Understanding Hand and Foot Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Swelling in the palm with mild pain? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about a symptom where my palms or the soles of my feet feel swollen after waking up, but the swelling returns to normal after getting out of bed for a while. However, in the evening before going to sleep, ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello Mr. Kobayashi: Regarding the sensation of swelling in the palms or soles upon waking, which resolves on its own after a while, this symptom is quite nonspecific. It is advisable to visit a hospital for a clearer diagnosis by a physician, either in internal medicine or famil...[Read More] Understanding Hand and Foot Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blurred Vision in Diabetic Patients: Causes and Management Tips
Diabetes can cause blurred vision? Hello, Dr. Liu. My elderly family member has type 2 diabetes and needs to take chronic medication daily. Recently, their fasting blood glucose levels have been around 180-200 mg/dL. After a follow-up visit, additional medication to lower blood s...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello Ms. Mu: Recently, your fasting blood glucose levels in the morning have been around 90-130, which is an improvement compared to before. However, the changes in your vision have become particularly severe in the past few days. Early symptoms of cataracts may include blurred ...[Read More] Blurred Vision in Diabetic Patients: Causes and Management Tips
Breathing Difficulties: Which Specialist Should You Consult?
Respiratory issues Hello, doctor. I have had difficulty breathing since middle school, often needing to take very deep breaths or yawn to relieve the sensation. I previously saw a doctor when I was quite overweight, measuring 158 cm and weighing 67 kg. The doctor advised me to ex...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello Ms. Hsu: Regarding your long-standing respiratory issues, you should have undergone some examinations previously, and the results should not indicate any major concerns, right? If follow-up or further testing is necessary, I recommend visiting a pulmonology clinic, which sh...[Read More] Breathing Difficulties: Which Specialist Should You Consult?
Understanding Shoulder Tightness: Causes and Treatment Options
The shoulders feel very tight? Two to three years ago, I went to a traditional Chinese medicine clinic for rehabilitation. The doctor used suction cups on my shoulders, and the nurse applied them with excessive force, which caused tightness in my shoulders and neck, affecting my ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello, Based on your message, you have been experiencing shoulder, neck, and other bodily symptoms for 2-3 years, and previous treatments do not seem to have improved your condition. There may be an issue related to the musculoskeletal system. If possible, it would be beneficia...[Read More] Understanding Shoulder Tightness: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Blood Sugar Levels and What They Mean
Test values The patient discovered elevated fasting blood glucose levels ranging from 106 to 112 mg/dL through a family member's blood glucose meter. A subsequent hospital check showed a fasting blood glucose level of 107.1 mg/dL and a hemoglobin A1c level of 5.3%. Is this c...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello, online user: Fasting blood glucose testing requires an 8-hour fast, with normal values ranging from 70 to 99 mg/dL. The normal value for hemoglobin A1c is below 6. For prediabetes, blood glucose levels are less than 126 mg/dL but greater than 100 mg/dL. In the case mention...[Read More] Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Blood Sugar Levels and What They Mean
Managing High Blood Pressure: What to Do After Taking Medication on an Empty Stomach
Vomiting after taking blood pressure medication on an empty stomach? Grandpa has high blood pressure. This morning, he measured his blood pressure at 185 and took his antihypertensive medication without having breakfast. He then felt dizzy and sweaty, and after taking a sip of mi...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello, Mei-Shan: Based on the analysis of your letter, generally speaking, after taking antihypertensive medication for a period of time, the body should have adapted to the blood pressure-lowering effects. It is unusual to experience dizziness and sweating after taking blood pre...[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure: What to Do After Taking Medication on an Empty Stomach
Understanding Joint Pain and Swelling in Fingers and Toes
Swelling and pain in the hands and feet? Hello, I started working at a cake factory on January 21, 2019. The factory temperature is low, and the cake products are even colder. Starting two weeks ago, I began to experience pain in my finger joints. Last week, my finger joints beca...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello, thank you for your inquiry: Based on the information provided, there is redness, swelling, pain, and limited mobility in the joints, which is most severe in the morning. This suggests the presence of arthritis or inflammation of the joint-related tissues. To determine the ...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain and Swelling in Fingers and Toes
