Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Mediterranean Anemia Concerns
Abnormal blood test results? Hello, doctor! Last month, I went to the health center for a health check-up, and my blood test results were as follows: white blood cells 5.40, red blood cells 4.49, hemoglobin 8.60 (low), and platelets 708 (high). The health check physician told me ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
There are many causes of anemia, and the provided information is insufficient for a diagnosis. Please consult a hematologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Mediterranean Anemia Concerns
Is Anemia Linked to Hair Loss? What to Know and Where to Seek Help
Hair loss? My girlfriend has had thinning hair for a long time. After researching online, she has tried changing shampoos, rarely eats fried foods, and gets plenty of sleep. However, recently, her scalp has become quite visible. She suddenly recalled that she mentioned having ane...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of hair loss, and it is often not due to just one reason. Insufficient hemoglobin, if severe, may require a blood transfusion. As for shampoos, most doctors currently recommend Rogaine. I suggest you visit a major hospital to consult with a dermatolog...[Read More] Is Anemia Linked to Hair Loss? What to Know and Where to Seek Help
Essential Pre-Marital Health Checks for Couples Planning Pregnancy
Pre-marital health checkup Hello, Dr. Tsai. I got married this April and plan to conceive after the end of the year. Since my husband is 41 years old and I am considered a geriatric pregnancy, we did not undergo health checks before marriage. Although both of our companies conduc...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Rachel, Regarding your inquiry, the standard premarital examinations include: A: Tests for both parties: 1. Blood glucose test 2. Urinalysis (primarily to check for proteinuria, hematuria, and other issues) 3. Complete blood count (to check for anemia, especially the p...[Read More] Essential Pre-Marital Health Checks for Couples Planning Pregnancy
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions for Expecting Parents
Questions Regarding the Diagnosis of Oceanic Anemia Hello Doctor, my wife recently went to the hospital for a routine occupational health check-up. Since I am a carrier of thalassemia, I asked her to also undergo testing for thalassemia. The results were as follows: White blood c...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, I recommend visiting the website of the Taiwan Thalassemia Association at http://www.thala.org.tw. It contains detailed information, including the screening process for pregnant women. If you have any questions after reviewing the information, pleas...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions for Expecting Parents
Neck Stiffness and Poor Concentration: Which Specialist to Consult?
If you frequently experience neck stiffness, you should consult a specialist in either orthopedics or neurology. Thank you? Hello: My neck often feels stiff (I don't know how to describe it), and it feels like blood isn't flowing properly, causing my chin to naturally l...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Your condition seems to indicate that if there are no issues with hypertension, it may be due to high lipid levels. I recommend that you visit the Family Medicine outpatient department at Hualien Hospital for a fasting blood test to check your cholesterol and triglycerides...[Read More] Neck Stiffness and Poor Concentration: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Dizziness: Why Standing Up Sudden Causes Lightheadedness
Dizziness Hello, could you please explain why I feel a bit dizzy when I suddenly stand up after sitting (not every time, but occasionally)?
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Sudden dizziness upon standing is commonly associated with 1. anemia 2. orthostatic hypotension. It is recommended that you consult a family medicine physician for assistance. Thank you for your inquiry. Dr. Tsai Jue-ren, Hualien Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Why Standing Up Sudden Causes Lightheadedness
Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Frequent dizziness and lightheadedness? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask a question. I have been experiencing intermittent dizziness for a long time, and recently it has become more frequent. I often need to apply something with menthol to feel a bit better. There was one time ...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of dizziness, such as anemia, otitis media, inner ear imbalance, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), and cerebrovascular diseases, among others. If you have already visited a hospital and consulted an otolaryngologist to rule out ear-related ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Your Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia
What type of anemia am I diagnosed with? Hello Doctor: My CBC results are as follows: Red blood cell count # 3.72 - normal range 4-5.5 (low) Hemoglobin # 7.9 - normal range 12-16 (low) Hematocrit # 26.2 - normal range 37-47 (low) Mean corpuscular volume # 66.5 - normal range 80-9...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Based on the data you provided, it appears to be microcytic anemia. However, it cannot be definitively determined whether it is iron deficiency anemia without the TIBC (Total Iron-Binding Capacity) test result. It is important to note that a hemoglobin level of 7.9 is alre...[Read More] Understanding Your Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia
Is Fushuganlong Capsule Safe for G6PD Patients? Side Effects Explained
Medications Is this medication safe for patients with G6PD deficiency? Chinese name: Fushuganlong Capsules Ingredients: Acetaminophen..........300mg Chlorpheniramine Maleate.........2.5mg Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide.....15mg dl-Methylephedrine Hydrochloride......10mg Potassium ...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, we advise against the use of the aforementioned medications for patients with G6PD deficiency. All medications should be prescribed by a physician, and it is best not to purchase over-the-counter drugs without guidance. The following substances can cause oxidative agents t...[Read More] Is Fushuganlong Capsule Safe for G6PD Patients? Side Effects Explained
Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Dizziness and Pain?
I'm not sure which specialty to see? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing frequent dizziness, shoulder and lower back pain (I have been using topical patches with limited effect). I also have shortness of breath (along with nasal congestion, but it feels like I c...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, your issue may have been ongoing for some time and could possibly be due to anemia. I recommend that you consult your family medicine physician for an evaluation. It doesn't seem serious, so there's no need to worry too much. Dr. Tsai Jue-ren from Hualien Hospita...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Dizziness and Pain?
