Understanding Unexplained Skin Pain and Itching: When to Seek Help
Generalized skin prickling and itching? Recently, I have started experiencing intermittent itching and tingling in certain areas, including my hands, calves, buttocks, chest, back, and even my scrotum. The symptoms occur randomly, and when I scratch, it often turns red with notic...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Regarding your issue of itching in multiple areas, if there are no obvious rashes on the skin, it may be worth considering whether it is due to excessively dry skin or pruritus. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist or a family medicine physician.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Skin Pain and Itching: When to Seek Help
Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Skin issues Hello doctor, I have sensitive and dry skin, and I would like to ask if I need to remove makeup when sharing a phone or other items with someone who wears makeup, as well as during physical contact. I feel like my hands don't get completely clean after washing, a...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: For your sensitive and dry skin issues, it is recommended to regularly use a moisturizing lotion for skincare. Additionally, when sharing phones or other items with individuals who wear makeup, as well as during brief physical contact, the amount of makeup transferred is u...[Read More] Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Understanding OCD and Cleanliness: When to Seek Help from a Doctor
Could you please provide more context or specify your question? Hello Doctor, I am unsure whether I have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or an unusually severe case of cleanliness, or if I might have other mental health issues. I often feel that when items fall on the ground ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Based on your description, it seems that your concerns about cleanliness and washing have caused you significant psychological distress. I recommend consulting a psychiatrist to evaluate whether you may have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and to discuss relevant tr...[Read More] Understanding OCD and Cleanliness: When to Seek Help from a Doctor
Understanding Iron Supplement Side Effects: When to Worry About Blood in Stool
Side effects of iron supplements? Hello, I have iron deficiency anemia and have been taking iron supplements for two months after visiting my family doctor. I noticed that sometimes my stool is black, which I know is normal. However, the first time I wipe after a bowel movement, ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Taking iron supplements can indeed cause the stool to appear black and dark. However, if you notice blood when wiping after a bowel movement, it is more likely related to hemorrhoids or other issues in the colon, and should not be associated with taking iron supplements. I...[Read More] Understanding Iron Supplement Side Effects: When to Worry About Blood in Stool
Do I Have OCD? Understanding Compulsions and Hygiene Concerns
Hello, how can I assist you today? Hello, Doctor. I'm not sure if I have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or an abnormal level of cleanliness, or if it's another mental health issue. I often feel that when items fall on the ground and I pick them up, the floor is ver...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Based on your description, it seems that your concerns about cleanliness and washing have caused you significant mental and physical distress. It is advisable to consult a psychiatrist to evaluate whether there may be an issue with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) an...[Read More] Do I Have OCD? Understanding Compulsions and Hygiene Concerns
Understanding Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Symptoms and Gastrointestinal Effects
Regarding the progression from mild to moderate symptoms and related sequelae? Hello Dr. Lin, I was infected and confirmed positive for COVID-19 on December 28 of last year due to exposure from a household member. I isolated at home for five days and have since completed my isola...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Although the infection caused by the COVID-19 virus primarily presents with respiratory symptoms, it can actually affect various organs and systems throughout the body, which means gastrointestinal symptoms may also occur. 2. The progression from mild to moderate or sev...[Read More] Understanding Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Symptoms and Gastrointestinal Effects
Does Lifting Weights After HPV Vaccine Affect Its Effectiveness?
After receiving the HPV vaccine Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if lifting heavy objects with the arm that received the HPV nine-valent vaccine about one hour after vaccination will affect the vaccine's effectiveness. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Lifting heavy objects and exerting muscles after vaccination does not affect the efficacy of the vaccine; however, it may increase post-injection side effects, such as soreness and swelling at the injection site. If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to apply a cool, ...[Read More] Does Lifting Weights After HPV Vaccine Affect Its Effectiveness?
Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Skin issues Hello doctor, I have sensitive and dry skin, and I would like to ask if I need to remove makeup when sharing a phone or other items with someone who is wearing makeup, as well as during physical contact. I feel like washing my hands doesn't feel thorough enough, ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: For your sensitive and dry skin issues, it is recommended to regularly use a moisturizing lotion for skincare. Additionally, when sharing phones or other items with individuals who wear makeup, as well as during brief physical contact, the amount of makeup transferred is u...[Read More] Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Unexplained Weight Loss and Poor Appetite: What Could It Mean?
Weight loss has been persistent, and appetite is poor? I have been experiencing weight loss over the past few months and my appetite has not been very good, but I don't feel any other abnormalities in my body. My weight has been fluctuating between 40 to 42 kg, and I am worr...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your description of weight loss, if there has been no specific dietary control or exercise for weight reduction, it is important to consider potential issues related to the endocrine system, gastrointestinal system, infectious diseases, or cancer, among others. It...[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss and Poor Appetite: What Could It Mean?
