Managing Asthma and Bronchial Issues: Tips Beyond Medication
How to maintain health...? Hello Doctor, I apologize for interrupting your valuable time. I currently have mild asthma and bronchial issues, experiencing some difficulty with deep breaths and occasional shortness of breath. Besides medication, are there any other methods that co...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing from the Department of Family Medicine at Tainan Hospital suggests that you consider scheduling a pulmonary function test with a pulmonologist. This will help confirm whether you have a true asthma condition and also allow you to assess your respiratory functio...[Read More] Managing Asthma and Bronchial Issues: Tips Beyond Medication
Understanding Unpleasant Odors from the Belly Button: Causes and Concerns
I'm here to assist you Hello, recently I've noticed an unusual odor coming from my belly button. I usually clean it while showering, and at first, I thought I wasn't cleaning it thoroughly enough. However, I later realized that it seems to be producing moisture, wh...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
The Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health recommends that you consider consulting a general surgeon or a family medicine physician to rule out any significant localized inflammation. Additionally, maintain good local hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing with soap...[Read More] Understanding Unpleasant Odors from the Belly Button: Causes and Concerns
Why Does Body Temperature Rise to 37.5°C After 2 Days of Quitting Smoking?
Why does the body temperature rise to about 37.5°C (ear temperature) between 6 PM and 11 PM two days after quitting smoking? Why does my body temperature rise to about 37.5°C (ear temperature) every day from 6 PM to 11 PM, two days after quitting smoking? Thank you!
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Smoking Cessation
The Family Medicine Department of Tainan Hospital, under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, responded to this netizen: Generally speaking, after quitting smoking, the lack of nicotine support may lead to a gradual decrease in basal body temperature (unless accompanied by exercis...[Read More] Why Does Body Temperature Rise to 37.5°C After 2 Days of Quitting Smoking?
Understanding Symptoms of Low Platelets and Skin Changes: Which Specialist to Consult?
SLE (Systemic I have previously been diagnosed with thrombocytopenia (occasionally experiencing petechiae). Since childhood, my extremities turn purplish-black in cold weather (with a net-like distribution), and in hot weather, my skin becomes slightly red, swollen, and itchy. In...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Director Lin Ming-Hsing of the Tainan City Hospital's Family Medicine Department stated: It is important to pay attention to the following in hematological examinations: 1. The platelet count (especially if it is below 60,000). 2. If necessary, it may be worthwhile to check ...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Low Platelets and Skin Changes: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Elevated Heart Rate and Early Repolarization in Health Checks
Heart rate of one hundred? My heart rate averages above 100, and during this health check, it was 108 beats per minute. I have previously consulted a doctor about this issue, but there were no specific results. Additionally, the electrocardiogram (ECG) report indicated "earl...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Director Lin Ming-Hsing of the Department of Family Medicine at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, responded: 1. Abnormalities in the electrocardiogram typically indicate electrical conduction disturbances, which usually do not obstruct blood flow circulation, leadi...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Heart Rate and Early Repolarization in Health Checks
Understanding Leg Swelling: Should You Consider Diuretics?
I have a foot problem? Hello, I am a female, 160 cm tall and weighing 63 kg. I have noticeably more fat in my lower body. My calves are thicker than those of men who weigh 78 to 90 kg. My upper body is similar to that of an average-sized woman (usually, overweight individuals ten...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Generally, your calf hypertrophy is associated with poor lymphatic drainage. It is recommended that you engage in regular stretching exercises, as well as "lymphatic drainage massage," and consistently take baths (or use essential oil therapy) for three months, as this ...[Read More] Understanding Leg Swelling: Should You Consider Diuretics?
Understanding Your Health Check Report: When to Seek Medical Advice
Health Check Report Hello Doctor: A few days ago, my friend had blood drawn for biochemical tests, CBC, and urine analysis. Some of the results were slightly above the normal values. I would like to ask if these results require a visit to the hospital, and which department I shou...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
1. Cholesterol levels above normal. 2. Abnormal liver function. 3. Elevated eosinophil count, which usually indicates a tendency for allergic conditions. Please consult a family medicine physician![Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: When to Seek Medical Advice
Unexplained Increase in Appetite: When to See a Family Doctor?
Recently, my appetite has increased for no apparent reason. Which specialty should I consult? Recently, my appetite has increased. I used to be satisfied with one bowl of rice for lunch, but now I can eat one and a half bowls and still feel hungry. I don't think I'm eat...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is understandable that a 16-year-old like you may experience an increase in appetite. I suggest you consider engaging in basketball, swimming, or other aerobic exercises. This way, the increased caloric intake can be effectively converted into growth potential. Wishing ...[Read More] Unexplained Increase in Appetite: When to See a Family Doctor?
Should You Get the Chickenpox Vaccine Before Pregnancy?
Varicella vaccine Dear Dr. Lin, I am currently preparing to conceive and have never had chickenpox, so I would like to ask if I should receive the varicella vaccine (I have already received the rubella vaccine). How can I determine if I have antibodies? Where can I get the vari...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
1. After receiving the varicella vaccine before pregnancy, please avoid conception for three months. Currently, there is no way to test for varicella antibodies. Generally, pediatric clinics provide this service, and the cost is usually below NT$1500. 2. Typically, after taking ...[Read More] Should You Get the Chickenpox Vaccine Before Pregnancy?
Understanding Drug Allergy Testing: Where to Get Tested in Taiwan
Drug allergy testing I would like to know which medications I may have allergic reactions to, and which medical institutions can perform such tests?
