Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Is One Test Enough?
Diabetes Diagnosis Issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. Recently, I was diagnosed with high blood sugar during a health check-up. On November 9th, I went to the hospital for a blood test and found that my fasting blood glucose level was 142 mg/dL, and my hemoglob...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Zhang: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c. HbA...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Is One Test Enough?
Persistent Low-Grade Fever After Kidney Infection: What to Know
The body temperature has been consistently around 37 degrees Celsius for several days? Hello, doctor. I was hospitalized for pyelonephritis two weeks ago and stayed for a week, followed by another week of antibiotics after discharge. My menstrual period started right after and la...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Chen: 1. The diagnosis of acute pyelonephritis primarily presents with symptoms such as frequent urination, dysuria, flank pain, and may even include fever, chills, and headache. Laboratory tests typically show an increase in white blood cells with a rise in the proport...[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever After Kidney Infection: What to Know
Understanding Facial Numbness After Cheekbone Surgery: Next Steps
Zygomatic bone surgery? Hello Doctor, ten years ago I was in a car accident that resulted in fractures of my zygomatic bone and orbital bone. After surgery, titanium metal was placed in my zygomatic bone, and the nerve part healed on its own after six months. In recent years, I h...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Yao: 1. Based on the symptoms you described, it may be indicative of the distribution of the trigeminal nerve; its branches innervate the gums and the roots of the teeth. Any changes affecting the nerve distribution could lead to sensations of numbness or pain. 2. Of c...[Read More] Understanding Facial Numbness After Cheekbone Surgery: Next Steps
Understanding Nutcracker Syndrome: Seeking the Right Diagnosis and Treatment
Nutcracker Syndrome Hello Doctor: In June of this year, I went to the emergency room at Hospital A due to lower abdominal pain, and a CT scan suggested possible Nutcracker Syndrome. However, after undergoing a CTA scan at Hospital B, they said everything was fine. Yet, I continue...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Moon Star: 1. Nutcracker syndrome refers to a condition where the left renal vein is compressed between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery or other structures, leading to narrowing. It is akin to a nut being crushed. I apologize, but I do not have e...[Read More] Understanding Nutcracker Syndrome: Seeking the Right Diagnosis and Treatment
Managing Menstrual Pain: Safe Painkillers and Stomach Health Tips
Inquiring about whether painkiller ingredients harm the stomach & methods to alleviate menstrual pain? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I experience severe menstrual cramps almost every month, to the extent that I vomit if I drink water or eat anything (I previously consulted a gynecologist...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Miss Chen: 1. I would like to inquire whether the following ingredients are harmful to the stomach: acetaminophen 500mg and the other excipients (the manufacturer did not specify the dosage): hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol 6000, sodium st...[Read More] Managing Menstrual Pain: Safe Painkillers and Stomach Health Tips
Can You Fly with Heart Anxiety? Understanding Your Cardiac Health
Fear of flying due to heart problems? Hello Doctor, Below is the report from the previous cardiac examination, specifically the Ambulatory Holter ECG report: 1. The baseline ECG showed sinus rhythm with a heart rate ranging from 46 to 112 beats per minute (bpm). The average he...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear "Seeker of Help": 1. Since you have undergone so many detailed examinations, it is important to discuss with your attending physician whether your heart and lung functions are suitable for a two-hour flight. 2. Your concerns seem to lean more towards panic diso...[Read More] Can You Fly with Heart Anxiety? Understanding Your Cardiac Health
Understanding Elevated Red Blood Cell Count: Causes and Concerns
Red blood cell count: 5.75 million cells per microliter? I have thalassemia. Three months ago, I had a blood test and was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. After taking iron supplements for three months, I had another blood test and no longer have iron deficiency anemia. How...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Anonymous: 1. You have a personal history of carrying the thalassemia trait, which would show a low MCV (mean corpuscular volume) and an increased total red blood cell count in hematological tests. To determine whether it is alpha or beta thalassemia, hemoglobin electr...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Red Blood Cell Count: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Finger Issues: When to Seek Medical Help for Numbness
Finger issues One day, I woke up and suddenly noticed that my right hand's middle finger, ring finger, and little finger felt a bit stiff when trying to bend them, accompanied by a sensation like a "pop." I also felt some tingling at the tips of these three fingers...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Xiao, Based on your limited description, clinical considerations should include cervical nerve compression, ulnar or median nerve pathology, peripheral vascular disease, ulnar collateral ligament inflammation, and shoulder muscle and ligament inflammation, among others...[Read More] Understanding Finger Issues: When to Seek Medical Help for Numbness
Concerns After Massage: Joint Sounds, Skin Reactions, and Health Risks
Please ask your question? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my first massage today. It was at a regular establishment, but I am currently in Vietnam. During the massage, I sometimes heard a cracking sound from my bones; does that indicate any joint issues? Additionally, for...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Chen: [Feeling a popping sound in the bones during massage]: This may be the sound produced by the movement of ligaments colliding and rubbing against the bones. [What bloodborne diseases can be transmitted through massage?]: The premise for bloodborne diseases is the pr...[Read More] Concerns After Massage: Joint Sounds, Skin Reactions, and Health Risks
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please ask your question? Hello doctor, I felt some discomfort in my abdomen while having a bowel movement. At first, it was formed, but then it became somewhat watery. I tried to push to clear it out, but later some sticky, mucus-like substance came out (and the stool was a bit ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Niko: 1. Stool is a mixture of undigested food remnants, digestive juices, and secretions that remain after the digestion and absorption of food through the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 1,500 c.c. of chyme, which is a semi-liquid substance digested by digestive...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Blood Test Results: When to Follow Up with Your Doctor
Blood disorders Hello Dr. Hsiao, I previously visited the clinic due to allergic cough, which showed slight improvement. Later, I went to a large hospital's pulmonology department, where the doctor indicated that it was triggered by allergies. Blood tests were conducted, an...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Ms. Emily: Your concerns are valid; please return to your primary physician's clinic for inquiries! Essentially, the diagnosis of diseases is primarily clinical, with laboratory tests serving as supplementary. I believe the diagnosis and management by your pulmonologist are ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: When to Follow Up with Your Doctor
High Segmented Neutrophils and Low Lymphocytes: What You Need to Know
Elevated neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes? Hello Dr. Hsiao, my health report shows elevated segmented neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes. The percentage of segmented neutrophils is H 75.4, while the standard range is 40.0 - 74.0. The percentage of lymphocytes is L 18.8, w...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Kuo: 1. Please pay attention to your health examination report; do you have any recommendations regarding this matter? 2. The percentage of segmented leukocytes in the total white blood cell count is slightly elevated, which may sometimes be a transient variation and sho...[Read More] High Segmented Neutrophils and Low Lymphocytes: What You Need to Know
Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Anterior Shin Blockage?