Why Do I Feel Dizzy for a Few Minutes After Waking Up?
excuse me? Doctor: Why have I been feeling dizzy for a few minutes after waking up in the morning over the past week? It doesn't happen often, just about 5-10 minutes. I have a history of nasal allergies, but they haven't flared up. What could be causing this and which ...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello Wenwen, you may have anemia or other issues. I recommend that you visit a family medicine clinic for an examination. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Xu Li'an 950927[Read More] Why Do I Feel Dizzy for a Few Minutes After Waking Up?
Understanding Low MCH and High RDW: Implications for Iron Deficiency Anemia
Low MCH and high RDW? Hello Dr. Tsai: I previously inquired about related issues, and I appreciate your response. I am attaching additional test data for your review. Thank you~~ I underwent a labor health examination at Taipei Hospital, medical record number: 9999660. However, t...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang, if all other tests are normal, you can rest assured and not worry about the previous test results. If you are not afraid of blood draws, it is recommended that you have another check-up in two years, but please remember to keep the reports. Currently, no treatmen...[Read More] Understanding Low MCH and High RDW: Implications for Iron Deficiency Anemia
Understanding Low MCH and High RDW: Implications and Care Tips
Low MCH and high RDW? The test results show MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) at 26.9, which is low, and RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) at 15.1, which is high. A low MCH indicates that the average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell is lower than normal, which can su...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang, I apologize for only getting back to you after returning from France yesterday. I hope the following response can address your concerns. Low MCH and high RDW typically indicate iron deficiency anemia. However, without the values for Hb and MCV, I cannot provide a...[Read More] Understanding Low MCH and High RDW: Implications and Care Tips
Dizziness and Wrist Numbness: Understanding Your Symptoms and Next Steps
Dizziness and wrist numbness? I have been experiencing wrist numbness for a while now, and I initially thought it was due to excessive computer use. I previously consulted a doctor and underwent some tests, and the doctor prescribed vitamin B, which improved my condition. However...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Dr. Ming-Hsing Lin, Family Medicine Department, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare: There are many causes of dizziness, such as anemia, low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension), neck stiffness, and inner ear imbalance, among others. It is advisable to first...[Read More] Dizziness and Wrist Numbness: Understanding Your Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Dizziness: When to See a Doctor and Which Specialist to Consult
excuse me? I sometimes experience dizziness and instability that lasts for about ten seconds. I need to hold onto something to avoid falling. I would like to know what might be causing this and which department I should visit at the hospital.
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello Weiwei, first we need to check if you have anemia. People with anemia may experience dizziness when changing positions, such as standing up suddenly after squatting. Next, it's important to consult with a neurologist and an otolaryngologist. I recommend that you start ...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: When to See a Doctor and Which Specialist to Consult
Understanding Anemia and Menstrual Irregularities: Causes and Treatments
Anemia and Menstruation Hello, doctor. After a health check, I was diagnosed with moderate anemia. My meals are normal, and my weight is also normal. I have never had anemia before, but recently my menstrual cycle has been irregular, sometimes extending several days beyond the no...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Menorrhagia is often a primary cause of anemia. However, there are many other potential causes. For instance, gastrointestinal bleeding or chronic diseases that lead to impaired function, such as kidney disease or post-gastrectomy conditions, can also contribute. Additionally, co...[Read More] Understanding Anemia and Menstrual Irregularities: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Boosting MCV and Hemoglobin Levels
Iron deficiency anemia During my last physical examination at the military academy, I was disqualified due to low MCV and hemoglobin levels. My values were MCV 75.4 and hemoglobin 11.3. The guidelines state that MCV must be above 80 and hemoglobin must be at least 12. Previously,...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing, Director of the Family Medicine Department at Tainan Hospital, Executive Yuan Health Department: Maintaining a balanced diet, adhering to a regular lifestyle, and engaging in regular exercise may seem like common advice, but when followed to a significan...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Boosting MCV and Hemoglobin Levels
Understanding Nail Changes: Signs of Health Issues and Dizziness
Symptoms of Disease Hello Dr. Tsai, I have a question I would like to ask you regarding a white layer on the inner surface of my fingernails that seems to be gradually shrinking. Does this indicate any discomfort or potential disease in the body? Additionally, I sometimes exper...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello Allen: The size of the lunula at the base of the nail varies from person to person, and whether it can be used as a criterion for assessing bodily diseases is still a matter of debate. However, if there is a noticeable change in its size, it may indicate a change in bodily ...[Read More] Understanding Nail Changes: Signs of Health Issues and Dizziness
Seeking Help: Understanding Dizziness and Its Impact on Daily Life
I am very worried and would like to ask the doctor for help? Hello, doctor. I've been feeling very dizzy for almost a week now. When I walk, it feels like I'm floating, and even sitting in a chair makes me feel dizzy. I feel the need to lean back against the chair for s...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, Mango Princess: Regarding the symptoms you described, we refer to them as "vertigo" until a detailed examination is conducted. The possible causes are as follows: 1. Severe anemia: Patients with this condition may faint due to dizziness. 2. Vestibular neuritis: T...[Read More] Seeking Help: Understanding Dizziness and Its Impact on Daily Life
Are Low Blood Volume and High Platelet Count Related?
Is there a relationship between low hematocrit and high platelet count? Hello Dr. Huang: Happy New Year! I would like to ask you about the results of my recent blood and urine tests. My hematocrit is 65.5, hemoglobin is 21.8 pg, and platelet count is 452. The doctor mentioned tha...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Lisa: There is no direct relationship between low hematocrit and high platelet count; however, anemia (i.e., low hemoglobin) can activate the hematopoietic system, leading to an increased capacity of the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. At the same time, white blood cells ...[Read More] Are Low Blood Volume and High Platelet Count Related?