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
It is recommended to choose a "medical center" (e.g., National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Chi Mei Medical Center) for testing. It would be even better if the hospital has an affiliated toxicology center.[Read More] Understanding Drug Allergy Testing: Where to Get Tested in Taiwan
Can Pre-Marital Health Check Serve as Employment Health Exam?
Can a "pre-marital health check" be directly considered as the "public hospital health examination" required when starting a new job? Hello, doctor! I am about to change jobs, and my new company requires a health check from a public hospital. Since I am also p...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
It is recommended that you directly consult with the "company" as the adaptation depends on your company's assessment.[Read More] Can Pre-Marital Health Check Serve as Employment Health Exam?
Understanding Weight Loss Medications: Effects and Side Effects Explained
Weight loss medication I would like to ask about the weight loss medication that my friend is taking, which includes a starch blocker. What effects and side effects does it have on the human body? Additionally, I often see a weight loss supplement called L-carnitine online. What ...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
1. The starch enzyme inhibitor "Glucobay" works by inhibiting the absorption of starches in the small intestine after meals. It is generally suitable for most individuals to aid in weight loss, except for those with malabsorption syndromes or severe intestinal disorders...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss Medications: Effects and Side Effects Explained
How Long Do Medications Stay in Your System Before Pregnancy?
How long does the drug effect last? Dear Dr. Lin, I am planning to conceive, but I have been experiencing chronic menstrual pain for over three years, which requires me to take a lot of painkillers and receive pain injections every month. Aside from this, I rarely get sick or ta...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
→ Considering your skin symptoms, if medication is prescribed, it may include corticosteroids or antihistamines, which have variable half-lives in the body. Recently, antihistamines have often been available in long-acting formulations. Therefore, it is recommended that if you ta...[Read More] How Long Do Medications Stay in Your System Before Pregnancy?
Understanding Chronic Fatigue: When to Seek Medical Advice
Easy fatigue..? I have been feeling mentally unwell for the past year or two, often experiencing fatigue, frequent yawning, and a desire to sleep. Despite getting sufficient sleep—going to bed around 11:00 PM and waking up around 7:00 AM—my energy levels remain low, and I feel a ...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
It is recommended that you explore psychological (mental, emotional, personality, interpersonal interactions) and physiological (lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, elimination, etc.) aspects. If these factors can be ruled out, external factors such as workplace stress and o...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Fatigue: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Eyelid Redness and Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice
Redness and swelling of the upper and lower eyelids? Dear Dr. Lin: My eyelids are often red and swollen, but they are not itchy or painful. Occasionally, I experience blurred vision, and I am unsure which specialist to consult. This condition has persisted for two weeks. Does thi...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Dear user, based on your symptom description, it is possible that it is caused by an allergy. I recommend that you visit an ophthalmology clinic for further diagnosis. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Eyelid Redness and Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice
How to Access Weight Loss Clinics in Tainan: Family Medicine Insights
I'm sorry, but I need specific content to translate. Please Hello doctor, I would like to ask if I need to register for the Family Medicine department to see the weight loss clinic at Tainan Hospital, and what the clinic hours are? I have searched for this information but co...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Dear online friends, our weight loss clinic is open on Wednesday afternoons and evenings. If you are a first-time patient, please come on Wednesday evening.[Read More] How to Access Weight Loss Clinics in Tainan: Family Medicine Insights
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Solutions
The issue of constipation? Hello Dr. Lin: I have been struggling with constipation for a long time. Due to previously using inappropriate weight loss methods and menstrual irregularities, I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine for adjustment, but the constipation issue h...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Hello, netizen. I suggest you: (1) brisk walking and diaphragmatic breathing; (2) perform sit-ups to maintain abdominal pressure stability; (3) consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner regarding whether the consumption of certain herbal medicines may cause constipation...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms After Dexamethasone Use for Acne
What are withdrawal symptoms? Hello, I would like to ask what withdrawal symptoms are. I have been taking a low dose of Dexamethasone 0.5 mg/day for 5 weeks due to acne-related skin issues. Will there be any withdrawal phenomena if I stop taking it? Please let me know, thank you.
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
Withdrawal symptoms occur when a person has been taking high doses of corticosteroids (typically 30 or 40 mg per day or more) continuously for 2 to 4 weeks or longer, and then suddenly stops. This is because the high doses of corticosteroids suppress the body's natural produ...[Read More] Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms After Dexamethasone Use for Acne
When to Avoid Alcohol: Health Indicators and Medical Conditions Explained
Under what symptoms should one avoid drinking alcohol? Dear Sir/Madam, 1. In general health check-ups, if certain values are elevated, it is advisable to limit alcohol consumption. Typically, if liver enzymes such as AST (aspartate aminotransferase) or ALT (alanine aminotransfer...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
In general, almost all health check items that show abnormalities require restrictions on alcohol consumption, such as liver function tests (GOT, GPT, rGT), blood sugar (sugar), cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid. Abnormalities in these parameters can have direct negative ...[Read More] When to Avoid Alcohol: Health Indicators and Medical Conditions Explained
When Should You Avoid Alcohol? Key Symptoms and Health Conditions Explained
Under what symptoms should one avoid drinking alcohol? Dr. Lin: Hello! 1. Regarding general health check-up items, which values, when elevated, suggest that one should limit alcohol consumption, and what are the approximate thresholds? At what level should one completely abstain ...
Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine
*In general, almost all health check-up items that show abnormalities require restrictions on alcohol consumption, such as liver function tests (GOT, GPT, rGT), blood sugar (sugar), cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid. Abnormalities in these parameters can have direct negat...[Read More] When Should You Avoid Alcohol? Key Symptoms and Health Conditions Explained