Understanding Radiation Exposure in Abdominal Medical Imaging
Abdominal medical radiation examinations and medical history inquiry? Condition: Recently, I have had a poor appetite and felt unwell overall. I have developed an aversion to food and experienced some watery diarrhea, but without abdominal pain. I have been having bowel movements...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: A diagnosis can only be confirmed after arranging for examinations. Generally, a CT scan of the abdomen does involve radiation exposure, but it is within safe limits. Additionally, an endoscopy may be arranged to check for Helicobacter pylori infection, as this bacterium c...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Exposure in Abdominal Medical Imaging
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
The CEA level is 17.78? Hello Doctor, five years ago I was hospitalized due to duodenal obstruction and was found to have a 4.5 cm benign cyst in the tail of the pancreas. I underwent surgery to remove the affected part of the pancreas that same year, and I was hospitalized for 3...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: An elevated CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) level can occur in various malignancies such as colorectal cancer, lung adenocarcinoma, breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, gastric cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Additionally, other non-malignant conditions like chron...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results and Follow-Up Care
Issues with the health examination report? Hello, I was vaccinated when I was young, but it seems that I did not produce antibodies, so I was diagnosed as a carrier of hepatitis B last year. I have been monitored since then, and there have been no significant issues. My doctor ad...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you are already a carrier of hepatitis B, receiving the hepatitis B vaccine is no longer meaningful; regular follow-ups every six months are sufficient. Elevated eosinophil levels can have many causes, such as allergic diseases, parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Hemoglobin A1c: Am I at Risk for Prediabetes?
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Hello doctor, I recently donated blood, and I received the test report a few days ago. Every item, such as BMI, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, etc., is normal, but my hemoglobin A1c level is 5.9. Does this mean I have prediabetes?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level is 5.9, which is within the normal range and does not indicate prediabetes. A fasting blood glucose level exceeding 100 mg/dL is required to diagnose prediabetes. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Hemoglobin A1c: Am I at Risk for Prediabetes?
Understanding Constipation: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies
Doubts about whether one is experiencing constipation? Hello, doctor! I have been experiencing constipation for about 10 days, but I'm not quite sure if it's constipation. Sometimes after having a bowel movement (which is relatively soft), I feel the urge to go again, b...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you are uncertain whether you have been experiencing constipation for 10 years, it is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination to confirm. Chronic constipation can be detrimental to your health, so it is important to change your dietary habits by increasing your...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies
Understanding Head Pain: Stress or Screen Time?
Head issues This week is exam week, and I've been staying up late for online self-study. Since yesterday, I've been experiencing a dull ache in my forehead and the sides of my occiput behind my ears. The pain is particularly noticeable in the areas behind my ears, where...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: High stress or prolonged computer use can be potential causes. If symptoms improve after resting, that is a good sign. However, if symptoms persist without improvement, it may be necessary to seek medical attention at a hospital. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Head Pain: Stress or Screen Time?
Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Signs of Relapse and Complications
Hyperthyroidism Hello, doctor. I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask a question. My wife has a thyroid condition and previously experienced complications with her heart and kidney failure. However, she was stabilized and has been on medication for management. ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you have bruising on your body, you should seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause, whether it is due to a deficiency in platelets or a coagulation disorder. Regarding thyroid function issues, you should also get tested for TSH, Free T3, and Free T4 to ob...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Signs of Relapse and Complications
Possible Causes of Left Upper Abdominal Pain: What to Know
Left upper abdominal pain? Hello doctor, my girlfriend has been experiencing sharp pain in her upper left abdomen near the ribs. The pain worsens with deep breaths, and she has a decreased appetite. Her bowel movements are normal, and this has been ongoing for about two days. Cou...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If symptoms persist, it is recommended to visit a hospital for further examination, such as an abdominal X-ray or abdominal ultrasound, to accurately identify the cause. Thank you for your message![Read More] Possible Causes of Left Upper Abdominal Pain: What to Know
Chest Pain When Sneezing: Causes and Solutions for Allergy Sufferers
Chest pain when sneezing? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a concern. I have a history of nasal allergies and often sneeze, but recently I've been experiencing severe chest pain that feels like tearing when I sneeze. Sometimes the pain is intense enough to make me tea...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If the symptoms persist, it is recommended to visit a hospital for further examination, such as a chest X-ray. Thank you for your message![Read More] Chest Pain When Sneezing: Causes and Solutions for Allergy Sufferers
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Abdominal issues? Hello doctor, I've recently been experiencing a slight pain in my abdomen, just to the left of my navel. It's not extremely painful, but I also have been passing gas frequently and my stomach feels bloated. What could these symptoms indicate?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If the symptoms persist, it is recommended to go directly to the hospital for a detailed examination to identify the cause. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Managing Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Risks of Mixed Medication Use
