Understanding Mitral Valve Insufficiency: Concerns and Care Tips
Cardiac Issues Dr. Ke: Hello, I experienced mitral valve regurgitation due to a cold and fever during my childhood. In 1986, during a health check-up, the doctor informed me that my heart was enlarged and recommended urgent surgery for repair, which I underwent in May of that yea...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Yuequan: After heart valve surgery, it is essential to continue follow-up care with a cardiologist and to adhere to long-term medication therapy. It is normal for the heart to remain slightly enlarged after the surgery, so there is no need for excessive concern. A low-so...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Insufficiency: Concerns and Care Tips
Understanding Persistent Dizziness and Nausea in Elderly Patients
Headache Hello, I would like to inquire about my mother. Since she fainted last November (the doctor said it was due to a lack of thyroid hormone and advised her to drink more electrolyte solutions), she has been experiencing dizziness and nausea. She has a history of hypertensio...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Kany: Based on your description, your mother has hypertension, dizziness, and suspected intestinal adhesions. It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a neurologist to adjust her antihypertensive and dizziness medications. Additionally, for the issue of intestinal ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Dizziness and Nausea in Elderly Patients
Understanding Blood Urea Nitrogen: Differences and Clinical Significance
Urea and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Dr. Ke: Hello. I would like to ask you about the renal function test items, specifically the definition of blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The name of the test is blood urea nitrogen, but in the explanation, it only mentions urea and not nitrogen. So...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Hsiao-Fen: This question is answered by Dr. Yang Te-Cheng, a nephrologist. Clinically, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine are commonly used as indicators of kidney function. When kidney function declines, the values of these two indicators will increase; however, ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Urea Nitrogen: Differences and Clinical Significance
Understanding Right Side Back Pain and Its Possible Connections
Medical consultation Hello Dr. Ke, In the past month or two, I have frequently experienced a tingling sensation in the lower right side of my back. Recently, I have also been feeling pain in my right heel while walking. I'm wondering if there is a connection between these ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Hsieh, This symptom is most likely caused by postural misalignment leading to neuromuscular strain and inflammation. Treatment and rehabilitation therapy would be beneficial.[Read More] Understanding Right Side Back Pain and Its Possible Connections
Protecting Your Child from Pigeon Droppings: Risks and Prevention
Pigeon droppings Pigeons frequently perch on the windowsill of my home, leaving droppings behind. I've heard that pigeon droppings can contain Cryptococcus, which can cause meningitis. I am very concerned about the risk of infection for my ten-month-old infant. What are the ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Huang: Pulmonary cryptococcosis is similar to typical pneumonia, presenting with symptoms such as fever and cough. Chest X-rays may show abnormal shadows, and antigen testing can be performed through blood samples for confirmation. Inhaling pigeon droppings does not nec...[Read More] Protecting Your Child from Pigeon Droppings: Risks and Prevention
Understanding Hypoxia: Symptoms and Potential Causes in Adults
Cerebral hypoxia I have the following symptoms: there are two cords under both ears that run down along my neck, and I often feel a tightness in my throat. Additionally, the muscles in the back of my neck feel very tense, and pressing on them causes soreness. These symptoms frequ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Jen: Your symptoms seem to be caused by excessive tightness in the neck muscles, which is often due to lack of sleep or overexertion. You can start with local heat therapy, and if necessary, you may consult a rehabilitation specialist for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Hypoxia: Symptoms and Potential Causes in Adults
Understanding Thyroid Function and Allergies: A Patient's Inquiry
Medical consultation Thank you, Dr. Ke, for your letter. I have visited the general surgery outpatient clinic and had a blood test to check my thyroid function. The test results were normal. The doctor prescribed antihistamines and some hormones. I also experience wheezing at tim...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Lu, There are many reasons for experiencing shortness of breath while walking. Arranging for pulmonary function tests, exercise electrocardiograms, and chest X-rays can serve as initial screenings to identify the cause.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function and Allergies: A Patient's Inquiry
Understanding Dizziness: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Dizziness Hello: I have been feeling dizzy for the past few days, and I don't have any cold symptoms. Why could this be happening? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Wei: There are many causes of dizziness, including insomnia, colds, anemia, inner ear balance issues, and medication effects. Please first visit an otolaryngologist for an examination, and if necessary, you will be referred to a neurologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Moderate Myocardial Ischemia: Severity, Treatment, and Lifestyle Tips
Moderate myocardial ischemia Hello Dr. Ke: How serious is moderate myocardial ischemia in terms of heart disease? What are the treatment options? Additionally, what should patients pay attention to in their daily activities and diet? Thank you!
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Mr. Wu: For myocardial ischemia, the diet must be low in fat, low in salt, and low in cholesterol, and long-term follow-up treatment at a cardiology clinic is essential. If there are conditions such as hypertension or diabetes...[Read More] Understanding Moderate Myocardial Ischemia: Severity, Treatment, and Lifestyle Tips
How to Distinguish Between Kidney Pain and Lower Back Pain?
Kidney pain? Lower back pain? How can I differentiate between kidney pain and back pain? Sometimes I experience pain on one side, and my urine has small bubbles that do not dissipate! I have had an ultrasound, but the doctor couldn't find anything specific and only mentioned...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Lili: If there is kidney inflammation, routine urine tests typically show an increase in white blood cells and red blood cells. If the urine is normal, lower back pain is mostly caused by muscle strain or fascia inflammation. If you have any questions, please consult a urol...[Read More] How to Distinguish Between Kidney Pain and Lower Back Pain?
