Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Management
Joint pain I have juvenile arthritis and fibromyalgia. I have been managing my condition with medication for about a year, and it has improved significantly. However, after an accidental ankle sprain and fracture, my joints suddenly started to hurt again. Strangely, my blood test...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: Joint pain can be caused not only by arthritis but also by surrounding structures such as cartilage, ligaments, and muscles. Therefore, it is possible to experience joint pain even if blood test results are normal. Medications for fibromyalgia and arthritis ...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Management
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Options
Sjögren's syndrome Doctor: Hello, I have been experiencing dry mouth and dry eyes, and I initially thought it was due to menopause. However, blood tests revealed that I have Sjögren's syndrome, and the results for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are still pending. I am c...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, user: Mild dizziness, diarrhea, belching, and sweating are likely side effects of the medication. 1. If you only experience dry mouth and dry eyes without any other organ abnormalities, you can discontinue the medication and manage the symptoms. 2. It is possible for the m...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Options
How to Lower Hemoglobin A1c Levels for Better Diabetes Management
Diabetes issues Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about my fasting (8 hours) blood test for hemoglobin A1c. I have seen online that normal levels are between 4% to 6%, but my report shows 5.6%, which is slightly elevated. What can I do to improve this and lower my hemoglobin A1c...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the normal range for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in healthy individuals is approximately 4-6%. Your report of 5.6% falls within the normal range. Maintaining your current avoidance of sweets and sugary beverages, along with daily exercise, should be fine. Thank you for you...[Read More] How to Lower Hemoglobin A1c Levels for Better Diabetes Management
Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?
Which department should I see for my condition? Hello Dr. Tseng: I have been experiencing frequent episodes of overheating, which I am already very sensitive to. When it gets severe, I have intense headaches and excessive sweating. I have also been dealing with anxiety for two ye...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, user: I recommend that you consult a neurologist for autonomic nervous system testing and thyroid endocrine system evaluation. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count in Lupus Patients: Causes and Solutions
Leukopenia My friend has lupus erythematosus and has been undergoing treatment for a long time, with regular check-ups at the hospital. However, this time he has been unable to be discharged due to persistent fever, alternating between high and low temperatures, and he has been h...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, online user: Low white blood cell count combined with fever in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus has two common causes: 1. Infection leading to sepsis, 2. Active disease of systemic lupus erythematosus with unstable control. Identifying the true cause can help res...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count in Lupus Patients: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Diabetes: Concerns and Management for Young Adults
Diabetes issues Hello, Doctor: Today I am going to the hospital to have my blood drawn, and they will test my hemoglobin A1c! I'm really afraid that the report will show elevated levels and that I might have diabetes. I am currently overweight, and my grandmother also has di...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, dear user: Please try not to worry until you receive your report. Moreover, early-stage diabetes can be improved with diet and exercise. Medical advancements are rapid, and managing diabetes is not difficult. You might be overthinking it. Wishing you good health. Thank you...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Concerns and Management for Young Adults
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Interpreting Your Test Results
Inquiry about blood sugar issues? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you a question. During my company's health check-up this year, the HR department informed me that fasting was not required. Therefore, I had breakfast on the day of the check-up and had my blood drawn about...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, if any of the following three criteria are met (at least twice), a diagnosis of diabetes can be made: a. Fasting plasma glucose level equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL. b. Presence of classic diabetes symptoms (such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased h...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Interpreting Your Test Results
How to Achieve a Male Physique: Medical Guidance for Women
Desire to achieve a male physique? Hello doctor, I am a female and I would like to achieve a male physique. Which department should I consult? How can I make this change?
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, online user: The safest and healthiest way to achieve a male physique is through strength training. Additionally, you can visit an endocrinology clinic (such as those at National Taiwan University, Chang Gung, or Taipei Veterans General Hospital) that specializes in this a...[Read More] How to Achieve a Male Physique: Medical Guidance for Women
Understanding Elevated Lupus LA1 Levels During Pregnancy: What It Means
Lupus LA1 value is elevated? Dr. Tseng is currently approximately 9 weeks pregnant and underwent blood tests at the hospital. Initially, the STS RPR test was reactive, but subsequent tests for TPPA and FAT-ABS were negative, which preliminarily rules out syphilis. However, the im...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, netizen: Lupus anticoagulant (LA) refers to autoantibodies against negatively charged phospholipids or phospholipid-protein complexes. The presence of LA may be due to unknown reasons or may be associated with autoimmune diseases or antiphospholipid syndrome (such as unexp...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lupus LA1 Levels During Pregnancy: What It Means
Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?
Long-term low cholesterol levels? Is it necessary to seek medical attention for long-term low cholesterol levels? Since middle school through college, my cholesterol has continuously decreased with age, and my total cholesterol is now only 88. I have poor physical strength, easil...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: A certain level of cholesterol must be present in the body to maintain normal structure and function. Individuals with trauma, surgery, cancer, or infections, as well as those with liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal diseases, may have a reduced ability ...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?
