Link Between Antibiotic Use and Chronic Pancreatitis: What You Need to Know
The relationship between antibiotic use and chronic pancreatitis? Dr. Hong: Hello! A few days ago, I fell off my motorcycle, which caused my duodenal ulcer to flare up again. After taking medication, it has improved significantly. However, on the night after my anterior cruciate ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Chronic pancreatitis is primarily caused by alcohol consumption, gallstones, and hyperlipidemia. It can lead to postprandial abdominal discomfort, steatorrhea, and diarrhea, which may also be related to antibiotic use. Therefore, it is essential to follow up with a gastroenterolo...[Read More] Link Between Antibiotic Use and Chronic Pancreatitis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Pancreatic Cancer Screening
Elevated CA19-9 levels? In early February, I underwent a health check-up, which included a pancreatic cancer screening. My CA19-9 level was 51.08. What further examinations should I undergo, and what specific tests should be conducted?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
The pancreatic cancer markers CEA and CA19-9 have been noted. Therefore, it is recommended to undergo an ultrasound examination and follow-up at a gastroenterology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Pancreatic Cancer Screening
Essential Reading for High School Students Interested in Medicine
excuse me? I would like to ask a question. I am a high school student with a strong interest in medicine. Could you recommend some essential books for beginners? Also, is there a Latin dictionary available? Since I am not in Taiwan, I plan to take Latin next year because I want t...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
To transition from high school to medical college, in addition to passing exams, one must first complete prerequisite courses in basic knowledge areas such as anatomy, biochemistry, organic chemistry, biology, physiology, parasitology, microbiology, and others before entering cli...[Read More] Essential Reading for High School Students Interested in Medicine
Understanding Phages: Structure, Host Interaction, and Medical Applications
Phages, or bacteriophages, are viruses that specifically infect and replicate within bacteria. They The scientific name for phage is "bacteriophage." Its structure is unique in that it typically consists of a protein coat (capsid) that encases its genetic material, whic...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Phages, also known as bacteriophages, can propagate and parasitize between bacteria. They have applications in medicine, which falls under the realm of basic microbiology. Further inquiries can be made in the microbiology departments of various medical schools.[Read More] Understanding Phages: Structure, Host Interaction, and Medical Applications
Chronic Cold Sensitivity and Headaches: Possible Causes and Solutions
Fear of cold. Headache? Doctor, I sometimes feel very cold, and even wearing many layers of clothing or hiding under a blanket doesn't help. Then I experience headaches and body aches. I have seen a doctor who said it was a cold, and medication provided some relief, but it s...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Being underweight, having endocrine disorders, low physical activity, and slow metabolism can all contribute to this issue. It is advisable to follow up with outpatient care (internal medicine) for treatment.[Read More] Chronic Cold Sensitivity and Headaches: Possible Causes and Solutions
Dietary Guidelines for Managing Kidney Disease and Heart Conditions
Diet for Kidney Disease My father has a history of coronary artery disease, and he has experienced proteinuria, as evidenced by foamy urine, for some time. He has previously consulted both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine, but his symptoms do not seem to have imp...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: In addition to blood lipids, there are other factors related to coronary heart disease. The causes include diet, medications, and genetic metabolism. Furthermore, hyperuricemia can lead to kidney damage, resulting in proteinuria. It is recommended to follow up with a cardi...[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Managing Kidney Disease and Heart Conditions
Managing Gout: Key Questions for Effective Treatment and Prevention
Gout Hello Doctor: I am 34 years old and have experienced gout attacks three times this year (approximately once a year). Currently, I am not taking any medication for prevention or treatment. I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. Since I often have irregular sleep patter...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Gout is a joint disorder caused by the overproduction or impaired excretion of uric acid metabolites (purines). In addition to dietary management, alcohol consumption and hydration are also important factors. During acute attacks, colchicine and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory dru...[Read More] Managing Gout: Key Questions for Effective Treatment and Prevention
Diabetes Meal Plan: A Week's Guide for Managing Blood Sugar
Diabetes Weekly Meal Plan Hello: My father was recently diagnosed with diabetes, with a blood sugar level of 262. He is currently taking one Glipizide tablet every morning. My father is 168 cm tall and weighs 95 kg. Could you please advise on the appropriate portion sizes and typ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your father's blood sugar is 262 (before or after meals)? This is above the standard value, and it is advisable to consult with an endocrinologist and a nutritionist.[Read More] Diabetes Meal Plan: A Week's Guide for Managing Blood Sugar
Understanding Adrenal Issues: Weight Gain and Health Concerns
~Adrenal gland issues~ Hello Doctor: Last week, I visited the endocrinology department at Kaohsiung Medical University because I gained 25 kg in a year. I used to weigh 57 kg, and now I weigh 82 kg. I eat very little and do not feel hungry. The doctor suspects that there may be a...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Fatty liver is caused by endocrine disorders, hyperlipidemia, alcohol consumption, or viral hepatitis. Therefore, it may be necessary to treat the underlying conditions, and it is hoped that follow-up can be conducted in the gastroenterology and hepatology department.[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Issues: Weight Gain and Health Concerns
Living with Cirrhosis: Can You Maintain Daily Life Without Medical Care?
Cirrhosis and Daily Life As mentioned in the question, if one does not seek medical attention, can they continue to live normally in the short term?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Cirrhosis is a condition caused by chronic hepatitis that leads to liver damage. It is important to prevent complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and esophageal variceal bleeding. Regular follow-up with a gastroenterologist is recommended.[Read More] Living with Cirrhosis: Can You Maintain Daily Life Without Medical Care?
