Understanding Left-Sided Lower Back Pain: Causes and Remedies
Left-sided lower back pain? Hello doctor, recently when I wake up and get out of bed, I notice that my lower back is very sore and feels warm. The pain is on one side, and I've been rubbing it to try to relieve the soreness, which has caused a slight swelling. I usually work...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
A netizen has experienced acute back pain for two days. Possible issues could stem from the internal organs, kidneys, urinary system, spine, or soft tissues in the back. Simply sitting for too long should not cause swelling or warmth. It is recommended to seek medical attention f...[Read More] Understanding Left-Sided Lower Back Pain: Causes and Remedies
Managing Insomnia While Taking Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Medications for Ankylosing Spondylitis and Sleep Issues Hello Doctor: I was recently diagnosed with AS, and five days ago I started taking Planequil once in the morning and once in the evening. I have noticed that after taking the medication, my mood becomes unusually elevated, a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Generally, patients with AS (Ankylosing Spondylitis) do not take Plaquenil; they are more likely to be prescribed Prednisolone, as the latter has more side effects that can affect sleep. If medication causes side effects, it is advisable to return to the doctor for a discussion r...[Read More] Managing Insomnia While Taking Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Impact of High Anti-TPO Antibodies on Fertility and Pregnancy Health
Thyroid peroxidase antibodies Hello, I am currently planning to get pregnant, but after a health check, I found that my thyroid peroxidase antibody (anti-TPO) level is over a hundred, while my FT4 and TSH levels are normal. Will this affect my fertility? If so, are there medicati...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, I recommend visiting an endocrinology clinic for medical consultation, as I specialize in rheumatology and am concerned about providing incorrect information. Thank you.[Read More] Impact of High Anti-TPO Antibodies on Fertility and Pregnancy Health
Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello doctor, about a week ago I suddenly experienced a sharp pain in my lower back, similar to a strain. Moving my back causes pain, but after a day or two, the pain only occurs at night when I get up to use the bathroom and in the morning when I wake up. ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the condition you mentioned, ankylosing spondylitis, is classified as chronic inflammatory back pain. Since it has only been occurring for about a week, I recommend monitoring the situation. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, it would be advisable to see a doctor. A...[Read More] Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding c-ANCA Positivity: Implications for Your Health and Vision
c-ANCA positive Hello, Doctor. Since April of this year, I have experienced two episodes of transient visual disturbances resembling a TIA, where my vision became blurry for a few seconds and then returned to normal, usually around mealtime. Sometimes I also feel dizzy, so I cons...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
1. C-ANCA positivity is less likely to cause eye problems. 2. C-ANCA positivity is associated with Wegener's granulomatosis (now known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis, GPA), and a series of tests must be conducted for a definitive diagnosis. 3. Whether to initiate me...[Read More] Understanding c-ANCA Positivity: Implications for Your Health and Vision
Understanding Sarcoidosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Chest pain associated with sarcoma? Hello Doctor: Last October, I experienced prolonged unexplained fever (38 degrees Celsius) and visited the infectious disease department multiple times for examinations. During this period, I also had night sweats, weight loss (3 kg in one mont...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
1. Sarcomatoid carcinoma is not a common disease, and it is recommended to seek medical attention at a medical center. 2. Bringing all relevant medical records can help the physician quickly understand your condition. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Sarcoidosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Lupus: Low Platelets, Pregnancy Concerns, and Treatment Options
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Hello Dr. Tseng, I have some questions regarding systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). My wife has low platelet counts, and the hospital has identified three criteria that are consistent with SLE; we are still waiting for the X-ray results. If sh...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, netizen. 1. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) typically presents with sudden onset of symptoms or abnormalities discovered during examinations, and the exact etiology is not fully understood. 2. If thrombocytopenia is the only finding during pregnancy, it does not nece...[Read More] Understanding Lupus: Low Platelets, Pregnancy Concerns, and Treatment Options
Understanding Chest Pain: A Guide to Diagnosis and Management
Chest issues Hello doctor, last year I experienced pain in my left chest rib and first went to a small hospital to see a pulmonologist. After an X-ray, the doctor said there were no issues and referred me to the cardiology department at Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Upo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, it is possible that the pain is caused by myofascial issues. I suggest you consult an orthopedic specialist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: A Guide to Diagnosis and Management
Understanding Acne on Chest and Back: Hormonal and Skin Concerns
There are acne and pimples on both the back and chest? I have a lot of acne and pimples on my chest and back. I've seen a dermatologist several times and have used medication, but there hasn't been much improvement. People say that high levels of male hormones can cause...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it seems you have quite a few acne and comedones on your chest and back, as well as some stretch marks on both sides of your abdomen. These are all skin symptoms, and I recommend consulting a dermatologist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Acne on Chest and Back: Hormonal and Skin Concerns
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management Insights
Regarding Sjögren's syndrome? Hello, I would like to ask about my recent blood test at the rheumatology clinic. The doctor mentioned that I have Sjögren's syndrome because my blood tested positive for Anti-SSA antibodies. I would like to know if a positive result for th...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, online user: A diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome requires the presence of symptoms such as dry mouth or dry eyes, confirmed by a physician, along with positive results for Anti-SSA or Anti-SSB antibodies. This condition can be well managed and is not considered very sev...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management Insights
