Managing High Albumin and Liver Enzymes: Dietary Tips for Better Health
Biochemical test issues? Hello doctor, I have undergone a health check-up. In the biochemical tests over the past 2-3 years, my albumin level was 5.8, which is slightly high, and my GOT was 40 and GPT was 59, both of which are elevated. I would like to know what I should pay atte...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
It is best to first determine whether there is chronic viral hepatitis or fatty liver to identify the cause of elevated liver enzymes, and then treat accordingly. If it is viral hepatitis, dietary changes may have limited benefits, but if it is fatty liver, one should avoid high-...[Read More] Managing High Albumin and Liver Enzymes: Dietary Tips for Better Health
Am I Experiencing a Fever? Understanding Body Temperature Fluctuations
Is this considered a fever? Dear Doctor, Hello. Recently, I have been feeling a lot of eye strain, so I suspect I might have a fever. I have been measuring my temperature every hour from yesterday to today, using axillary temperature. Here are the readings: From July 24: 11:00 ...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Mr. Albert: Hello. Your axillary temperature is mostly below 37 degrees Celsius (14 out of 17 measurements), with three instances exceeding 37 degrees. I wouldn't classify this as a persistent fever. However, some of your temperature readings are slightly elevated. Generally...[Read More] Am I Experiencing a Fever? Understanding Body Temperature Fluctuations
Understanding Hair Loss and Hormonal Imbalances: Your Questions Answered
Some questions..? Hello, doctor! I have some questions to ask! 1. I read online that excessive masturbation can cause hair loss, while others say it does not. Which one is correct? 2. My friend has a lot of facial hair. He mentioned that a doctor told him he has hormonal imba...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. A-Sa, Hello! Western medicine does not consider masturbation to be a cause of baldness. However, neither Western nor Traditional Chinese Medicine has conducted large-scale studies on this issue, so strictly speaking, there is no definitive answer to whether masturbation...[Read More] Understanding Hair Loss and Hormonal Imbalances: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Kidney Displacement: Potential Risks and Complications
About the kidneys? I recently experienced a sensation of something in my left kidney. After undergoing a urethrogram, it was found that only my right kidney is slightly displaced. What potential complications could arise from this? During a previous examination, the doctor mentio...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Lin, Hello! According to your letter, your intravenous pyelography revealed that your right kidney is descended, but your symptoms are occurring on the left side (where you often feel something in the left kidney area). You did not mention whether there are any symptoms...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Displacement: Potential Risks and Complications
Understanding Left Abdominal and Back Pain: Possible Kidney Issues?
Low back pain Since last week, I have been experiencing mild bloating and pain in my left abdomen. Due to a long history of gastrointestinal issues, I initially thought it was related to my digestive system. However, the pain has now extended to my left flank and lower back, acco...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Kay77 329X, Hello. The dull pain and tightness from the left lower back to the posterior waist may be indicative of a musculoskeletal disorder; however, renal or other urinary tract issues cannot be ruled out. Therefore, it would be appropriate to consult specialists in...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal and Back Pain: Possible Kidney Issues?
