Thalassemia, Cardiology FAQ

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Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Analyzing Anemia and Cardiovascular Health

Blood test report blood test indices Hello, doctor. Here are my blood test results. There are several abnormal values, and I would like your help in analyzing them. I want to ask which type of anemia I might have. - LDL-C: 129 - NT-proBNP: 27.07 - UIBC: 394 - TIBC (UIBC + Iron)...


Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: A slightly low hemoglobin level (Hb 11.1 g/dL) indicates mild anemia. The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is slightly low but there is no significant iron deficiency (Iron, TIBC is normal), and it does not appear to be thalassemia. Based on these data, iron deficiency anemia...

[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Analyzing Anemia and Cardiovascular Health


Understanding Myocardial Ischemia: Aspirin Use in Thalassemia Patients

Myocardial ischemia medication consultation? Hello Doctor, I experienced discomfort in the left side of my chest in May and June, and I underwent an electrocardiogram (ECG) and a 24-hour Holter monitor. The doctor indicated that both tests showed signs of myocardial ischemia. I a...


Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
There is no conflict between thalassemia and the use of aspirin.

[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Ischemia: Aspirin Use in Thalassemia Patients


Understanding Chest Discomfort and Ischemia in a Young Female Patient

Left chest tightness and discomfort, seeking advice on angina? Hello, Director. I would like to ask you to take some time to analyze the echocardiogram results for a 37-year-old female patient with no history of hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, who does not smoke or dri...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, myocardial ischemia and angina? I haven't seen relevant evidence to assess the severity of the disease; perhaps an exercise electrocardiogram could be arranged? There shouldn't be significant issues with the echocardiogram. If you're feeling uncomfortable, i...

[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort and Ischemia in a Young Female Patient


Post-Meal Rapid Heartbeat and Dizziness: Understanding Your Symptoms

Experiencing a rapid heartbeat and dizziness after eating? Hello Doctor: I am 19 years old, do not have hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, but I have thalassemia and am underweight. Last week, I was diagnosed and have had little appetite; I often start feeling full after ...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, after being diagnosed, it is common to experience heart rhythm issues, which can be monitored initially. If discomfort persists, you should visit a cardiology clinic for further evaluation. A heart rate of 50 to 55 beats per minute before sleep is considered normal; monito...

[Read More] Post-Meal Rapid Heartbeat and Dizziness: Understanding Your Symptoms


Can This Blood Test Indicate Mediterranean Anemia?

I would like to inquire if this test report indicates thalassemia? RBC: 5.77 x 10^6/uL WBC: 5.57 x 10^3/uL Hb: 13.9 g/dL Hct: 42.5% PLT: 271 x 10^3/uL MCV: 73.7 fL MCH: 24.1 pg MCHC: 32.7 g/dL HbH: Negative HbA2: 2.1% HbA1: 97.9% RDW: 33.8% HbF: <0.5% ...


Dr. Li Shengkai Reply:
According to the blood test report you provided, the levels do not indicate anemia; however, the red blood cells are smaller than normal, and since there is no iron deficiency in the body, it raises the suspicion of being a carrier of thalassemia.

[Read More] Can This Blood Test Indicate Mediterranean Anemia?


Understanding Beta Thalassemia: Should My Child Undergo Further Testing?

Beta thalassemia with low hemoglobin levels? Hello doctor, my 4-year-old child had a cold recently that led to pneumonia and required hospitalization. During the hospital stay, a blood test showed a hemoglobin (Hb) level of 8.8. After 4 days, upon discharge, another test showed a...


Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, it is recommended to consult a pediatric hematologist for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment, as well as education on future healthy childbirth. The Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about you.

[Read More] Understanding Beta Thalassemia: Should My Child Undergo Further Testing?


Understanding Low MCV: Is It Iron Deficiency or Thalassemia?

The MCV is decreasing? Recently, I have been frequently visiting the emergency room and cardiology outpatient clinic due to heart issues, but no problems have been identified. Later, it was confirmed at the psychosomatic clinic that I have panic disorder. Below are the blood test...


Dr. Huang Yinghe Reply:
Hello: Low hemoglobin levels are referred to as anemia. MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) is the average volume of red blood cells. Anemia combined with low MCV indicates microcytic anemia, which is commonly associated with two conditions: iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. Thala...

[Read More] Understanding Low MCV: Is It Iron Deficiency or Thalassemia?


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Blood Test Insights

Mediterranean anemia Based on your blood test results showing a hemoglobin level of 12.6 g/dL, MCV of 90.2 fL, and red blood cell count of 4.10 million cells/µL, along with your symptoms of occasional dizziness, especially when standing up after squatting, it is important to cons...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is likely not Mediterranean anemia. Feeling dizzy when standing up could be due to orthostatic hypotension. Please observe the situation. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Blood Test Insights


Understanding Chest Pain and Irregular Heartbeat: Key Insights

Chest tightness with irregular heartbeats? Hello Director He, I would like to ask you about some recent symptoms I've been experiencing. After walking for a longer period (about ten minutes) or walking quickly, as well as climbing stairs, I sometimes feel pain in my chest t...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, individuals with a fast heartbeat and anemia are more likely to experience shortness of breath and fatigue, but this does not necessarily lead to headaches. To determine if there is any arrhythmia, further testing is required. It is advisable to visit a cardiology clinic f...

[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Irregular Heartbeat: Key Insights


Can Surgery Improve Mild Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency?

Can surgery improve tricuspid regurgitation? Is it possible to improve mitral and tricuspid valve insufficiency through surgery? I was diagnosed with mild mitral and tricuspid valve regurgitation at Taipei Medical University Hospital, and the echocardiogram showed it is within ac...