Understanding Easy Bruising: Possible Causes and Solutions
Minor trauma resulting in subcutaneous hemorrhage? Since childhood, I have bruised easily from minor bumps, often not even knowing how I got hurt. I even need stitches for tooth extractions. What could this condition be? Is it due to a deficiency in clotting factors?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Bleeding tendency or coagulation dysfunction may be due to low platelet count or insufficient coagulation function. Please follow up at the internal medicine outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Easy Bruising: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Genetics, Symptoms, and Treatment
Thyroid disease-related issues? Hello, I saw a doctor in elementary school who indicated that I had thyroid-related issues. I experienced pain until my fourth year of university, but there was no swelling. Later, I discovered that my mother has similar symptoms. I would like to k...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
The thyroid gland is part of the metabolism and endocrine system. In the past, conditions were primarily caused by iodine deficiency, but in recent years, cases related to endocrine disorders have become increasingly common. Please follow up in the internal medicine outpatient cl...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Genetics, Symptoms, and Treatment
Understanding Lupus: Causes, Treatment, and Dietary Considerations
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) The patient experiences persistent nosebleeds, low platelet count, purplish spots on the skin, and hair loss. What could be the cause of these symptoms? With the current level of medical care, is it possible to treat this condition? Is this a he...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
This condition is a challenging disease to treat in internal medicine and requires regular follow-up treatment. It is an autoimmune dysfunction disorder that should be managed by a specialist in allergy, immunology, and rheumatology to prevent the occurrence of complications.[Read More] Understanding Lupus: Causes, Treatment, and Dietary Considerations
Effective Strategies for Gaining Weight: High-Calorie Foods to Consider
How to gain weight? Dr. Hong: Hello, I would like to ask: I weigh 44 kg and am 170 cm tall, which is quite thin! How can I gain weight? Could you please provide specific foods that are high in calories? I really need your advice, please. I feel that my body proportions are not go...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Based on your height-to-weight ratio, your weight is indeed on the lower side. However, weight loss can be related to factors such as body composition, diet, and endocrine issues (such as diabetes or thyroid dysfunction). Therefore, it is recommended to first follow up with an in...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Gaining Weight: High-Calorie Foods to Consider
Essential Health Check Insights: Anemia, Low Blood Pressure, and Urinary Issues
Health check-up After a health check-up, the following symptoms were found. What should I pay attention to? Thank you! 1. There is anemia, with both hematocrit and hemoglobin levels being inadequate, and his blood pressure is 110/60 (which is considered low blood pressure). Wha...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Anemia may be due to excessive loss or bone marrow disorders, requiring further diagnosis. Hematuria combined with elevated uric acid levels can lead to kidney damage and chronic renal failure. It is recommended to follow up with a nephrology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Essential Health Check Insights: Anemia, Low Blood Pressure, and Urinary Issues
Optimal Bedtime for Healthy Development in Children
Development What time is best for sleeping to support development?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
1. It is recommended that you go to bed before 10 PM every day. 2. Ensure you get at least 6 hours of sleep.[Read More] Optimal Bedtime for Healthy Development in Children
Understanding Cholesterol and Uric Acid Levels: Risks and Treatment Options
Borderline cholesterol levels with accompanying uric acid? My cholesterol levels are around 110-120. What are the potential complications? How should it be treated? I have a uric acid level of about 22. Are there any interactions between these two conditions? Is medication treatm...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
1. Cholesterol (CHOL TG) includes two main components, and it is important to pay attention to the cholesterol content in your diet. Regular exercise is essential, and quitting smoking is also necessary. If hyperlipidemia persists, it is advisable to consider lipid-lowering medic...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol and Uric Acid Levels: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Kidney Atrophy: Treatment Options and Prognosis
Renal atrophy Dr. Hong's friend's mother is 73 years old and was found to have kidney atrophy and significant loss of function during an examination three months ago, nearing the threshold for dialysis. Dr. Hong has a few questions: 1. Can kidney atrophy recover to no...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Believing in traditional Chinese medicine or folk remedies, rather than following standard medical practices, is a common misconception among the population. This often leads to delays in seeking appropriate medical attention or exacerbates the condition. Kidney atrophy generally...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Atrophy: Treatment Options and Prognosis
Caffeine: The Hidden Link to Dizziness and Palpitations
Caffeine = Dizziness + Palpitations Dear Doc, I feel that whenever I drink coffee or tea (beverages high in caffeine), I easily experience dizziness, unsteadiness, and inexplicable palpitations for several minutes. When I don't consume them, these symptoms are less likely to...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Stimulant foods such as coffee and tea (which contain caffeine) can easily trigger increased heart rate and arrhythmias. There is a direct relationship between the two, so it is advisable to avoid them as much as possible. If there are any issues, please follow up at the cardiolo...[Read More] Caffeine: The Hidden Link to Dizziness and Palpitations
Thyroid Surgery Concerns: Should I Proceed or Wait?
I'm sorry, but I need content to translate? Hello Doctor: I am a 50-year-old patient with thyroid issues and underwent thyroid surgery about 20 years ago. My current condition has recurred for approximately ten years, with examination results indicating a benign thyroid tumo...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid dysfunction and goiter should first be monitored and treated in a metabolic and endocrine outpatient clinic, as the complications and sequelae that arise require professional knowledge. Additionally, if an internist recommends surgery, it is important to choose a skilled ...[Read More] Thyroid Surgery Concerns: Should I Proceed or Wait?