Why Certain Bottled Waters Make Me Vomit: A Medical Inquiry
Drinking certain brands of water can cause vomiting? Hello doctor, I have had a strange condition since childhood. Since it does not affect my daily life and I didn't know which specialty to consult, I never went to see a doctor. Recently, I noticed there are online medical ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello, thank you for your question. Based on your description, if the source of the water has not deteriorated or been contaminated, and if this phenomenon is experienced only by you and can be self-adjusted, then it can be considered a personal constitution, and there is no need...[Read More] Why Certain Bottled Waters Make Me Vomit: A Medical Inquiry
Understanding Your Symptoms: Digestive and Chest Pain Concerns
I don't know what the problem is? Hello doctor, for the past two months, I have been experiencing frequent discomfort in my stomach (sometimes it's painful, but other times it's just uncomfortable). Recently, I've also been having pain in my left chest. A whil...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine
Hello Ms. He, based on the information provided, your symptoms are increasing, which may indicate potential cardiovascular or pulmonary issues. It is recommended that you seek further evaluation from a cardiologist or an internist. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Digestive and Chest Pain Concerns
Understanding Numbness in the Left Hand: Causes and Concerns
Numbness in the hands? Hello Doctor: In the past few days, I have been experiencing frequent numbness in my left hand, similar to the sensation of pressure for too long, leading to poor circulation. I am a bit concerned that I might be having a stroke (or have already had one). R...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
The most common cause of hand numbness is "carpal tunnel syndrome," which occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel. This condition is often seen in pregnant women, typists, workers who frequently twist their wrists, computer user...[Read More] Understanding Numbness in the Left Hand: Causes and Concerns
Can Sea Salt Under Pillow Improve Sleep for Hypertensive Patients?
Benefits of Sea Salt Description of the issue: My mother is 70 years old and has hypertension (no diabetes). Recently, she read a book titled "The Amazing Detox Method," which suggests that individuals with poor sleep can use 50g of natural sea salt wrapped in cloth or ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Miss Lin. Common uses of sea salt include making bath salts for bathing purposes, which can help exfoliate and beautify the skin. It is also said to have a sweating effect. However, regarding the effects of its magnetic field and how it interacts with diseases or medicatio...[Read More] Can Sea Salt Under Pillow Improve Sleep for Hypertensive Patients?
Can Anemia and Asthma Affect Intense Exercise? A Guide for Your Girlfriend
Pelvic floor? My girlfriend has anemia, specifically iron deficiency anemia. Can she engage in intense exercise? Sometimes she experiences sudden dizziness and almost faints. Is it safe for her to run 800 meters? I'm worried she might pass out. Additionally, she has mild ast...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
Ischemic anemia can present symptoms ranging from none to weakness in the limbs and dizziness, depending on its acute or chronic nature and the level of hemoglobin. Mild shortness of breath may be asymptomatic and similar to that of a healthy individual. In any case, could you pl...[Read More] Can Anemia and Asthma Affect Intense Exercise? A Guide for Your Girlfriend
Understanding Hand and Foot Tremors: When to Seek Medical Advice
Tremors in the hands and feet? Hello, doctor. I am a very overweight girl, weighing about 85 kg and standing 160 cm tall. I often feel weak and even tremble when I'm hungry. Last time I was at the hospital, my blood sugar was measured (finger prick) two hours after a meal, a...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
In healthy individuals, fasting blood glucose levels range from 70 to 110 mg/dL, and should not exceed 120 mg/dL two hours after a meal. Based on your value of 143 mg/dL after eating, this is considered elevated. Elevated levels often cause symptoms such as trembling in the hands...[Read More] Understanding Hand and Foot Tremors: When to Seek Medical Advice
How to Obtain a Medical Certificate for Asthma Without an Attack
Asthma Hello, doctor: I would like to ask you about my situation. I have congenital asthma, but when I am not having an attack, I am just like a normal person. However, when an attack occurs, my asthma symptoms will manifest. I am currently preparing for a medical examination and...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
Basically, when asthma is not active, individuals are similar to those without the condition. If a medical certificate is needed for purposes such as military service, it should be issued by a hospital that is accredited by the Department of Health at the regional level or higher...[Read More] How to Obtain a Medical Certificate for Asthma Without an Attack
Can You Stop Taking Uric Acid Medications After Treatment?
