Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block in ECG for Seniors
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) Hello Dr. Ke: I have a question regarding an electrocardiogram (ECG) examination that I would like to consult you about. I would greatly appreciate your guidance. I came across a common issue where patients inquired about incomplete right bundle bra...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
In response to Rose: If the electrocardiogram shows only incomplete right bundle branch block, it generally does not present any symptoms and does not require treatment. It is sufficient to manage blood pressure effectively and to have regular follow-ups with a cardiologist to mo...[Read More] Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block in ECG for Seniors
Understanding Rhabdomyolysis: Causes, Risks, and Prevention Tips
Rhabdomyolysis What are the causes of rhabdomyolysis? I've heard that excessive exercise can lead to it; is it really that serious? How can it be avoided or prevented?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Reply to Kavun: Rhabdomyolysis often occurs due to heat stroke, electrical shock, burns, or drug toxicity. To prevent it during exercise, make sure to stay well-hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.[Read More] Understanding Rhabdomyolysis: Causes, Risks, and Prevention Tips
Understanding Sinus Bradycardia: What Does a Heart Rate of 41 BPM Mean?
Bradycardia What is sinus bradycardia with a heart rate of 41 beats per minute?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Reply to EUGENE: A heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute that originates from the sinoatrial node is referred to as sinus bradycardia. If there are symptoms such as dizziness or hypotension, treatment is necessary. If there are no symptoms, follow-up in a cardiology outpati...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Bradycardia: What Does a Heart Rate of 41 BPM Mean?
Understanding Blood Types, Mental Health Concerns, and Genetic Mapping in Medicine
Question Hello, Dr. Ke: I have a few questions I would like to ask you, and I hope you can provide some guidance! 1. Blood types include O, A, B, and AB. What is the Rh factor? To which blood type does it belong? 2. When I was a baby, my parents were in a car accident, and I...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Reply to Jack: 1. Blood types are primarily classified into A, B, O, and Rh positive or negative. There are other blood types as well, but most hospitals focus on these two classifications for testing. Rh negative is quite rare among the Chinese population. 2. Psychoneurosis requ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Types, Mental Health Concerns, and Genetic Mapping in Medicine
Understanding Chest Pain: Heart Issues or Other Causes?
Heart disease or thoracic issues? Hello, doctor. Sometimes I experience pain in my left chest and a feeling of weakness. I suspect it might be a "heart problem" (but I have had an electrocardiogram in the past that showed no abnormalities). What treatment should I seek?...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
In young individuals, the most common cause of chest pain is neuromuscular inflammation due to tension, followed by pleuritis, pericarditis, or mitral valve prolapse. Please visit a thoracic clinic for evaluation, which should include a chest X-ray and echocardiogram.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Heart Issues or Other Causes?
Understanding Blood Pressure Discrepancies Between Arms: Key Insights
The difference in blood pressure between the two arms is too significant? Yesterday, I measured my blood pressure on my left arm and got 130/80, while on my right arm it was 160/95. I measured twice and got the same results. Today, I measured my left arm three times and got readi...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Mingxin: Normal blood pressure at rest should be below 140/90 mmHg, with a difference between both arms of 10-15 mmHg. Electronic blood pressure monitors can be affected by interference and movement, so it is advisable to take multiple readings. Ensure that both arms are st...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Discrepancies Between Arms: Key Insights
How to Differentiate Recurrent Rheumatic Conditions: A Patient's Guide
How can recurrent rheumatic fever be distinguished? Hello Doctor: I have the following questions I would like to ask you! I have been experiencing aching pain in my joints, particularly in my hands and feet, during rainy days and before weather changes, and it has been progressiv...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Doris: There are many causes of arthritis in young women. In addition to gout and rheumatoid arthritis, I recommend that you visit an orthopedic specialist for further examination and treatment. New anti-inflammatory pain relievers are effective and less likely to cause gas...[Read More] How to Differentiate Recurrent Rheumatic Conditions: A Patient's Guide
Is It a Heart Problem? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Further Testing
Is this a heart problem? Hello Doctor: I previously had an electrocardiogram (ECG) at the hospital, which lasted only one to two minutes. The doctor diagnosed me with a slight arrhythmia and said it was nothing to worry about. However, I felt that my condition during the ECG was ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Young males can occasionally experience arrhythmias, but most are benign and transient. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, coffee, and tea, as well as maintaining a regular routine, is crucial. If symptoms persist and cause discomfort, a 24-hour Holter monitor can be arranged. Thyroid fu...[Read More] Is It a Heart Problem? Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Further Testing
Understanding Heart Valve Issues and Hypertension: Risks and Treatments
Heart disease & hypertension Hello, Dr. Ko. My boyfriend has been experiencing chest tightness due to stress for quite some time, to the point where he couldn't sleep. After much persuasion, he finally went to the hospital for an examination. He said the doctor informed ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
If a young male has a blood pressure of 180/130, he must seek emergency treatment for malignant hypertension and be hospitalized for further evaluation to determine the cause of the hypertension. Unless there are severe congenital anomalies or abnormalities of the heart and major...[Read More] Understanding Heart Valve Issues and Hypertension: Risks and Treatments
Can People with High Uric Acid Levels Drink Broth from Purine-Rich Foods?
Uric acid Dear Doctor: Can individuals with high uric acid levels drink soup made from high-purine foods (such as milkfish and mushrooms), or should they avoid eating fish and mushrooms altogether? Thank you!
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
It is still not recommended for individuals with high uric acid levels to consume soups made from high-purine foods.[Read More] Can People with High Uric Acid Levels Drink Broth from Purine-Rich Foods?