Understanding Uneven Black Spots on the Body: Causes and Next Steps
Unevenly sized black spots on the body? Dear Dr. Tseng: My second brother has developed various sizes of black spots on his chest and back. The skin is rough, and there is no pain or itching, but the spots are increasing in number. The dermatologist said it is neither a skin issu...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: If you notice black spots of various sizes on your skin, it is generally advisable to consult a dermatologist. If the clinic is unable to provide a definitive diagnosis, it is recommended to refer you to a hospital dermatology department that can perform a s...[Read More] Understanding Uneven Black Spots on the Body: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Elevated Postprandial Blood Sugar: Insights and Solutions
Glycated hemoglobin is normal, fasting blood glucose is normal, but postprandial blood glucose is elevated? I undergo a comprehensive health check-up every two years, and my previous blood sugar levels have always been normal. During my recent check-up last month, my fasting bloo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, netizen: Blood glucose levels are a crucial indicator for diagnosing diabetes. In healthy individuals, fasting blood glucose levels after an 8-hour fast should be below 100 mg/dL, and blood glucose levels two hours after a meal should be below 140 mg/dL. If fasting blood g...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Postprandial Blood Sugar: Insights and Solutions
Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like Lupus?
Autoimmune system diseases Hello, doctor. Can a person develop autoimmune diseases solely due to emotional stress, such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus? Or is emotion merely a trigger? If someone does not have the genetic predisposition, emotional stress a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Dear netizens, the occurrence of a disease is rarely due to a single factor; emotional stress or genetics can be potential triggers. By following recommended screenings, adopting the correct medical concepts, and maintaining good lifestyle habits such as proper diet and exercise,...[Read More] Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like Lupus?
Understanding Shellfish Allergy: Key Components That Trigger Reactions
Shellfish allergy I previously underwent an allergy test and it was found that I have an allergic reaction to shellfish. At that time, I forgot to ask which specific component of shellfish I reacted to. Could you please tell me which component is responsible for this reaction?
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Dear netizens: Shellfish allergy indicates an allergic reaction to various protein components found in their structural tissues, rather than an allergy to something on the surface. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Shellfish Allergy: Key Components That Trigger Reactions
Understanding Hyperventilation: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Hyperventilation Hello, doctor! I would like to ask about an incident that happened last month. While I was standing in line for punishment at school, I suddenly fainted and have no recollection of the school nurse and her team bringing a stretcher. I experienced shortness of bre...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, if you experienced a loss of consciousness along with convulsions in your limbs, the likelihood of epilepsy is higher. You should consult a neurologist, as they can clarify your concerns through diagnostic tests and relevant inquiries. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Hyperventilation: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Movable Lumps Under the Chin: What Could They Be?
I can feel small lumps on my chin? I would like to inquire about the lumps I can feel above my Adam's apple on my jawline. They are movable, and pressing on them does not cause pain, nor does swallowing saliva. Could these be lymph nodes? I previously consulted a doctor who ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it may be related to the salivary glands, cartilage, or other soft tissues. It is recommended to seek medical attention from an otolaryngologist. Thank you for your question![Read More] Understanding Movable Lumps Under the Chin: What Could They Be?
Understanding Movable Lumps Below the Chin: Are They Lymph Nodes?
The area above the Adam's apple and below the chin? Hello, I would like to inquire about small round movable lumps that I can feel below my chin and above my Adam's apple. They are not painful when touched. I would like to know if these could be lymph nodes. I am 165 cm...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the issue may be related to the salivary glands or other soft tissues. It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Movable Lumps Below the Chin: Are They Lymph Nodes?
Does Sulfasalazine Affect Male Fertility and Sperm Quality?
Does taking Sulfasalazine affect fertility? Hello Doctor: I have ankylosing spondylitis and have been taking Sulfasalazine (Salazopyrin) for over two years, currently at a dosage of six tablets daily. I would like to know if this medication affects sperm count or motility, as my ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello David, Salazopyrin may be related to your condition, but it is not necessarily the cause. I recommend discussing this with your primary physician and obstetrician. Stopping the medication for three months should help mitigate any potential effects. Thank you for your questi...[Read More] Does Sulfasalazine Affect Male Fertility and Sperm Quality?
Should You Get Further Blood Tests for Low WBC Count?
The white blood cell count (WBC) is 3510, and further detailed blood tests are needed? Hello Doctor, I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have blood tests and abdominal ultrasounds every six months. Previously, my white blood cell (WBC) count was always above 4,300. However, in my l...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Lany: A count of less than 4000 is considered low. For some individuals, this may be a normal variation, while others may require further evaluation. There are many potential causes, and you can consult a hematology clinic for assessment. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Should You Get Further Blood Tests for Low WBC Count?
Understanding Anemia: Is Pale Eyelids a Sign of Blood Issues?
About Anemia Hello, doctor. Five years ago, I had a physical examination, and my blood test results showed no anemia. However, recently I noticed that the inside of my lower eyelids looks pale and lacks color, although my lips and nails are quite pink. I haven't experienced ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Xiao Bu: Pale lower eyelids do not necessarily indicate anemia. It is recommended to visit a hospital or laboratory for a hemoglobin test. If anemia is confirmed, further investigation into the underlying cause of the anemia should be conducted. Remember! Do not take iron ...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Is Pale Eyelids a Sign of Blood Issues?