How to Manage a Heart Defect in Infants: A Guide for Concerned Parents
How to manage a child with a heart defect? My baby girl is currently a little over 1 month old and has been found to have a 0.26 cm heart defect. How should we proceed? Will this cause any diseases? What should we be aware of? An anxious dad.
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
You did not specify the location of your little one's heart defect, so I cannot provide you with specific further advice. Generally speaking, congenital heart disease with a so-called defect is more commonly associated with atrial or ventricular septal defects. Some may reso...[Read More] How to Manage a Heart Defect in Infants: A Guide for Concerned Parents
Is It Just Stress? Understanding Unexplained Chest Pain Symptoms
It shouldn't be heart disease, right? Frequent unexplained chest pain and tightness, sometimes requiring significant effort to breathe deeply, while at other times only allowing for shallow breaths, along with palpitations, should not be dismissed as merely stress. It is imp...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Symptoms alone cannot definitively determine whether it is heart disease; they could be indicative or misleading. It is advisable for you to consult a trusted physician for a physical examination, which should help distinguish the possibility of heart disease.[Read More] Is It Just Stress? Understanding Unexplained Chest Pain Symptoms
Long-Term Effects of Glucosamine and MSM on Joint Health
Arthritis Medications and Health 1. I have recently been taking Glucosamine 1000mg and Chondroitin 800mg daily for osteoarthritis. Although these dosages are within the safe range, I am concerned about whether long-term use could negatively affect my digestive and metabolic syste...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Basically, glucosamine and chondroitin are classified as dietary supplements, and there are rarely reported side effects in clinical use; the medication manuals do not mention any. As for MSM, it is unclear what it is; you may want to consult the physician who prescribed it to yo...[Read More] Long-Term Effects of Glucosamine and MSM on Joint Health
Understanding Chest Pain and Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns
Pain near the heart? Sometimes when I sit in a chair or even during regular walking, which isn't intense exercise, my heart starts to race for no reason, accompanied by a feeling of pain. I haven't experienced any trauma so far.
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
I recommend that you get an electrocardiogram (ECG). If that does not provide an explanation or identify any issues, you may need to wear a 24-hour Holter monitor. However, considering your age, the likelihood of having a problem is probably low. Anyway, it's always better t...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: A Guide for Parents
Blood test results Hello: On March 9, 2002, my blood test results were as follows: Triglycerides: 221 mg/dL, Cholesterol: 259 mg/dL, Blood Glucose: 97 mg/dL, Total Protein (TP): 7.6 g/dL, Albumin (ALB): 4.5 g/dL, Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): 86 U/L, Alkaline Phosphatase (ALK...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Hello Mr. Max: Please note that the standard values set for each testing instrument may vary slightly. I will explain your test results as follows: triglycerides 221, cholesterol 259, with other values normal. Both of these values should not exceed 200. I recommend starting with ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: A Guide for Parents
Understanding Hemophilia Genetics: Risks and Considerations for Couples
Hemophilia inheritance Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about information related to hemophilia. 1. My girlfriend's family has a history of hereditary hemophilia. Although my girlfriend does not have hemophilia, does that mean she is a carrier of the hemophilia gene? 2...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
1. If there is a hereditary factor for hemophilia in your girlfriend's family, it is advisable for her to undergo screening to check for any abnormalities. 2. It depends on whether your girlfriend carries the hereditary factor for hemophilia. If she does, then there is a c...[Read More] Understanding Hemophilia Genetics: Risks and Considerations for Couples
Understanding Numbness in Hands and Feet After a Cold
Numbness in the palms and soles? I caught a cold the night before last, and since then, I have experienced numbness in my hands and feet, occasional numbness in my mouth, and episodes of dizziness. I kindly ask the doctor for clarification.
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
It's normal to experience some unusual symptoms when you have a cold, so don't worry![Read More] Understanding Numbness in Hands and Feet After a Cold
Concerns About Height: Can We Limit Growth in Adolescents?
Worried about growing too tall? Hello doctor, I am approximately 170 cm tall, my husband is about 175 cm tall, and our daughter is currently 14 years old and around 165 cm tall. I am concerned that she may grow too tall since she has not yet gone through puberty. Are there any me...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Don't worry! Just go with the flow![Read More] Concerns About Height: Can We Limit Growth in Adolescents?
Understanding Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency: A Patient's Journey
Mitral and tricuspid valve insufficiency Hello, Doctor! Four and a half years ago, I discovered that I had abnormalities related to my cardiovascular system, such as sudden severe chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and abnormal blood pressure. I am currently serving in a military subst...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
I am sorry to hear about your condition, but having an open attitude towards seeking medical help is a positive mindset. If you wish to undergo further examinations to confirm your diagnosis, with the current level of healthcare in Taiwan, any regional teaching hospital or above ...[Read More] Understanding Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Urine Sediment and Odor: Kidney Health Insights
Urine has sediment and an unpleasant odor? Is the presence of elevated urine protein after a physical examination indicative of potential kidney disease, and are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
During a physical examination, if protein is detected in the urine, it is advisable to conduct a retest. Particularly for females, to avoid contamination when collecting a urine sample, it is best to collect a midstream urine sample, as this provides more reliable results. Today,...[Read More] Understanding Urine Sediment and Odor: Kidney Health Insights
Understanding Unpleasant Mouth Odor: Causes and Solutions
Bad breath? Hello Doctor: My girlfriend primarily consumes fruits, blanched vegetables, and steamed buns as her main diet, which is very light. Her daily routine and oral hygiene are also normal, but recently she has been experiencing a persistent bad odor in her mouth, resemblin...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
The causes of bad breath can generally be categorized into three main areas: 1. Oral hygiene 2. Digestive system 3. Respiratory system. It is recommended that your girlfriend first consult a dentist; if there are no issues, she should then see a gastroenterologist.[Read More] Understanding Unpleasant Mouth Odor: Causes and Solutions
Is Your Kidney Inflamed? Understanding Proteinuria and Back Pain
Is it a kidney inflammation? Recently, I underwent a health check-up and found that I have proteinuria and hematuria. I usually experience lower back pain and my diet tends to be high in salt and flavor.