Understanding Arrhythmia: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Arrhythmia Arrhythmia is defined as an irregular heartbeat, which can manifest as a heart that beats too fast, too slow, or in an uncoordinated manner. Treatment for arrhythmia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It can range from lifestyle changes and ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Xiaowen: It is common for young women to experience occasional palpitations and irregular heartbeats. However, if the symptoms persist, it is recommended to undergo a 24-hour Holter monitor and consult a cardiologist for examination and treatment (avoid coffee and tea beve...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Marfan Syndrome: Symptoms and Health Concerns
What is troublesome syndrome? Long limbs, long fingers, poor eyesight, and recently experiencing discomfort in the heart.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Marfan Syndrome is a congenital genetic disorder characterized by long limbs and fingers, dislocated lenses affecting vision, and an increased risk of heart valve problems and aortic dissection. Therefore, if you experience any cardiac discomfort, please seek evaluation fr...[Read More] Understanding Marfan Syndrome: Symptoms and Health Concerns
Why Is My Blood Darker After a Test? Dietary Factors Explained
Question Hello Dr. Ke: I would like to ask you something. After my blood is drawn, the color of my blood appears darker than others. Could this be related to my diet? Please provide some clarification, thank you. Wishing you good health and happiness.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: For young individuals, 1. if hemoglobin levels are elevated, 2. if certain medications cause a reduction in hemoglobin, it may appear darker, 3. if there are signs of hypoxia, it may also appear darker. It is essential to go to the hospital for examination to confirm the d...[Read More] Why Is My Blood Darker After a Test? Dietary Factors Explained
Managing Tuberculosis: Nutrition, Treatment, and Family Safety Tips
Tuberculosis (TB) Hello Doctor, My brother has recently been diagnosed with tuberculosis. His physical condition is poor, he is malnourished, and his immune function is not very good. The medications used to treat tuberculosis have hepatotoxic effects. I would like to know if su...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Jenny: 1. Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis should increase their protein intake (fish, meat, eggs, and dairy are all good options). Supplementing with vitamins can also be beneficial. It is important to avoid alcohol and fried foods, and to regularly monitor liver funct...[Read More] Managing Tuberculosis: Nutrition, Treatment, and Family Safety Tips
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Management, and Treatment Options
Mitral valve prolapse Could you please tell me, doctor... my girlfriend has this condition... and it has been occurring frequently lately... she is feeling very uncomfortable... can you advise me on how to cope with this disease? Is there really no cure for this condition?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Raken: Mitral valve prolapse is quite common in young women. The symptoms include occasional palpitations, chest pain, and a feeling of tightness in the chest, but it usually does not affect cardiac function, so it can be considered a relatively benign condition. Common psy...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms, Management, and Treatment Options
Understanding Tetanus Symptoms and When to Get a Tetanus Shot
What are the symptoms of tetanus? If someone is stabbed by a knife or scissors, is there a risk of tetanus? Is it necessary to receive a tetanus shot? What are the symptoms of tetanus? Please let me know. Thank you.
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Ms. Yuequan: In cases of injuries caused by contaminated sharp objects, bamboo splinters, or dog bites, in addition to thorough wound debridement, receiving a booster tetanus vaccine is beneficial for preventing the occurrence of tetanus. Symptoms of tetanus include genera...[Read More] Understanding Tetanus Symptoms and When to Get a Tetanus Shot
Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block: Risks and Prevention
Incomplete right bundle branch block Hello Dr. Ko: Recently, my electrocardiogram report indicated "incomplete right bundle branch block." I found very little information online and I'm not quite sure what it means, so I'm reaching out to you. Could this lead ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Reply to Mr. Tsai Shou-Ching: It is common for young individuals to have incomplete right bundle branch block on their electrocardiogram, and it typically does not require specific treatment. We hope you can follow up with a cardiologist for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block: Risks and Prevention
Managing Athlete's Foot: Tips for Teens and Common Concerns
HG feet Hello Doctor: I am a first-year high school student and have been troubled by athlete's foot in recent years (it should be athlete's foot, right?). What should I do for care? What should I do if a hole has developed? Is it possible to avoid using my health insur...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Reply to Mr. A-ya: The patient has athlete's foot (also known as tinea pedis), which is a fungal infection of the feet. It typically occurs in warm, humid conditions and is contracted through contact with contaminated surfaces. Treatment usually requires a sustained period, ...[Read More] Managing Athlete's Foot: Tips for Teens and Common Concerns
Understanding Chronic Chest Pain: Insights and Guidance for Young Adults
Persistent chest pain? Hello Dr. Ke, I have been experiencing intermittent chest pain since childhood. Initially, I didn't think much of it, assuming it was due to a fall I had when I was younger. However, it has deeply affected me to this day! I consulted a cardiologist wh...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Zhao Wenlong: Based on your description, there are several possible causes: (1) Mitral valve prolapse (often seen in tall and slender individuals) (2) Esophagitis (gastroesophageal reflux) (3) Neuritis or pleuritis. I recommend that you visit St. Mary's Hospital or ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Chest Pain: Insights and Guidance for Young Adults
Managing Diabetes: Should Surgery Be Delayed for High Blood Sugar?
Diabetes mellitus Hello Dr. Ke: My mother is 63 years old and has had diabetes for seven years. She has hard skin on her feet, and the orthopedic doctor suggested surgery to remove it. However, my mother's blood sugar levels have been over 300 recently, which indicates she i...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
If surgery is not urgent, it is recommended to stabilize blood sugar levels before proceeding with the operation.[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Should Surgery Be Delayed for High Blood Sugar?