Can Nuclear Medicine Imaging Alone Confirm Myocardial Infarction?
Can a myocardial infarction be definitively diagnosed solely based on nuclear medicine imaging? Hello, my mother recently went to a hospital for an examination and received the following report: NUCLEAR MEDICINE REPORT TL-201 MYOCARDIAL PERFUSION SCAN A TI-201 myocardial perfus...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Wang Ziyi, Myocardial infarction refers to the ischemic necrosis of myocardial cells, while myocardial ischemia indicates that the coronary arteries are unable to supply sufficient blood, leading to hypoxia of the myocardial cells without cell death. Therefore, myocardi...[Read More] Can Nuclear Medicine Imaging Alone Confirm Myocardial Infarction?
Understanding Adrenal Hormone Injections: Side Effects and Management
Injection of adrenal hormones? Hello Dr. Ke, I would like to ask some questions. My friend has an endocrine issue, which he says is a hereditary condition, and he has developed acute renal failure. During one of his episodes, he mentioned that he went to the hospital to receive...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Replying to Bear: I have not heard of injecting adrenal hormones for acute renal failure. Injecting epinephrine can lead to increased heart rate, vasoconstriction, and cold sweats. It should not be administered casually. I recommend visiting a hospital to consult with the endocri...[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Hormone Injections: Side Effects and Management
Understanding Low Hemoglobin Levels: Causes and Specialist Guidance
Abnormally low hemoglobin levels? The health check report from my first year of high school indicates that my hemoglobin level is abnormally low. What effects could this have? If I need to see a doctor, which department should I visit?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Ruoye: There are many reasons for low hemoglobin levels, such as iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, hemolytic anemia, and aplastic anemia, among others. It is recommended to visit a hospital and consult with a hematologist or oncologist for a detailed examination and t...[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin Levels: Causes and Specialist Guidance
Understanding Right Ventricular Hypertrophy: Implications and Care Tips
Cardiology Doctor: Hello! Recently, my mother’s blood pressure suddenly rose above 100. She went to the hospital for blood tests and an electrocardiogram (ECG). The ECG report indicated right ventricular hypertrophy and damage to the heart membrane. Could you please explain what ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
I recommend visiting a hospital's cardiology department for a detailed examination, including an echocardiogram and an electrocardiogram (ECG), to better understand the severity of the condition. Generally, both regional hospitals and medical centers have cardiologists who c...[Read More] Understanding Right Ventricular Hypertrophy: Implications and Care Tips
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Do You Need Long-Term Medication?
Heart disease I was diagnosed with arrhythmia in September 2000, and the doctor informed me that I would need to take medication long-term. However, another doctor at a different hospital, while treating me for another condition, told me that I did not need to take medication lon...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
There are many types of arrhythmias, varying in severity. Mild cases may not require medication, while more severe cases may necessitate surgery or catheter ablation. It is advisable to consult a cardiologist for a thorough examination and follow-up.[Read More] Understanding Atrial Fibrillation: Do You Need Long-Term Medication?
Understanding Elevated Heart Rate: Causes and Solutions for Adults
Heart rate Hello, I am a 55-year-old male. My blood pressure is within normal limits, but my heart rate is as high as 90, sometimes even reaching 100, without any vigorous exercise. In the past, I had low blood pressure, and my heart rate was in the range of 80 to 90. I would app...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Peter: A rapid heartbeat with normal blood pressure is generally caused by anxiety or the consumption of caffeinated beverages. It is recommended to visit a cardiology clinic for an electrocardiogram (ECG) examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Heart Rate: Causes and Solutions for Adults
Understanding the Mechanism of Sex Hormones in Growth Plate Closure
Mechanism of Action of Sex Hormones At the end of puberty in both males and females, the continuous secretion of sex hormones leads to a gradual thinning of the growth plates, ultimately resulting in their disappearance. Could you explain the mechanism of action behind this proce...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Reply to Ms. Jane: Sex hormones promote the growth and maturation of chondrocytes and osteoblasts. The maturation of these cells leads to the fusion of the growth plates, resulting in the cessation of growth.[Read More] Understanding the Mechanism of Sex Hormones in Growth Plate Closure
Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine for Kidney Health Maintenance
Herbal Remedies for Kidney Health Hello! I would like to ask if it is true that some traditional Chinese medicines have the function of nourishing the kidneys. Thank you!
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
In response to the question about herbal medicine for kidney maintenance, from the perspective of a nephrologist, I do not believe that there are any herbal remedies that can be definitively proven to have a protective effect on the kidneys. Furthermore, in Taiwan, there is a wid...[Read More] Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine for Kidney Health Maintenance
Rare Salmonella Infection in Father's Heart: A Critical Medical Case
My father's right heart vessel is infected with Salmonella, and his condition is critical..? My father suddenly experienced chest tightness, shortness of breath, and chills around 3:40 PM on August 12. My mother urgently took him to the New Building Hospital in Tainan. After...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
In response to Su Wenting: Based on your description, it may be infectious vasculitis with associated aortic aneurysm. Typically, treatment involves antibiotics for two to four weeks while also managing hypertension. If there is no improvement or if the condition worsens, surgica...[Read More] Rare Salmonella Infection in Father's Heart: A Critical Medical Case
Managing Excessive Sweating and Fatigue: A Guide for Allergy Sufferers
What should I do? Hello, doctor. In the past few months, I've been sweating profusely with even slight physical activity, and I've also been experiencing a runny nose. I feel dizzy and generally weak. I have a history of allergies, and with the heat being so intense, I&...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Swallow: If allergic rhinitis is causing severe nasal discharge, it can generally be effectively controlled with medication. If there is excessive sweating and emotional tension, in some patients, it may be due to hyperthyroidism, which can be diagnosed through testing.[Read More] Managing Excessive Sweating and Fatigue: A Guide for Allergy Sufferers
Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Back Pain?