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
I recommend that you redo the urine test. When collecting the urine, remember to first void a small amount and then collect the midstream urine for testing. This method provides more valuable reference data and makes it easier to determine if there is any inflammation. Otherwise,...[Read More] Is Your Kidney Inflamed? Understanding Proteinuria and Back Pain
Understanding Macrocytic Anemia: Causes and Key Considerations
Macrocytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the presence of larger-than-normal red blood cells (macrocytes) in the bloodstream. It is often caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, which are essential for proper red blood cell formation. When managing macrocy...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Macrocytic anemia is one type of anemia, typically caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate. Due to the larger size of individual red blood cells compared to normal red blood cells, there is an increased likelihood of destruction, leading to anemia; hence, it is referred t...[Read More] Understanding Macrocytic Anemia: Causes and Key Considerations
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse and Its Management: Key Insights
Mitral valve insufficiency Hello Dr. Lee: I was diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse accompanied by mild mitral regurgitation and mild tricuspid regurgitation at the end of last year. At that time, the doctor seemed to be in a hurry to leave, so he only told me the diagnosis and ...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
In general, patients with mitral valve regurgitation may not exhibit symptoms, making it difficult to determine how often they should undergo echocardiography. However, there is one prerequisite: if symptoms are present, follow-up is essential. As for whether to have regular or p...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse and Its Management: Key Insights
Is a Blood Pressure of 79/99 Too Low? Understanding Low Blood Pressure Symptoms
Blood pressure If the blood pressure is 79/99, is this too low? It's difficult to wake up in the morning; could this be related to low blood pressure?
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Do you know what your blood pressure is? Is it often measured like this? If it consistently reads 79/69 mmHg, it is indeed on the low side. However, if there are no obvious reasons causing the low blood pressure and it has been consistently this way for a long time, it should not...[Read More] Is a Blood Pressure of 79/99 Too Low? Understanding Low Blood Pressure Symptoms
Do You Need Surgery for Hypothyroidism? Understanding Your Options
Does hypothyroidism require surgery? I am a patient with hypothyroidism, and some doctors have suggested surgery while others say it is not necessary. I really don't know what to do.
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Why is surgery necessary for hypothyroidism? It should be about supplementing thyroid hormones instead. Please clarify before making a decision.[Read More] Do You Need Surgery for Hypothyroidism? Understanding Your Options
Understanding 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring: Accuracy and Reliability
Regarding issues related to measuring blood pressure? I saw an article in an online Q&A about measuring blood pressure, which mentioned a device that can measure blood pressure continuously for 24 hours. I would like to ask, if the subject is not in a static position, wouldn&...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
What you are referring to is the "ambulatory blood pressure monitor." It is primarily used to assess the blood pressure status of non-hospitalized patients. It measures both dynamic and static blood pressure, with the interpretation mainly determined by the physician. G...[Read More] Understanding 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring: Accuracy and Reliability
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Can It Cause Leg Swelling?
I would like to ask the doctor a question? Hello Doctor, I have a question for you. When mitral valve prolapse is severe, can it cause swelling in the legs? I am quite thin, weighing around 38-39 kilograms, so there isn't much flesh on my legs, making it hard to notice any...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Everyone gets sick, and when illness is unavoidable, it's important to face it bravely. You are likely aware of your own issues, and you understand the advice your doctor gives you. You should listen to your attending physician, cooperate fully, and avoid overexerting yourse...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Can It Cause Leg Swelling?
Understanding and Treating Colonic Dry Heat Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) What is colon dryness syndrome? How is it treated?
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
I am not sure if what you referred to as "large intestine dryness heat syndrome" is the same as "Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)." If so, it is characterized as follows. The term "syndrome" indicates that it is not a single disease, making diagnosis c...[Read More] Understanding and Treating Colonic Dry Heat Syndrome: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms and Treatment Options
I would like to ask the doctor another question? Doctor, may I ask you: Is it true that mitral valve prolapse with symptoms can be more severe? Since last October, I have been experiencing symptoms (dizziness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, palpitations, and difficulty spe...
Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Having symptoms does not necessarily indicate a more severe condition, and the absence of symptoms does not imply a milder one. Rather, if symptoms are present and worsen, it indicates a potential deterioration. Medication is required only when there is a medical condition, and t...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms and Treatment Options