Mixing medications for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism? Hello! I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in 2010 and have been taking medication regularly until 2015. However, at the beginning of 2016, I found out that I had developed hyperthyroidism. I have been taking hyperthyroid...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Regarding issues related to the thyroid, it is best to discuss treatment options directly with your attending physician. Thank you for your message![Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism: Risks of Mixed Medication Use
Understanding Chronic Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort I have been experiencing long-term gastrointestinal discomfort without specific treatment. I have had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for a long time. My bowel movements are regular, occurring once a day and are healthy. Occasionally, I experien...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to visit a hospital for examination. If there is an infection with Helicobacter pylori in the stomach, it often presents with the symptoms mentioned above. Identifying the cause is essential for thorough improvement. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Chronic Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Sudden Weight Gain: Possible Thyroid Issues and Other Concerns
Weight increased by five kilograms within a week? Hello, as mentioned, I weighed 49 kg on the night of March 27 and 54 kg on March 31. I haven't been overeating these past few days. The only unusual thing is that last night, I suddenly developed a small bump on my lower lip ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you have gained 5 kilograms in weight within four days, you should promptly go to the hospital for an examination to determine if it is due to nephrotic syndrome causing systemic edema. Thank you for your message![Read More] Sudden Weight Gain: Possible Thyroid Issues and Other Concerns
Managing Arrhythmias in Hyperthyroidism: Insights and Recommendations
Arrhythmia in Hyperthyroidism Hello, Doctor. I was diagnosed with Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism at the age of 40. I have been taking medication for hyperthyroidism for a year now, but I still occasionally experience arrhythmias, with a heart rate of about 120, especial...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: You should go to the hospital for further examination of thyroid function abnormalities. As for your daughter's T4 and TSH levels, they are within the normal range. If her symptoms persist, you should promptly visit the hospital to identify the underlying cause. Thank...[Read More] Managing Arrhythmias in Hyperthyroidism: Insights and Recommendations
Managing Anxiety and Respiratory Symptoms: Understanding Your Health Concerns
Anxiety, tension, excessive nasal mucus, and phlegm? Hello, doctor. Since February of this year, I have experienced an increase in nasal discharge and started coughing up phlegm. On one or two occasions, I noticed blood-streaked sputum, so I consulted an ENT specialist who confir...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you have a persistent cough that has not improved, it is best to go to the hospital for a chest X-ray to check for any abnormalities. Stress, anxiety, and panic can lead to shortness of breath and increased heart rate, so it is advisable to manage your emotions. Thank y...[Read More] Managing Anxiety and Respiratory Symptoms: Understanding Your Health Concerns
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: A Guide to Blood Test Results
Anemia issues Hello Doctor: This is my boyfriend's blood test report: WBC 4.57, RBC 5.95, HGB 10.5, Ht 36.4, MCV 61.2, MCH 17.6, MCHC 28.8, PLT 417. Does this indicate Mediterranean anemia?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It could be either thalassemia or iron deficiency anemia, and further testing is needed to confirm. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: A Guide to Blood Test Results
Understanding Post-Cold Cough: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Post-cold cough rebound? Hello, doctor. I caught a cold around the end of February and recovered after a week, but I have been coughing continuously since then. Around March 10th, the cough became very severe, preventing me from sleeping at night. Following my family's advic...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If the cough persists and does not improve, a chest X-ray is recommended to determine the cause. If a bacterial infection is not confirmed, the use of antibiotics is not advised. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Post-Cold Cough: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Is It Safe to Rub Your Stomach Hard for Constipation Relief?
Can vigorous abdominal rubbing cause injury? I often experience constipation, so sometimes I massage my abdomen to promote gastrointestinal motility. However, if I apply too much pressure while massaging, could it cause any harm?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If not too much force is used, it should not cause any injury. Chronic constipation can also be improved by changing dietary habits. Thank you for your message![Read More] Is It Safe to Rub Your Stomach Hard for Constipation Relief?
Fast Heart Rate and Dizziness: Understanding the Connection and Causes
Rapid heartbeat and dizziness? About a week ago, I consulted a doctor at a clinic due to chest tightness. The doctor noted that my heart rate was quite fast and suggested that it might be due to stress or other psychological factors, prescribing medication to help slow it down. H...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you frequently experience a rapid heartbeat and dizziness, please go to the hospital for an examination. Conditions such as anxiety, high stress, hyperthyroidism, or arrhythmias can cause a rapid heartbeat. Additionally, if you notice any lumps in your body, you should ...[Read More] Fast Heart Rate and Dizziness: Understanding the Connection and Causes
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights for Relief
Left abdominal pain? Pain in the left abdomen that occurs during relaxation but not during exertion, lasting for one to two days, could be due to several reasons. It may be related to muscle strain, gastrointestinal issues such as gas or bloating, or even referred pain from other...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many potential causes for left abdominal pain, such as gastritis, splenic abscess, kidney stones, pyelonephritis, renal tumors, and intestinal obstruction, among others. It is recommended that if the symptoms persist, you should promptly visit a hospital for an e...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights for Relief