Dr. Wu Xueming Reply:
Mild mitral and tricuspid valve prolapse do not affect cardiac function and do not require surgical repair.

[Read More] Can Surgery Improve Mild Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency?


High Red Blood Cell Count with Possible Anemia: What Does It Mean?

Elevated red blood cell count with suspected anemia? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my recent health check-up report from the beginning of the month. My results show a red blood cell count (RBC) of 616, hemoglobin (HGB) of 12.2, hematocrit (HCT) of 39.2, mean corpuscula...


Dr. Li Han Reply:
Hello, regarding the inquiry about "elevated red blood cells but suspected anemia," the abnormal data from the health check report at the beginning of the month shows irregularities in red blood cells. In terms of quantity, the hemoglobin (HGB) level of 12.2 is consider...

[Read More] High Red Blood Cell Count with Possible Anemia: What Does It Mean?


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Severity and Breathing Issues Explained

Mediterranean anemia Hello~ The lab results show RBC 6.88, Hb 14.5, MCV 66.2, MCH 21, and MCHC 31.8. Given the known diagnosis of thalassemia, are these values considered severe? Additionally, I sometimes feel short of breath and take deep breaths; is this related to anemia?


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it's not serious and is not related to anemia, so there's no need to worry. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Severity and Breathing Issues Explained


Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Concerns

Chest tightness, shortness of breath? Hello, doctor. I understand that psychological and stress-related issues can also lead to chest tightness. When I am under a lot of stress or feeling extremely down, my left chest feels uncomfortable, as if it is being squeezed, and it is dif...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, it is normal to experience a sensation of tightness in the heart when you are under significant emotional stress. You may be showing clear signs of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Additionally, feeling short of breath after taking a hot shower and feeling better when...

[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Concerns


Which Specialist Should I See for Dizziness and Bruising Symptoms?

Which department should I see? The doctor said that I have been experiencing frequent dizziness and chest tightness. I have a family history of thalassemia and also have hepatitis B, for which I am currently taking medication. Recently, I have been noticing frequent bruising and ...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, please visit the Rheumatology Department for an examination at Changhua Hospital. We care about your health.

[Read More] Which Specialist Should I See for Dizziness and Bruising Symptoms?


Understanding Chest Pressure and Pain After Meals: Possible Causes and Concerns

Chest tightness and discomfort? Hello, doctor. A while ago, after having dinner one day, I started feeling gastrointestinal discomfort, followed by vomiting and fever, which led to jaundice. I went to the hospital for a blood test, and the results were normal. However, I experien...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the likelihood of having heart disease is lower if you only feel discomfort after eating. It is advisable to have a thorough examination at the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department upon returning to Taiwan. Changhua Hospital cares about ...

[Read More] Understanding Chest Pressure and Pain After Meals: Possible Causes and Concerns


Should You See a Doctor? Heart Rate Fluctuations Explained

Is it necessary to see a doctor? The heart rate ranged from a low of 43 to a high of 194 beats per minute in one day? Should I see a doctor? In 2017, my smartwatch recorded a high heart rate notification with a minimum heart rate of 39 bpm, a maximum of 186 bpm, and an average wa...


Dr. Lin Jixiong Reply:
Hello: If there is a significant difference in heart rate and you feel uncomfortable or uneasy, you can discuss it with a cardiologist, Dr. Lin Chi-Hsiung.

[Read More] Should You See a Doctor? Heart Rate Fluctuations Explained


Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Analyzing Anemia Risks

Routine Blood Test Report White Blood Cell Count (W.B.C): 5500 Red Blood Cell Count (R.B.C): 6 (red flag/high) Hemoglobin (Hb): 11.5 Hematocrit (Hct): 38.3 Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (M.C.H): 19.2 (red flag/low) Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): 63.8 (red flag/low) Plat...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, the examination happened to coincide with your menstrual period, which may affect the results. Currently, you have mild anemia, and it is recommended to observe your condition and have a re-examination before your next menstrual period. Take care, and we are concerned abou...

[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Analyzing Anemia Risks


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Diagnosis and Genetic Testing Insights

Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello Doctor: I have been considered anemic since childhood. As I grew older, I learned about the different types of anemia. My most recent CBC results are as follows: RBC: 6.25 x 10^12/L, Hb: 127 g/L, MCV: 65.3 fL, MCH: 20.3 pg, M...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, based on the data you provided, there is no evidence of anemia or discomfort. Observation is sufficient. If you still have concerns, it is advisable to consult a hematologist for further examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Diagnosis and Genetic Testing Insights


Understanding Anemia: Is It Mediterranean and Can It Be Inherited?

Anemia issues I recently went to the hospital for a blood test. My red blood cell count is 5.01, hemoglobin is 12.8, hematocrit is 39.9, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 79.6 (normal range: 80.4-95.9), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is 25.5 (normal range: 27.2-33.5), and mean ...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, your hemoglobin level is 12.8, and both the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) are relatively low, which may indicate mild thalassemia. It is advisable to visit a hematology clinic for further examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your...

[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Is It Mediterranean and Can It Be Inherited?


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Insights from a Cardiologist's Perspective

Questions about Mediterranean anemia ~ Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to clarify? Hello Doctor, Below are the results of my complete blood count: 1. White Blood Cell Count: 4.70 (low); Reference range: 4.8–10.8 2. Red Blood Cell Count: 4.31 (low); Reference range: 4.7–...


Dr. He Dongjin Reply:
Hello, based on the information you provided, it does not seem like you have thalassemia. The symptoms you described, such as dizziness, do not appear to be consistent with thalassemia. Please do not worry. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Insights from a Cardiologist's Perspective


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