Unexplained Symptoms: Understanding Cold and Hot Flashes, Back Pain, and Weakness
Unexplained symptoms Intermittent chills and fever, lower back pain, and weakness in the limbs.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Lulu: There is a high likelihood that your symptoms indicate a urinary tract infection (pyelonephritis). You need to go to the hospital for a urine test and treatment. (Please consult a urologist.)[Read More] Unexplained Symptoms: Understanding Cold and Hot Flashes, Back Pain, and Weakness
Tips for Better Sleep Management for High School Students
Sleep regulation Hello Doctor, I am a high school freshman. I have to wake up at six o'clock, but I can't hear the alarm clock and I don't want to ask my parents for help. The winter break is almost over, and I still sleep for twelve hours a day. Please give me s...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Student W: If you are sleeping too much and reluctant to get up, as long as there are no specific illnesses, it is advisable to increase the volume of your alarm clock and place it out of reach of your hands. Most importantly, try to go to bed at a regular time (between 10 ...[Read More] Tips for Better Sleep Management for High School Students
Understanding Vascular Spasm: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Vasospasm Dr. Ke: Last time I asked you about the pain point that moves with the blood vessels and has a palpable pulse, and you mentioned it might be vascular spasm. I have searched for a lot of information but couldn't find anything related, so I would like to ask you agai...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the causes of vascular spasms are numerous, including vasculitis, thrombosis within the blood vessels, poor function of venous valves, or consumption of stimulants such as coffee and tea. It is recommended to follow up with a cardiology clinic for further evaluation, as va...[Read More] Understanding Vascular Spasm: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Understanding Shogren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
What is Shy-Drager syndrome? My mother has been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort for over ten years, with frequent abdominal pain and diarrhea. Doctors believe she has colonic dysmotility and have also mentioned irritable bowel syndrome. In recent years, she has been diag...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Tsai: Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by symptoms such as chronic dry eyes, dry mouth, keratoconjunctivitis, and difficulty swallowing (due to reduced saliva), as well as bilateral parotid gland enlargement. It often coexists with other au...[Read More] Understanding Shogren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Dizziness While Swimming: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Dizziness while swimming? Hello, doctor: I personally experience discomfort, such as dizziness and nausea, when swimming or soaking in hot springs if the water level exceeds my chest for half an hour to an hour. I've heard that this might be related to heart issues. Is that ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Mark: Before swimming, it's advisable to do some warm-up exercises and gradually acclimate to the water temperature before entering the pool. If the water temperature is very high (above 40 degrees Celsius), limit your time to 15 minutes at a time, then take a break an...[Read More] Dizziness While Swimming: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Understanding Unexplained Pain: Causes and Insights from Internal Medicine
Unexplained pain Hello, Dr. Ko: I often experience unexplained pain that moves along with my blood vessels. Each time I touch the painful area, I can feel the pulse beating, and with each pulse, there is a corresponding pain. Sometimes it occurs in my neck, and other times in my ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, you may be experiencing vascular spasms. It is recommended to exercise more and take warm baths. Avoid coffee and strong tea, as these changes may help improve your symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Pain: Causes and Insights from Internal Medicine
Understanding Unusual Heart Symptoms: Dizziness, Palpitations, and Weakness
My heart feels strange? Dizziness, palpitations, continuous shortness of breath, generalized weakness and numbness, and occasional chest pain.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Mini: It is common for young women to experience symptoms such as palpitations and shortness of breath. Common causes include anxiety, arrhythmias, and asthma. It is advisable to follow up with a cardiology clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Heart Symptoms: Dizziness, Palpitations, and Weakness
Understanding Lip Swelling: Causes and Concerns in Internal Medicine
Consultation symptoms Hello, Dr. Ko... In the past month or two, I have often woken up to find my lips unusually swollen, sometimes the upper lip and sometimes the lower lip. I also frequently feel a sense of fullness in my esophagus. I had surgery for thyroid enlargement about s...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Lu Meixia: The possible cause of lymphedema may be hypothyroidism. The effectiveness of topical ointment treatment is not satisfactory. It is recommended that you visit the endocrinology clinic for examination and treatment of thyroid function.[Read More] Understanding Lip Swelling: Causes and Concerns in Internal Medicine
Understanding Abnormal Urine Protein: Causes and Next Steps for Testing
Abnormal urine protein test? Dear Dr. Ke, About three to four months ago, I underwent a routine health check at my company, during which abnormal protein in my urine was detected. After consulting with the examining physician, I was informed that there were no signs of kidney st...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. L.S., Normal urine color is yellow, and those who take vitamin B supplements may notice a deeper yellow hue. Increased water intake leading to more frequent urination can result in clearer urine. If there is an increase in protein or minerals, the urine may appear foamy...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urine Protein: Causes and Next Steps for Testing
Understanding Helicobacter Pylori: Causes of Bad Breath and More
Helicobacter pylori I found online that "Helicobacter pylori" can cause bad breath when fasting or feeling hungry. Since I have regular oral check-ups with my physician every year, it should not be related to oral hygiene. Could you please share your thoughts on "H...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, SS: Helicobacter pylori is associated with gastritis and peptic ulcers, but it is not directly related to halitosis. If you are experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, please follow up with a gastroenterology clinic for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Helicobacter Pylori: Causes of Bad Breath and More