Persistent Dizziness After Showering: Causes and Solutions
Dizziness After washing my hair (or after showering), I always feel slightly dizzy (without a headache) and then I feel sleepy. I dry my hair with a towel but I don't use a hairdryer. The shower lasts about 5 to 10 minutes and the temperature is moderate. A few days after ge...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. A-Yong, Hello. You inquired about experiencing mild dizziness after washing your hair (or after showering), and that you feel dizzy for several days after getting a haircut. I am honored that you chose me to respond. However, I am a nephrologist, and dizziness is not my...[Read More] Persistent Dizziness After Showering: Causes and Solutions
Exploring Kidney Donation: Testing, Confidentiality, and Blood Type Compatibility
I would like to undergo kidney donation screening? Since my father is currently undergoing dialysis at your hospital, witnessing his struggles and inconveniences has motivated us, his children, to consider kidney donation. I would like to know if it is necessary to have the evalu...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Ooariel, Hello. I greatly admire your filial piety. If you wish to undergo kidney donation evaluations at Taoyuan General Hospital, please consult with Dr. Wu Ching-Tang from the Department of Surgery. Dr. Wu specializes in kidney transplantation at our hospital. Living...[Read More] Exploring Kidney Donation: Testing, Confidentiality, and Blood Type Compatibility
Understanding Right Side Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
The location of my pain is 20 centimeters to the right of the navel? The area of pain is located 20 centimeters to the right of the navel (waist size 31 inches, weight 61 kg) in the lower back. I have been experiencing this for 10 months. I underwent acupuncture with traditional ...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Mr. Jeff: Hello. You have been experiencing right-sided lower back pain for the past 10 months, and despite treatment from both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine (rehabilitation and orthopedic specialists), it has not been completely resolved. Based on your sympto...[Read More] Understanding Right Side Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Addressing Mobility Issues in Dialysis Patients: Treatment Options Explained
The issue of leg immobility in dialysis patients? Hello, doctor: I have a question regarding potential complications after dialysis. My mother-in-law has been on dialysis for many years, and in recent years, her legs have become increasingly weak, to the point where she can barel...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Ms. Amy: Hello. Your mother-in-law's legs are becoming increasingly weak, to the point where she can hardly walk. We need to determine the cause. As for your mother-in-law, I understand she has heard about an injection that involves six treatments, after which she would be a...[Read More] Addressing Mobility Issues in Dialysis Patients: Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Hematuria: Kidney Health Concerns and Solutions
Hematuria Hello. My husband recently had a health check-up and found issues with hematuria and proteinuria. Could this indicate a problem with his kidneys? Is this situation considered serious? Could it lead to kidney deficiency? Is there a way to improve this condition?
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the source of hematuria can originate from any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. As for the proteins found in proteinuria, they must originate from the kidneys. Therefore, if hematuria is accompanied by proteinuria, it typical...[Read More] Understanding Hematuria: Kidney Health Concerns and Solutions
Why Do My Fingers Swell and Feel Tight Upon Waking?
Waking up with swollen and tight fingers? Hello Dr. Yao: May I ask why my fingers are swollen and tight upon waking up? Thank you.
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Pu Pu, Edema indicates an excess of fluid. Since the distribution of fluid is primarily determined by gravity, if there is generalized edema, it may be more pronounced in the lower extremities during the day, while upon waking, the edema may be more noticeable in the up...[Read More] Why Do My Fingers Swell and Feel Tight Upon Waking?
Understanding Leg Swelling and Heel Pain: Causes and Treatments
Lower limb lymphadenopathy Hello Dr. Yao, I have two symptoms: 1. There is a hard lump about the size of a half peanut near the left leg at the popliteal fossa; I have noticed it for about three weeks, and sometimes it seems to be smaller. 2. After getting out of bed, I exp...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Yao, Hello. The hard lump at the acupoint "Shu Xi" may be considered as lymphadenopathy, which could be caused by inflammation, tumors, or other factors. I recommend that you visit our general surgery outpatient department, where the physician will assess the ...[Read More] Understanding Leg Swelling and Heel Pain: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Muscle Strain vs. Rhabdomyolysis: When to Seek Medical Help
Rhabdomyolysis Hello, doctor. On August 14, I strained my neck muscles due to chiropractic treatment. Recently, I came across symptoms and causes of rhabdomyolysis online, so I have some questions for you. My muscle strain has not healed yet. When I initially got injured, I felt ...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello, I apologize for the delayed response to your email. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition caused by damage to skeletal muscle, leading to the destruction and dissolution of muscle cells, which release myoglobin and other harmful substances into the bloodstream, affecting the entir...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Strain vs. Rhabdomyolysis: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Fatigue and Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
(Worried about) lower back pain and easy fatigue? Recently, I have been feeling easily fatigued and experiencing some lower back pain. What could be the cause of this? I am quite worried and would appreciate the doctor's insight. Thank you!
