Understanding Numbness in Limbs: When to Seek Medical Advice
Numbness in the limbs? Dear Dr. Lai, My mother has been experiencing numbness in her limbs for the past year or two. Initially, it occurred about once a week, but recently it has increased to two or three times a week. Could this be due to poor blood circulation? Interestingly, ...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, there are many potential causes for numbness in the limbs, often related to issues with the circulatory or nervous systems. If the cause of the symptoms is unclear, it is advisable to first consult a family medicine physician or seek care at a...[Read More] Understanding Numbness in Limbs: When to Seek Medical Advice
Do Cell Tower Electromagnetic Waves Affect Health and Cancer Risk?
Do electromagnetic waves from base stations affect health? Hello Dr. Lai: There are several cellular base stations installed on a high building near my home (about 100 meters away). They have been in place for about ten years, and I recently heard that many people living nearby h...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: The radio frequency signals emitted by mobile phone base stations or fixed antennas are a type of non-ionizing radiation that does not produce thermal effects. Generally, the output power of a base station is around 100 watts or more, which is significantly lower than the ...[Read More] Do Cell Tower Electromagnetic Waves Affect Health and Cancer Risk?
Managing High Blood Pressure: Treatment, Prevention, and Specialist Guidance
High blood pressure? My mother is 45 years old, and today her blood pressure was measured at 150/100, which is classified as hypertension. How should hypertension be treated? Does she need to take medication? What are the methods to prevent and lower high blood pressure? Which me...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: If your mother has had multiple measurements (at least three, at different times, and while at rest) with blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mmHg, she is diagnosed with hypertension. The causes of hypertension are classified as primary and secondary. When a ...[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure: Treatment, Prevention, and Specialist Guidance
Understanding Normal Reference Ranges for Total and Direct Bilirubin Levels
Could you please clarify what you mean by "Director's mailbox forwarding"? The normal reference range for total bilirubin is typically between 0.1 to 1.2 mg/dL, while the normal range for direct (conjugated) bilirubin is usually between 0.0 to 0.3 mg/dL. Please ref...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, each laboratory has its specific units and reference value standards for various tests, so I cannot provide the standard values set by the Department of Health for these two tests. At our hospital (Keelung Hospital, Department of Health), the ...[Read More] Understanding Normal Reference Ranges for Total and Direct Bilirubin Levels
Common Health Concerns: Lymph Nodes, Dizziness, and Fava Bean Syndrome
excuse me? 1. Is the small round feeling on the left and right sides of the neck (near the Adam's apple) a swollen lymph node? 2. Why do I feel dizzy when I suddenly stand up after sitting down? 3. Can patients with G6PD deficiency use medicated oil?
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. The nodules on both sides of the Adam's apple could potentially be enlarged lymph nodes, subcutaneous cysts, or thyroid nodules. It is recommended to consult a physician for an accurate diagnosis. 2. This is a symptom of orthostat...[Read More] Common Health Concerns: Lymph Nodes, Dizziness, and Fava Bean Syndrome
Effective Weight Loss Strategies for College Students: A Guide
How can I lose weight? Hello Doctor! I am from Keelung and have struggled with obesity since childhood. I am 170 cm tall and weigh 85 kg. Recently, due to my weight, my girlfriend broke up with me, and my weight dropped to around 78-79 kg within three weeks. I know this is not he...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question. For your friend: there is no special method for weight loss, only the principle of "eat less and move more." Your original Body Mass Index (BMI=29.4) has already reached the standard for Class I obesity. Currently, due to a breakup, ...[Read More] Effective Weight Loss Strategies for College Students: A Guide
Long-Term Use of Muscle Relaxants: Tips to Avoid Side Effects
Muscle relaxants Dear Doctor, due to my neuropathic pain condition, my doctor has prescribed muscle relaxants and analgesics. What should I be aware of regarding the long-term use of these medications to avoid side effects or burdening my body?
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, long-term use of muscle relaxants should be monitored for increased liver burden, and regular liver function blood tests are recommended. Additionally, central nervous system side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, and incre...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Muscle Relaxants: Tips to Avoid Side Effects
Understanding Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor for Relief
Foot soreness and pain? Hello Dr. Lai: I have been experiencing soreness and pain in my left foot for the past two months, particularly near the lower back area. This discomfort radiates down to my left heel, and whenever I sit for more than ten minutes, I feel weakness and soren...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question, the individual is experiencing numbness and tingling in the left foot that extends to the left heel, which worsens with prolonged sitting. Based on the patient's complaints, the most likely causes are nerve compression symptoms or poor bl...[Read More] Understanding Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor for Relief
Understanding Back Pain: When to See a Specialist for Your Symptoms
Low back pain I have a history of ankylosing spondylitis. Previously, I would wake up in the morning with pain in my lower back and back. However, in the past month, I have been waking up around 4-5 AM with pain in my left lower back and near the bladder, which improves somewhat ...
Dr. Lai Junlong reply Family Medicine
Hello: In response to your question regarding the patient's issue: Common causes of lower back pain include overuse or injury to muscles, ligaments, or joints. Additionally, conditions such as joint degeneration, herniated discs, joint subluxation, and spinal stenosis can le...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: When to See a Specialist for Your Symptoms