Understanding Unexplained Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a slightly elevated temperature (37.2-38.2°C) for the past three weeks. I visited a clinic, but my temperature continues to fluctuate. The most noticeable symptoms are drowsiness and headaches. Should I conside...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your symptoms of fever, lethargy, and headache may be due to a COVID-19 infection or influenza virus infection. However, since your discomfort has persisted for three weeks, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to rule out other serious infections or conditions (such...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention
How to Access Your Vaccination Records in Taiwan's Healthcare System
Where can I check my vaccination records? Hello, doctor. A few years ago, I received vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis B, and some other vaccines, but today when I used the health passbook feature in the National Health Insurance app, I only found records of the vaccines admini...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The following information is provided by the Ministry of Health and Welfare: Individuals or medical institutions can inquire about vaccination records through the following three channels: 1. Since 2014, contracted medical institutions can connect to the "National Imm...[Read More] How to Access Your Vaccination Records in Taiwan's Healthcare System
Why Your Weight Drops Overnight: Understanding Morning Weight Changes
Weight typically decreases upon waking up? Hello, doctor. I have been weighing myself recently and noticed that my weight every morning is lower than my weight the night before. Is this normal? I always thought that after eating throughout the day, my weight would increase by the...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If you have experienced a weight loss of more than 5 kilograms or more than 5% of your original body weight within the past six months to a year, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Possible causes include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, gastrointestinal diseases, cance...[Read More] Why Your Weight Drops Overnight: Understanding Morning Weight Changes
Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Tingling sensations in the left calf and chest? Hello: After being diagnosed with COVID, I noticed that my heart beats very strongly. I have seen a cardiologist, had an electrocardiogram and a Holter monitor, and had blood tests, all of which were reported as normal. Recently, I ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The sensations of a strong heartbeat, discomfort in your left calf, and chest tightness with stabbing pain may be related to a confirmed COVID-19 infection, specifically long COVID symptoms. Currently, the management of long COVID sequelae primarily focuses on symptom cont...[Read More] Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Tingling in the left calf and chest? Hello, after being diagnosed with COVID, I noticed that my heart beats very strongly. I have seen a cardiologist who performed an electrocardiogram and monitored my heart rhythm, and after blood tests, the doctor said everything was normal. Re...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The sensations of a strong heartbeat, discomfort in your left calf, and chest tightness with stabbing pain may be related to a confirmed COVID-19 infection, specifically long COVID symptoms. Currently, the management of long COVID sequelae primarily focuses on symptom cont...[Read More] Understanding Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery
Swollen Joint at the Tip of Right Middle Finger: Causes and Solutions
Swelling of the right middle finger joint? Hello Doctor, this morning I noticed that the tip of my right middle finger's nail, extending to the joint area, is swollen. The swelling is more pronounced on the left side, measuring approximately 1 cm in length and 0.5 cm in widt...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your description, it could possibly be an epidermoid cyst, a mucous cyst, or a ganglion cyst, among others. If you wish to improve the condition, surgical excision may be considered. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Swollen Joint at the Tip of Right Middle Finger: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Drug Interactions: Safe Medication Practices for Patients
Drug interactions Hello: I take Lofuget, Yulishupan, Shoumei Lipid-Lowering No. 1, and enzymes to aid bowel movements daily. I am very concerned about potential drug interactions and would like to ask: 1. After drinking milk, can I take my medications immediately? If there should...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. The medications you are taking are not significantly affected by milk absorption, so you can take them after drinking milk. 2. These four medications can be taken together without any specific drug interaction issues. 3. Fludiazepam can generally be taken three times a ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Safe Medication Practices for Patients
Winter Foot Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Pain on the dorsum of the foot due to exposure to cold wind in winter? Hello doctor, since junior high school, whenever my feet remain in a fixed position (motionless), the dorsum of my foot experiences pain when exposed to cold air in winter. For example, after riding a motorcyc...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The pain in the dorsum of your foot caused by exposure to cold air is likely due to the constriction of blood vessels in the area, which affects the blood circulation to the local nerves, leading to numbness and pain. It is advisable to pay attention to and enhance the war...[Read More] Winter Foot Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
HPV Nine-Valent Vaccine: Should I Delay the Second Dose After COVID-19?
Regarding the HPV nine-valent vaccine vaccination issues? Hello doctor, I received my first dose of the HPV nine-valent vaccine on October 21, and I plan to receive the second dose on December 21. However, I tested positive for COVID-19 on December 9. Should I postpone the second...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Actually, after the quarantine for COVID-19 is over, if there are no specific discomforts, you can receive the HPV nine-valent vaccine. If you are experiencing any discomfort, it is fine to delay the vaccination; however, the interval between the second and third doses sho...[Read More] HPV Nine-Valent Vaccine: Should I Delay the Second Dose After COVID-19?
Understanding Heart Palpitations and Weakness After Heat Stroke and Vaccination
Strong heartbeat with weakness and shortness of breath? I previously experienced heatstroke that triggered angina, and after receiving a vaccine, I now feel as if my heart is being crushed whenever I sweat (for example, after eating hot food or being in a stuffy environment). It ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your symptoms of chest pain, palpitations, general weakness, and cold sweats are indeed concerning for potential heart issues, and they may also be related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. However, it is possible that no abnormalities will be found during an examin...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations and Weakness After Heat Stroke and Vaccination
Understanding Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Is it possible to be diagnosed with tonsillitis? Since last Friday (12/9), swallowing saliva has not been painful, but drinking water causes throat pain. On Friday, I looked in the mirror and did not see anything unusual, but starting Saturday, swallowing saliva also became painf...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Based on your description, it is indeed very likely that you have tonsillitis. 2. Since the symptoms of COVID-19 can manifest in various ways, it is possible to have both tonsillitis and a COVID-19 infection simultaneously, so I recommend that you take a rapid test for ...[Read More] Understanding Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help