Persistent Hiccups: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Persistent hiccups I would like to ask the doctor about persistent hiccups that have lasted for three days. I took medication and the hiccups stopped, but after a month, they suddenly returned and have been continuous, even to the point of feeling nauseous. The hiccups seem to co...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: Hiccups are generally related to issues with the gastrointestinal system or the nervous system. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for differential diagnosis. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood Test Results: Assessing Chest Pain and Heart Attack Risk
Symbolic significance of specimens 1. The laboratory results you provided show the following values: - White blood cell count: 10,000 cells/µL (normal range is typically 4,000 to 11,000 cells/µL) - Neutrophils: 76.1% (normal range is usually around 40-70%) - Lymphocytes: 15.3% ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the only test result showing is a slightly elevated CRP at 0.8 (normal <0.5), while all other results are normal. Based on your tests and symptoms, a diagnosis of myocardial infarction cannot be made. If you have concerns, it is recommended that you consult a cardiologi...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Assessing Chest Pain and Heart Attack Risk
Understanding Pain in Vasculitis: Insights for Lupus Patients
Vasculitis pain sensation Dear Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus, and I have vasculitis in my fingers and toes. Initially, the vasculitis on my fingers appeared red and slightly raised, and it was usually not painful, only causing a tingling sensation w...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it is possible that vasculitis is causing your sensory abnormalities. Whether to adjust your medication should be determined after a follow-up visit with your physician. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Pain in Vasculitis: Insights for Lupus Patients
Thyroid Issues: Understanding Symptoms Like Tinnitus and Muscle Spasms
Endocrinology A family member has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and is currently taking medication for it. They are now experiencing occasional symptoms such as tinnitus, tongue numbness, loss of taste, and neck cramps. Are these symptoms related to the thyroid condition?
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: I am a rheumatologist and I recommend consulting an endocrinologist. Thank you.[Read More] Thyroid Issues: Understanding Symptoms Like Tinnitus and Muscle Spasms
Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Chest tightness/chest pain Hello doctor, I have been experiencing chest tightness and chest pain for more than half a month, and sometimes I have difficulty breathing. On March 17, I went to the emergency room, and the doctor ordered blood tests which came back normal. I was advi...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, online user: There are many causes of chest pain, and it is recommended to see a pulmonologist for evaluation and examination. If the emergency blood test results are normal, should further in-depth tests be conducted? This should be determined after a consultation with a ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Diagnosis, Severity, and Management
Dry serum testing issues? 1. If only SSA and SSB tests were conducted and both results are abnormal, but no saliva or tear gland-related examinations were performed, can it be definitively concluded that Sjögren's syndrome is present? 2. Is there a classification of severi...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, netizen: 1. The tests for Anti-SSA and Anti-SSB are both abnormal. It is necessary to include symptoms of dry mouth or dry eyes and to conduct related examinations of saliva or tear glands to confirm the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome. The levels of SSA or SSB do n...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Diagnosis, Severity, and Management
Understanding Weight Distribution and Healthy Eating for Students
I am a student? Hello, Doctor! 1. I am currently a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably larger (while my waist is relatively slim). Could you explain why this is happening? Are there any methods to impro...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, thank you for your question. However, my knowledge in this area is limited, and I may not provide an accurate response. I recommend consulting a nutritionist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Weight Distribution and Healthy Eating for Students
Understanding Alternating Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
I have alternating pain in my left and right abdomen? Hello Doctor: At first, I only experienced bloating, which made me feel nauseous in the evening, along with some mild belching and flatulence. Then, a day later, I started having slight pain in my left abdomen, which has now s...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, if you are experiencing abdominal pain that moves around to different areas, it could be related to gastrointestinal issues. If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. Additionally, if you notice a thick white discharge wi...[Read More] Understanding Alternating Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Managing Proteinuria in Lupus: Dietary Tips and Treatment Insights
Lupus proteinuria Hello, I have been diagnosed with lupus for about 10 years. Due to fluctuating levels, my steroid dosage has been adjusted multiple times. Recently, I discovered I have 3+ proteinuria, and I have never been hospitalized. My recent exercise levels have increased ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: Exercise can indeed lead to trace amounts of urinary protein, but it is very rare to reach a level of 3+ proteinuria. It is important to monitor whether lupus is affecting the kidneys. The diet should be low in sodium and salt, and excessive protein intake s...[Read More] Managing Proteinuria in Lupus: Dietary Tips and Treatment Insights
Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Muscle pain Hello, doctor: Three days ago, I suddenly experienced pain in my right chest. It hurts when I speak forcefully, cough, and my right fingers are numb. I also have pain in my right upper arm, and bending my body forward causes more pain in my right chest. The pain worse...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it's recommended to visit a pulmonologist for an examination. Thanks.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention