She feels hungry in the morning after waking up and also feels hungry four hours after lunch (which wasn'...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
Hello, the issues mentioned above are similar to those in these three articles: https://goo.gl/wb3Ssj, https://goo.gl/Mr0a2n, https://goo.gl/9mwJ3C. Regarding the content: "Sometimes feeling hungry may be related to gastrointestinal discomfort, including gastritis or pepti...[Read More] Understanding Your Child's Unusual Symptoms: Taste, Hunger, and Weight Changes
Understanding Weight Loss: Anxiety and Other Possible Causes
Weight loss Hello~ I have noticed a weight loss of 4 kilograms over the past two months. Last month, I underwent an endoscopy due to stomach discomfort, which revealed mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). At that time, I had lost one or two kilograms, but after taking med...
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
The most common causes of weight loss are gastrointestinal issues, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, dyspepsia, and malabsorption due to insufficient secretion of digestive enzymes from the pancreas. Following that, endocrine problems (such as hyperthyroidism, which you have ru...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Anxiety and Other Possible Causes