Understanding Gallbladder Calcification: Risks and Treatment Options
Gallbladder calcification Hello, doctor. My sister went to the hospital due to abdominal and back pain, and the doctor mentioned that there is calcification around her gallbladder. Is this porcelain gallbladder? Does porcelain gallbladder indicate gallbladder cancer? She is only ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Gallbladder wall calcification is known as porcelain gallbladder, which has a high risk of associated gallbladder cancer. Since your sister is already experiencing abdominal pain, it is recommended to perform a cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder. A biopsy will be ne...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Calcification: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Red Flags in Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Red text on blood test results? Hello, doctor. Recently, I went to the emergency room due to back pain, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. I had blood tests and a chest X-ray done. The emergency physician diagnosed me with muscle inflammation, and the X-ray of my heart and...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your blood test report indicates microcytic anemia and elevated platelet count, which may be related to iron deficiency anemia. In women, iron deficiency anemia is more commonly caused by chronic bleeding due to heavy menstrual flow. Additionally, gastrointestinal bleeding...[Read More] Understanding Red Flags in Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Impact of MMR Vaccine on TB Testing: Timing and Necessity Explained
Questions related to the MMR vaccine and TB test? 1. The MMR vaccine does not affect the results of the TB test, whether it is the blood test or the X-ray method. However, it is generally recommended to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks after receiving the MMR vaccine before undergoing ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Receiving the MMR vaccine should not affect the results of the TB test blood draw and X-ray examination, and there is no need for a specific interval. 2. Some individuals may have insufficient antibodies in their body 10 years after receiving the MMR vaccine. Generally,...[Read More] Impact of MMR Vaccine on TB Testing: Timing and Necessity Explained
Understanding Abdominal Pulsations: Causes and Concerns
Abdominal pulsation When lying flat, I feel something hard in my abdomen that seems to be pulsating. It moves, but sometimes I can't feel the hard area, although it still feels like it's beating, similar to a heartbeat. Could this be an abdominal aortic aneurysm? 🥹 I ha...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The hard and pulsating object you feel in your abdomen while lying flat is likely the abdominal aorta, rather than an abdominal aortic aneurysm. If you are concerned, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pulsations: Causes and Concerns
How to Confirm if Your Child Has Favism: Medical Records and Testing Options
Unsure if the child has favism? Hello doctor, when my child was born, the doctor mentioned a suspicion of G6PD deficiency. Later, I got busy and forgot about it. I remember that some tests were done at that time. Can I check the records on the health insurance card, or do I need ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The examination for G6PD deficiency, also known as Favism, primarily involves a blood test to check for the presence of this enzyme. Most individuals typically use the National Health Insurance (NHI) Easy Card to query their previous test reports. However, if the test was ...[Read More] How to Confirm if Your Child Has Favism: Medical Records and Testing Options
Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Pancreatic amylase Hello Doctor: I recently had a blood test, and one of the items measured was amylase (normal range is 28-100 u/L). However, my report showed a level of 107 u/L. All other tests for liver and kidney function were normal. Could this indicate hyperamylasemia? I am...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Since your amylase level is only slightly elevated above the normal range, it is more likely to be a case of simple amylase elevation (possibly related to the pancreas or salivary glands) rather than macroamylasemia. Macroamylasemia is typically associated with certain inf...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Thigh Pain and Arm Weakness: Causes and Treatment Options
Thigh muscle pain and weakness in raising the arms? Hello Doctor: Recently, after taking a nap on a wooden bench, I experienced symptoms of pain in the outer thigh muscle on the right side, regardless of whether I am standing or sitting. I am unsure if the pain is the reason I do...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The pain on the outer side of your right thigh may be related to issues with the muscles, tendons, or ligaments, while the limited range of motion and pain in your left arm could be associated with problems in the joints, tendons, or ligaments. It is recommended that you c...[Read More] Understanding Thigh Pain and Arm Weakness: Causes and Treatment Options
Can You Take Yuli Shupan and Healthy Sleep Together Safely?
Can Yu Li Shu Pan and Le Bi Ke be taken together? Hello, may I ask if "Yuli Shupan" and "Jiankang Demian" can be taken together before bedtime? Will there be any interactions between them? Thank you for your clarification!
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: When taking Fludiazepam and Zopiclone together, it is important to monitor for side effects such as dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and drowsiness.[Read More] Can You Take Yuli Shupan and Healthy Sleep Together Safely?
Which Specialist to See for Sweaty Palms and Shortness of Breath?
If you are experiencing shortness of breath and warmth in your palms, you should consult a specialist in Pulmonology (for respiratory issues) or Internal Medicine? Hello Doctor, my father is about 58 years old and had COVID-19 approximately three years ago. In the last month or t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your father's physical discomfort may need to be evaluated for potential heart or lung issues. It is recommended to consult with a cardiologist or a pulmonologist for examination.[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Sweaty Palms and Shortness of Breath?
Understanding Cold Sensation and Rapid Heartbeat During Sleep
Regarding feeling cold and experiencing a rapid heartbeat while sleeping? I have been having trouble sleeping lately and have some questions for the doctor. Recently, I feel very cold while sleeping. At first, I thought it might be due to the air conditioning or fan being too str...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The symptoms of feeling cold and having a rapid heartbeat at night are likely due to high stress causing irregular sleep patterns, which results in sympathetic nervous system activation. However, it is also important to consider other issues such as infections or endocrine...[Read More] Understanding Cold Sensation and Rapid Heartbeat During Sleep
Does Massaging Cystic Acne Worsen Symptoms or Cause Infection?
