Understanding Sleep Issues: Common Causes and Solutions for Better Rest
Sleep issues I'm not sure which specialty to ask, but I want to inquire about my sleep. I sleep for nine hours every day, but I still feel tired in the morning after waking up. I also use my phone before bed. Could this be affecting my sleep? Is there any illness associated ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: At your age, common factors that may affect sleep include hormonal imbalances, irregular lifestyle habits, stress, and anxiety, among others. Using your phone before bed may impact your ability to fall asleep, leading to poor sleep quality. It is recommended that you consu...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues: Common Causes and Solutions for Better Rest
Facial Symptoms: When to See a Neurologist or Family Doctor?
Facial issues On the first day, my left eye felt very sore and would tear up intermittently. On the second day, I started experiencing pain behind my ear. When I smile, my mouth noticeably tilts to the right, and when I drink liquids, they spill out. I also make a clicking sound ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your physical discomfort may be related to issues such as a stroke, nerve compression and inflammation, facial nerve palsy, or temporomandibular joint disorders, among others. It is recommended that you first consult a neurologist.[Read More] Facial Symptoms: When to See a Neurologist or Family Doctor?
Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Swelling and Calcification
Is it possible for the swelling after wisdom tooth extraction to calcify so quickly, within 3 to 4 months? Hello Dr. Lin, I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted three months ago. After the extraction, my right cheek was significantly swollen. A month later, I was referred to...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The flat, pancake-shaped, and somewhat hard area on your right cheek is likely a result of soft tissue fibrosis caused by a previous inflammatory infection, somewhat similar to scar tissue. As for whether there is calcification or other issues, further medical examination ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Swelling and Calcification
Should You Get a Rabies Vaccine After Animal Saliva Exposure?
If you suspect that animal saliva from a zoo animal has come into contact with your eyes, should you receive a rabies vaccine? Five days ago, while taking photos at the Taipei Zoo, I felt a liquid suddenly touch the corner of my eye while photographing an animal (likely a type of...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Animals in the zoo generally undergo regular health check-ups, so the likelihood of contracting rabies is low, and there should be no concern about the transmission of rabies.[Read More] Should You Get a Rabies Vaccine After Animal Saliva Exposure?
Managing Blood Sugar and Kidney Health: A Patient's Journey
Blood Sugar and Kidney Issues Hello doctor, a month ago my fasting blood glucose was 127, and my HbA1c was 7.2. The doctor prescribed medication for me, but I was advised not to take it. Instead, I focused on exercising and changing my diet, and my fasting blood glucose has mostl...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The decrease in your glomerular filtration rate may be due to diabetic nephropathy or other factors causing kidney damage (such as dehydration, use of pain medications, etc.). It is recommended that you see a nephrologist as soon as possible for further evaluation of the u...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar and Kidney Health: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Drug Interactions: Can Paxlovid Affect Your Current Medications?
Drug interactions Excuse me, doctor. I would like to ask if the following medications I am taking will interact with the antiviral medication Paxlovid. Do I need to stop taking them? I take Xanax (alprazolam) 0.25 mg daily, propranolol 10 mg, nebivolol 5 mg, and Tylenol (acetamin...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Among the four medications you are currently taking, only Alprazolam has a potential drug interaction with the antiviral medication Paxlovid. It is important to monitor whether there is an increase in the sedative effects of Alprazolam. If the dosage of Alprazolam is very ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Can Paxlovid Affect Your Current Medications?
Does Sleeping Only 3-4 Hours a Night Affect Your Health?
Sleeping only three to four hours a day can have significant negative effects on the body. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a range of health issues, including impaired cognitive function, weakened immune response, increased risk of chronic conditions such as obesity, diabet...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Generally speaking, the normal sleep duration for your age is 7-9 hours. Therefore, your current sleep time is actually insufficient, and reduced sleep duration may accelerate brain aging and the degeneration of other bodily organs. If you do not have any specific discomfo...[Read More] Does Sleeping Only 3-4 Hours a Night Affect Your Health?
Impact of Medications on Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Inquiry
Issues related to steroids and blood sugar? Hello, doctor. Six months ago, I measured my fasting blood sugar at a testing center, and the value was 110. Since then, I have been controlling my diet, and my recent readings have been around 83-107. However, I have not yet measured m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. The oral medication you are using does not affect blood sugar levels, and while the topical eczema cream, eye ointment, and eye drops contain steroids, topical steroids generally do not significantly impact blood sugar. Additionally, issues related to inflammation and i...[Read More] Impact of Medications on Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Inquiry
Should You Rely on Medication for Diabetes Management?
Diabetes medication issues? Hello, doctor. At the end of May and the beginning of June, my blood sugar was checked at 127, and my hemoglobin A1c was 7.2. The doctor said I have diabetes and prescribed medication for me. A friend mentioned that my levels are not too high and that ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Since you have just been diagnosed with diabetes, I would recommend that you manage your blood sugar through a combination of medication, diet, and exercise. Although your fasting blood sugar in the morning is only slightly elevated, your postprandial blood sugar may be hi...[Read More] Should You Rely on Medication for Diabetes Management?
Understanding Thumb Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Pain upon pressing the fingertip? Hello, recently I have been using my thumb more frequently, and I experience sharp pain when I press down on the tip of the first phalanx of my thumb (causing the tip of the nail to turn white). What could this symptom indicate, and if I need to ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The tenderness in your thumb may be related to issues with the nail, skin, tendons, ligaments, or other soft tissues, and it is less likely to be carpal tunnel syndrome. It is recommended that you visit a family medicine or orthopedic specialist for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Thumb Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
How Soon After COVID-19 Can You Safely Resume Exercise?