Can uric acid-lowering medications be discontinued? Hello Doctor, I experienced a gout attack in my right big toe several years ago. At that time, I took uric acid-lowering medication for about a year and a half, and since my uric acid levels were not high, I stopped the medicati...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
The reference values for each test may vary depending on the initial settings of the instrument or the reagents used. After taking uric acid-lowering medication for a period of time, if the uric acid level can be reduced to below 6 or 7 (depending on the instrument), the medicati...[Read More] Can You Stop Taking Uric Acid Medications After Treatment?
Understanding Persistent Dry Mouth: Causes and When to Seek Help
What are the causes of the disease? I would like to ask the doctor, recently I have been experiencing dry mouth and a dry tongue. No matter how much water I drink, I still feel like my mouth is dry. Could you please tell me what might be the cause of this? Should I see an interni...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
Dry mouth can occur at any age, and its causes include sleep issues, illnesses, mouth breathing, and medication side effects. You may consult an internist or an otolaryngologist for examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Dry Mouth: Causes and When to Seek Help
Choosing Between Health Check Centers and Hospitals for Your Check-Up
Health check-up Hello, doctor: I would like to ask whether it is better to go to a health check-up center or a hospital for a health examination?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
I would like to first ask about the direction of your examination. For general tests (such as liver and kidney function or urinalysis), either a health checkup center or a hospital would be suitable. For other tests, such as electrophoresis or immunoassays, it is better to go to ...[Read More] Choosing Between Health Check Centers and Hospitals for Your Check-Up
Understanding Pubic Hair Changes: Causes and Solutions for Fading and Shedding
Pubic hair may undergo discoloration and can also fall out? My pubic hair is becoming lighter in color and falling out. I have confirmed that I do not have any sexually transmitted infections. Could this be due to aging, and how should I address this issue?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
This response is provided by Dr. Hsu Wei-Kai from our Urology Department: It sounds like it could be pubic lice, which often coexists with other sexually transmitted infections. A personal examination is necessary to determine the exact cause. Additionally, we should consider the...[Read More] Understanding Pubic Hair Changes: Causes and Solutions for Fading and Shedding
Understanding Medications for Uric Acid, Gout, and Acid Relief
Medication Inquiry Hello: One day, I found some medication names written by a friend, including uric acid, gout, and antacid tablets. I am unsure what symptoms these medications are used for. Could you please help me understand? Thank you!
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
Elevated uric acid levels in the blood can lead to joint pain known as gout. Therefore, if a medication is labeled for gout, it is intended for the treatment of gouty arthritis and hyperuricemia. Antacids, commonly referred to as stomach medications, are used to address excessive...[Read More] Understanding Medications for Uric Acid, Gout, and Acid Relief
Understanding Year-Round Facial Redness and Body Heat: Allergy Connections
None Why does my face easily flush throughout the year and I also experience body heat? I have a hereditary allergic rhinitis; could this be related to my allergies? Thank you.
Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Internal Medicine
Facial flushing and body warmth are caused by vasodilation, which is regulated by the nervous and endocrine systems. For instance, a small secretion of adrenaline can lead to vasodilation, particularly in the facial blood vessels. Some individuals in London have sought surgery sp...[Read More] Understanding Year-Round Facial Redness and Body Heat: Allergy Connections