Which specialty should I see? Hello, doctor. I have a feeling of blockage on the outer front side of my calf. Which specialty should I consult?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Ah Wei: Please consult a cardiologist first![Read More] Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Anterior Shin Blockage?
Can Using Tap Water for Nasal Irrigation Lead to Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection?
Regarding the use of tap water for nasal irrigation, is there a risk of infection from Naegleria fowleri? Hello, doctor. I recently saw news reports about cases of amoebic infections, and I have a question. Last week, I had a cold and experienced nasal congestion, so I rinsed my ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Ah Wei: 1. The so-called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria fowleri refers to an infection that occurs when a person immerses their nose or head in water contaminated with this amoeba. The organism enters through the nasal passages and invades...[Read More] Can Using Tap Water for Nasal Irrigation Lead to Brain-Eating Amoeba Infection?
Head Injury Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Bump
Post-trauma issues Hello, Doctor. Today, while I was picking up clothes, I accidentally bumped the front of my head against a wall corner. Although there is no swelling or bleeding, I would like to ask if this could lead to any serious problems. I remember seeing in a drama that ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. Lina: 1. In the event of a head injury, if there is an immediate loss of consciousness or a state of coma, even if the person quickly regains awareness, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care at a hospital. This means that a brief lucid interval may indicate impen...[Read More] Head Injury Concerns: When to Seek Medical Attention After a Bump
Understanding Facial Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Discomfort
There is something unusual about the face? Hello, doctor. I have a pimple located below my cheekbone, near the parotid gland, masseter muscle, and temporomandibular joint. It hurts when I talk and eat, and it is also painful to touch. The pain comes in waves. Pain relievers and m...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Avi: Please visit an otolaryngologist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Facial Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Discomfort
Can You Swim with Paronychia? Healing Time and Care Tips
Can I swim with paronychia? I recently had an ingrown toenail treated, and the hospital removed the entire toenail because I had ingrown toenails on both the inner and outer sides. This was done on June 16. I would like to know how long it will take before I can get the wound wet...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Ka: 1. Since each person's condition and disease situation is different, it is best to direct your questions to your attending surgeon. 2. Generally speaking, because it is an open wound and lacks the protection of nails, the skin barrier against bacteria is very th...[Read More] Can You Swim with Paronychia? Healing Time and Care Tips
Can You Still Get Tetanus After Wounds Have Healed?
Is it still possible to contract tetanus after a wound has scabbed over or healed? A few days ago, I accidentally cut myself while shaving in the bathroom, resulting in several wounds. However, they are not very deep. I later noticed that the razor was a bit rusty. Given that the...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
1. The incubation period for Clostridium tetani is approximately 2 to 14 days; however, most cases manifest symptoms around 3 to 6 days. 2. Tetanus bacteria are classified as anaerobic; due to the good blood circulation in the face, the risk of infection is low if your wound is s...[Read More] Can You Still Get Tetanus After Wounds Have Healed?
Understanding Lymphocyte Decline: Causes and Next Steps in Family Medicine
Lymphocyte decrease? Hello, Doctor. Recently, my blood test results show that my lymphocyte count has decreased to 18 (normal range: 19-48), while the other values are generally normal. My neutrophil segment is at 73 (normal range: 40-74) and my white blood cell count is 5090 (no...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Zhang: The values you have presented are still considered within the normal range of clinical variation, meaning they represent acceptable minor fluctuations. If there are no specific symptoms or discomfort, you can continue to follow up at a general internal medicine ou...[Read More] Understanding Lymphocyte Decline: Causes and Next Steps in Family Medicine
Understanding Nausea and Loss of Appetite: When to Seek Medical Help
Nausea and loss of appetite? Hello, doctor. Last year, I experienced nausea and loss of appetite, which led to weight loss. After seeing a doctor, my condition improved slightly. However, two weeks ago, I suddenly felt nauseous while eating, accompanied by a rapid heartbeat and c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. 751: 1. Please consult the physician you saw last year for "weight loss due to nausea and loss of appetite" before making any decisions. 2. Generally, when encountering patients with nausea and loss of appetite, physicians will consider infectious diseases, ...[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Loss of Appetite: When to Seek Medical Help