How long after recovering from COVID-19 is it advisable to resume exercise? Hello Dr. Lin, I tested positive on June 28, and as of today, June 30, my symptoms have not fully resolved. After my follow-up visit, the doctor provided supportive treatment. Currently, I have intermitte...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Diabetes, unless it involves short-term fluctuations in blood sugar levels, typically causes organ damage through chronic and long-term changes. Additionally, the management of diabetes is not solely reliant on medication; dietary modifications and exercise are also cru...[Read More] How Soon After COVID-19 Can You Safely Resume Exercise?
Morning Hoarseness After Tonsillitis: Is It Normal?
Waking up with a hoarse voice after tonsillitis? Hello Doctor, two Fridays ago, I experienced pain when swallowing saliva and went to a clinic where I was diagnosed with tonsillitis. I took antibiotics for three days, and after finishing the course, the pain subsided. However, si...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your hoarseness in the morning is more likely caused by tonsillitis accompanied by laryngitis. If the hoarseness were due to cancer, it would typically be persistent and may be accompanied by pain, bleeding, difficulty swallowing, neck lumps, and other discomforts. However...[Read More] Morning Hoarseness After Tonsillitis: Is It Normal?
Effective Cleaning Tips for Makeup Users and Their Belongings
Cosmetic cleansing Hello doctor, I would like to ask if a person who wears makeup touches or uses items belonging to someone who does not wear makeup, is general cleaning sufficient? For example, using soap for body parts and alcohol wipes for items, as I am concerned about the p...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Areas of the body contaminated with cosmetics can be cleaned with soap. 2. For items contaminated with cosmetics, you can first use alcohol wipes to clean the area, but if the cleaning effect is not satisfactory, consider using makeup remover products and dish soap to t...[Read More] Effective Cleaning Tips for Makeup Users and Their Belongings
Which Specialist Should You See for Breathing and Menstrual Issues?
Which specialty should I consult first for these symptoms? Experiencing shortness of breath and fatigue after minimal exertion, such as walking from the first to the second floor, is concerning. You may notice an increased heart rate and louder heartbeat during these episodes. Ad...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your symptoms of shortness of breath, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat, along with the mention of prolonged menstrual periods, may indicate that increased menstrual flow could be causing anemia, which in turn leads to your discomfort. It is recommended that you first consult...[Read More] Which Specialist Should You See for Breathing and Menstrual Issues?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Do They Indicate Inflammation or Issues?
Blood test report Hello, doctor. Could you please tell me if the following data indicates inflammation or other issues in the body? Here are the test results: =============================================== White Blood Cell Count: 6.36 (Reference Range: 4.0–11.0) Red Blood Cell C...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Your blood test report shows elevated neutrophil levels and decreased lymphocyte levels. Generally, this raises concerns about potential infections; however, the values are only slightly outside the normal range, and your overall white blood cell count is normal, so it ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Do They Indicate Inflammation or Issues?
Understanding Right Back Pain and Neck Clicking: Causes and Connections
Right back pain and neck cracking sounds? 1. When bending down, I can feel a pain in a muscle on the right side of my back. If I hunch over and bend down, my entire back hurts. 2. When I tilt my head while looking down, I can hear a cracking sound in my neck, and I can feel the b...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your back pain may be related to issues with the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your back. Additionally, the popping sound in your neck could indicate a problem with the cervical spine, and the two may be related. It is advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist.[Read More] Understanding Right Back Pain and Neck Clicking: Causes and Connections
Rabies Vaccine Coverage for Dog Bites Abroad: What You Need to Know
Dog bite injury abroad? If someone is bitten by a dog abroad and wishes to receive rabies vaccination, can they qualify for health insurance coverage?
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If you are bitten by a dog in a rabies-endemic area abroad, you can go to an international vaccination center or the health bureau of outlying islands for a free rabies vaccination after evaluation by a physician. It is important to receive the vaccine on days 0, 3, 7, 14,...[Read More] Rabies Vaccine Coverage for Dog Bites Abroad: What You Need to Know
Persistent Dizziness and Tremors After a Month of Cold: What to Do?
Experiencing dizziness and shaking one month after a cold? Hello doctor, I have had a cold for a month, and now the only symptoms left are dizziness and shaking. I feel dizzy all day, and my body shakes when I work. I have a history of favism and hypertension. I would like to ask...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If you are experiencing dizziness and shaking a month after having a cold, it is advisable to seek medical attention for peace of mind. It is recommended to first visit a family medicine clinic.[Read More] Persistent Dizziness and Tremors After a Month of Cold: What to Do?
Effects of Sodium Percarbonate on Health: Safety Concerns and Risks
What are the effects of sodium bicarbonate on the body? I read online that sodium carbonate is very effective for cleaning tea stains, so I used it on several cups. The cleaning effect was indeed minimal, but afterwards, I felt a bit unwell, especially noticing a lot of bubbles i...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Sodium percarbonate is a strong alkaline substance and is not intended for consumption, so there is no food-grade sodium percarbonate. Although the substances produced from its decomposition are natural, its oxidizing effects and the gases released during chemical reaction...[Read More] Effects of Sodium Percarbonate on Health: Safety Concerns and Risks
Understanding Belly Button Issues: Pain and Redness After Infection
Umbilical issues I was diagnosed with pneumonia yesterday. Last night, I was too idle and picked at my belly button. After that, I cleaned it with alcohol, and it hurt a little, feeling like it might break the skin. This morning, I noticed a small red area around my belly button,...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your condition is umbilical inflammation. If the umbilicus continues to be red, swollen, hot, and painful without improvement, there is a concern that it may progress to cellulitis, so it is advisable to seek medical treatment immediately.[Read More] Understanding Belly Button Issues: Pain and Redness After Infection