Will massaging inflamed acne have a counterproductive effect? Hello Doctor, I am a third-year male student. I have a pimple on my face that appears to be cystic in nature, and it has been present for about a month. When I press on it, there is a noticeable soft, jelly-like pus th...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Cystic acne affects the deeper layers of the skin, and after inflammation subsides, it can easily leave scars on the face. Since you have been experiencing this for a month, it is advisable to seek treatment from a dermatologist as soon as possible. Additionally, avoid tou...[Read More] Does Massaging Cystic Acne Worsen Symptoms or Cause Infection?
Understanding Night Sweats: When to Seek Medical Attention
The issue of night sweats? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask how to distinguish between normal sweating and night sweats. If I can't tell the difference, how can I know if I need to seek medical attention? Do night sweats come with any symptoms, such as cold sweats? Thank y...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Generally, sweating is primarily caused by physical activity or a hot environment, while night sweats are not typically related to these two situations. Night sweats are somewhat similar to cold sweats, but they specifically refer to excessive sweating that occurs at night...[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Sudden Chest Pain and Breathing Difficulties: What Could It Be?
What disease or emergency situation is it? One morning, I felt very unwell upon waking up. I then began to experience chest tightness, shortness of breath, cold sweats, and palpitations after walking a few steps, accompanied by a sensation of darkness in my vision. Half an hour l...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your physical discomfort may be related to cardiovascular issues, and it is recommended that you see a cardiologist for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Chest Pain and Breathing Difficulties: What Could It Be?
Managing Post-Injection Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Pain persists after receiving the injection? Hello, doctor. On April 25th, I had a cardiovascular MRI with contrast injection, and a soft catheter was placed on the back of my right hand. During the procedure, the nurse came in to inject the contrast, and it was very painful at t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Based on your description, the pain and bruising may be caused by a ruptured vein. If it is phlebitis or extravasation of contrast media, there will typically be signs of redness and swelling. It is recommended to apply ice and take oral anti-inflammatory pain relievers, a...[Read More] Managing Post-Injection Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Concerns About Infection Risks from Everyday Activities
Infection issues Hello, Doctor. 1. When riding a bicycle, I place items on the foot mat, but to prevent them from falling, I keep my foot on them the entire time and only use my hand to grab them afterward. Could this lead to an infection, even though I wash my hands? I'm ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The items that shoes come into contact with may carry dirt and bacteria, raising concerns about infection. However, most infections occur through hand contact when proper hygiene is not maintained, leading to touching the eyes, nose, and mouth. Therefore, hand hygiene is c...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Everyday Activities
Understanding Anemia: Blood Test Results and PPI Impact on Iron Absorption
Anemia issues Hello, Doctor. This is my blood test report for this year: RBC 4.93 [4.26–5.56], Hb 12.9 [13.5–17.5], Hct 39.3 [40–49], MCV 79.7 [80–100], MCH 26.2 [26–34], MCHC 32.8 [31–37], RDW 13.2 [11.5–14.5]. Does this indicate anemia? This is my report from June of last year:...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your blood test report indicates microcytic anemia, with the more common causes being thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. Since your previous blood test did not show any signs of anemia, it is more likely to be iron deficiency anemia. The causes of iron deficiency anem...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Blood Test Results and PPI Impact on Iron Absorption
Understanding Infection Risks from Everyday Activities: A Guide for Patients
Infection issues Hello, Doctor. 1. When riding a bike, I place items on the foot mat, but to prevent them from falling, I keep my foot on them the entire time and only grab them with my hand afterward. Could this lead to an infection? Although I wash my hands, I am concerned ab...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If your hands come into contact with something that has been stepped on by shoes, washing your hands with soap is sufficient to achieve cleanliness and disinfection.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks from Everyday Activities: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Infection Risks: Everyday Scenarios and Prevention Tips
Infection issues? Hello, Doctor. 1. When riding a bike, I place items on the foot mat, but to prevent them from falling, I keep my feet on them the entire time and only use my hands to retrieve them afterward. Could this lead to an infection, even though I wash my hands? I'...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Touching something that has been stepped on by shoes can actually be cleaned and sanitized effectively with soap and water.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks: Everyday Scenarios and Prevention Tips
Can People with Favism Safely Consume Pearl Powder?
Consumption of pearl powder in individuals with favism? Hello, I have a personal history of favism and have been advised not to consume pearl powder. Recently, I noticed that some beauty and health products contain pearl powder, so I searched for information related to favism. I ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The main component of pearl powder is calcium carbonate, along with a small amount of carbohydrates, amino acids, and trace elements (including heavy metals), among others. Calcium carbonate, carbohydrates, and amino acids are unlikely to cause hemolytic reactions in indiv...[Read More] Can People with Favism Safely Consume Pearl Powder?
Why Am I Sleeping 15 Hours and Still Feeling Tired?
Recently, even after sleeping for over ten hours, I still feel easily fatigued? Hello, doctor. I have been sleeping for about fourteen to fifteen hours a day for the past few days, and after waking up for more than an hour, I start to feel sleepy again. I haven't taken any m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The reasons for your fatigue, aside from medication effects or physical exhaustion, may also include considerations such as anemia, infections, sleep apnea, abnormalities in heart/liver/kidney function, blood sugar/electrolyte imbalances, endocrine disorders, and other iss...[Read More] Why Am I Sleeping 15 Hours and Still Feeling Tired?