Which department should I see? Hello, Dr. Ke. For the past 1 to 2 years, I have occasionally experienced sudden sharp pain in my lower back, as if something is stabbing my bones, and recently, the pain in my lower back has returned. Which department should I consult if I want to ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, you can first schedule an appointment with orthopedics for your lumbar spine issue.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Back Pain?
Understanding Aortic Tortuosity: What You Need to Know
Aortic coarctation? Hello Dr. Ke: During my full body check-up last year, this condition was discovered. I usually don't have any unusual symptoms, I occasionally smoke (no more than one cigarette a day), I don't have a habit of drinking alcohol, and I go to bed early. ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Mr. Jiang: Based on your description, it appears that the chest X-ray from your health check-up revealed aortic tortuosity, which is mostly a natural change associated with aging. However, it is important to monitor for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipi...[Read More] Understanding Aortic Tortuosity: What You Need to Know
Are My Armpit Bumps Normal or a Sign of a Health Issue?
Is there any problem with this? I sometimes develop small lumps under my armpit that are round and painful. Someone told me that it could be lymph node accumulation and that it would go away in a few days, which it did. However, I'm concerned that there might be an underlyin...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Hsu Li-wen: If there is a small lymph node in the armpit that resolves quickly, it is more likely due to a localized infection. If the hair removal in the armpit did not cause an infection, the chance of lymphadenopathy should be minimal.[Read More] Are My Armpit Bumps Normal or a Sign of a Health Issue?
Persistent Chest Pain: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
hurt I have been experiencing heart pain for 21 hours (maybe more) from 11 PM to 9 PM. I cannot take deep breaths, laugh, or perform any physical activities. Initially, I thought I would feel better after going to bed, but when I woke up the next morning, the pain persisted. Brea...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ivy: Your symptoms may be related to valvular heart disease, neuralgia, pleuritis, or anxiety. I suggest you come to the hospital for a chest X-ray and EKG studies to confirm the final diagnosis, and the doctor can provide you with the appropriate treatment.[Read More] Persistent Chest Pain: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Is Long-Distance Flying Safe for Patients with Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Is it safe for individuals with mitral valve prolapse to undertake long flights? I am experiencing shortness of breath, numbness in my hands, chest tightness and pain, and sudden cold sweats. After undergoing an echocardiogram, the doctor mentioned that I have some palpitations a...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Kuang: Seroxat is a mild sedative that can alleviate symptoms of palpitations and anxiety. It can be taken regularly for a period of time, and the medication should only be discontinued after symptoms have resolved. Generally, individuals with mild mitral valve prolapse ca...[Read More] Is Long-Distance Flying Safe for Patients with Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions and Concerns
Questions about Mediterranean anemia? Dear Sir/Madam, Regarding the concerns about thalassemia, I would appreciate your response to the following questions regarding my eldest daughter, who is 9 years old and in the second grade of elementary school. During a blood test conducte...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Tracy: Mediterranean anemia can range from mild to severe and is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. If one parent carries the gene, the child may only have a mild form, typically without symptoms. If there is no severe anemia, treatment and blood transfusions are g...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions and Concerns
Understanding Uremia: Symptoms, Kidney Inflammation, and Care Tips
Uremia Urinary uremia is said to be caused by kidney inflammation. What are the symptoms of kidney inflammation? I've been feeling strange in the lower back on both sides recently. Also, how can I take care of my kidneys? What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, A-Feng: In cases of kidney inflammation, it is essential to perform a urinalysis, along with testing for BUN and creatinine levels to assess your kidney function. Generally, uremia is indicated by BUN levels greater than 100 and creatinine levels greater than 10, accompani...[Read More] Understanding Uremia: Symptoms, Kidney Inflammation, and Care Tips
Understanding Growth Potential: Can You Still Grow Taller After Age 15?
Height I have had my bone age assessed twice, and it was determined to be 15 years old. According to medical standards, girls typically stop growing taller around the ages of 14 to 15. However, my doctor mentioned that my bones could continue to grow until I reach 18 years old. I...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, sister: 1. Whether further growth will occur depends on whether the X-ray growth plates have fused. If they have not fused and the individual is 15 years old, there may still be a chance for growth, but it varies from person to person. 2. For growth hormone testing, it is ...[Read More] Understanding Growth Potential: Can You Still Grow Taller After Age 15?
Is It Safe for Teens to Use Weight Loss Supplements? Expert Advice
Weight loss I am 15 years old and want to lose weight. I've always wanted to take weight loss pills, but I'm afraid they might affect my growth and development. However, someone recommended Herbalife to me, saying it is a natural product that can be consumed by all age ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, A-Rong: At the age of 15, which is still a developmental stage, weight loss should ideally be conducted under the guidance of a physician and a nutritionist to avoid improper dieting that could affect growth and health. Herbalife is a meal replacement approved by the Depar...[Read More] Is It Safe for Teens to Use Weight Loss Supplements? Expert Advice
Understanding Anemia: Why Multiple Tests May Be Needed for Diagnosis
Anemia Is it true that anemia is difficult to diagnose? I have undergone four tests at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, but they still cannot determine which type of anemia I have. They asked me to come back for another test in a month, and I find this quite strange.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Miss Lin Yanxing: There are many causes of anemia, ranging from iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia to bone marrow disorders. Therefore, in addition to blood tests, stool examination and menstrual history, even a bone marrow biopsy may be necessary. Please consult a hemat...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Why Multiple Tests May Be Needed for Diagnosis