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The issue of easy fatigue can be considered from many angles. It may be due to high work stress, anxiety, or a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. If there are physical abnormalities, it is advisable to check for diseases related to the liver, heart, or endocrine system...[Read More] Understanding Fatigue and Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Should You See a Doctor for Persistent Foamy Urine After Medication?
excuse me? Hello doctor, I recently had an injury and have been taking anti-inflammatory medication for nearly three months. I stopped taking it 2-3 days ago and have noticed that the bubbles in my urine are difficult to dissipate. There are still some small bubbles after a minut...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello, excessive and persistent foaming in urine may be a possible indication of proteinuria (though it is not the only cause). Please visit a hospital for a urine test to rule out any concerns regarding proteinuria. Sincerely, Dr. Chuan Yao, Nephrology Department, Taoyuan Hospit...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Persistent Foamy Urine After Medication?
Anemia Concerns: Do I Really Need a Blood Transfusion?
Anemia! Is a blood transfusion necessary? Hello, Doctor: I often feel dizzy and almost faint. 1. Before feeling dizzy, I experience some pain and tightness in my heart. 2. I have a tendency to become easily irritable. 3. I feel very fatigued every day. 4. My limbs often feel sore...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Ms. Hsiao, According to your blood test report, you are classified as having "microcytic anemia." The more common causes are iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. Your hemoglobin level is at #9 (which is low), and if you require a blood transfusion to raise your...[Read More] Anemia Concerns: Do I Really Need a Blood Transfusion?
Understanding Blood Pressure Concerns: Key Questions for Managing Hypertension
Regarding blood pressure issues? Hello Doctor: My mother is 63 years old and has a hypertension issue, but she only takes her medication when she feels unwell. Recently, she has been experiencing chest tightness and a rapid heartbeat. When measuring her blood pressure at the clin...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Blood pressure exhibits a circadian rhythm, which is related to the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. It is lowest during sleep and highest in the early morning. However, daytime blood pressure is primarily influenced by daily activities and is less related ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Concerns: Key Questions for Managing Hypertension
Overcoming Sexual Anxiety: Solutions for Young Men Facing ED
Please help me, I beg you!! I am eighteen years old, but I have not engaged in sexual intercourse yet. However, when I watch adult films and become aroused, if I step away for a moment, I lose my erection. I have been masturbating since I was around ten years old, sometimes doing...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many factors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction, and it is advisable to consult a specialist for an evaluation. It is generally believed that there is no direct relationship with masturbation. Sincerely, Dr. Hsiu-Yi Chen, Urologist.[Read More] Overcoming Sexual Anxiety: Solutions for Young Men Facing ED
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Conflicting Diagnoses and Symptoms
Is it Mediterranean anemia? Hello Dr. Yao, 1. Three years ago, I had an examination at Keelung Hospital, where Dr. A diagnosed me with thalassemia, but Dr. B said I did not have it, explaining that thalassemia is not the same as Mediterranean anemia. I didn't understand, bu...
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it is difficult to determine why the diagnoses from the two physicians differ. Is it possible that the two physicians had access to different information? Thalassemia is caused by abnormalities in hemoglobin. A hemoglobin electrophoresis test can be used for diagnosis. Pat...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Conflicting Diagnoses and Symptoms
Effective Treatments for Persistent Cough: Relief Strategies Explained
How can cough be treated? Why have I been coughing continuously? I've been treating it for a long time, and the cough is very severe. I'm in a lot of pain!
Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine
Dear Miss Yu-Juan, There are many reasons for a persistent cough. According to statistics, common causes include side effects from medications, post-nasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and asthma. For example, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), whi...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Persistent Cough: Relief Strategies Explained