Morning Upper Back Pain and Breathing Issues: What to Do?
Daily morning back pain and difficulty breathing? Approximately since the end of June last year (2020), I have been waking up every morning due to upper back pain. I changed my bed, but there was not much improvement. Last year, I consulted an orthopedic specialist and had X-rays...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: The information in your letter does not provide enough insight into the cause of your pain. It is important to consider your daily habits and posture to determine if they are related to your discomfort, so that preventive measures can be taken. Musculoskeletal symptoms cur...[Read More] Morning Upper Back Pain and Breathing Issues: What to Do?
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Mild pain in the center of the chest? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the lengthy message. About 4 to 5 days ago, I experienced occasional mild pain in the center of my chest that lasted only 1 to 2 seconds. After a few days, it seemed to go away, but last night and today, the pai...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chest pain can resolve on its own. It is recommended that you engage in chest-expanding exercises, starting with small ranges and short durations, and gradually increasing both the range and duration. If you are concerned, you may choose to h...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Understanding Rapid Cholesterol Fluctuations: Key Questions Answered
Cholesterol levels can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time? Hello Doctor: On February 18th of this year, my blood test showed a total cholesterol level of 193 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol of 128 mg/dL. On March 5th, my total cholesterol level ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, blood tracking should be determined based on clinical evaluation. It is advisable to consult the physician who provided the medical advice to understand your condition, which will serve as a basis for whether treatment is necessary. Test results are an immediate response r...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Cholesterol Fluctuations: Key Questions Answered
Choosing the Right Specialist: Immunology, Infectious Disease, or Hematology?
Medical specialties Hello, Director. I would like to ask which department I should consult for the following situation: A few years ago, I was hospitalized for 9 days due to a high fever. Blood tests and multiple examinations were conducted, but ultimately it was concluded as an ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for further evaluation. Of course, recurrent infection issues should be appropriately treated. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hosp...[Read More] Choosing the Right Specialist: Immunology, Infectious Disease, or Hematology?
Understanding Low RDW Levels: Implications for Your Health
Blood disorders Hello doctor, I recently had a complete blood count, and the results showed Hb 16.2, MCH 30.3, MCHC 34.5, MCV 87.8, RBC 5.34, WBC 6. However, the only abnormal result was RDW at 11.3, which is low. Could you please explain what disease this might indicate? Will it...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, RDW (red cell distribution width) is an indicator that measures the variation in red blood cell volume. A high RDW indicates that there is a significant difference in the size of the red blood cells. The data presented in the report shows no obvious abnormalities; however,...[Read More] Understanding Low RDW Levels: Implications for Your Health
Struggling with Appetite and Health: Tips for Improvement
Poor appetite and physical condition? I often have trouble eating breakfast and lunch, which makes social gatherings stressful for me as I can't eat and often face ridicule from others. This increases my psychological pressure, making it even harder to eat. Additionally, I f...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, maintaining a regular lifestyle and exercise routine is the most fundamental advice. You can start by adjusting your daily schedule and developing consistent habits to see if there is any improvement. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and ...[Read More] Struggling with Appetite and Health: Tips for Improvement
Are Needle-Free Vaccination Options Available in Taiwan Hospitals?
Are there hospitals in the country that use needle-free injectors (jet injectors) for vaccinations? I need to receive the yellow fever vaccine for work purposes. As far as I know, insulin jet injectors (needle-free injectors) are widely used, and theoretically, yellow fever and m...
Dr. Huang Hongshuo Reply:
Current data indicates that the use of needle-free injectors for vaccination is limited to the influenza vaccine. The yellow fever vaccine continues to be administered using traditional injection methods.[Read More] Are Needle-Free Vaccination Options Available in Taiwan Hospitals?
Understanding Low Lymphocyte Levels: Causes and Health Implications
Low lymphocyte count? Doctor, I have had three blood tests in the past two years, and my lymphocyte counts were 19.9, 19.6, and 19.2 (with a normal range of 20-45). What does a low count indicate? What diseases could potentially cause this? What should I pay attention to regardin...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: A low lymphocyte count does not necessarily require treatment. However, it is important to pay attention to whether the neutrophil percentage is elevated in the current test report, as this information was not provided. Additionally, the various classifications of white bl...[Read More] Understanding Low Lymphocyte Levels: Causes and Health Implications
Understanding Fluctuating Blood Pressure: When to See a Doctor
Occasional hypertension? Hello doctor, I have recently developed a habit of measuring my blood pressure due to feelings of chest tightness. Sometimes my first reading is around 130/82, but if I measure again after three to five minutes, it tends to be within the normal range of 1...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Without your height, weight, BMI, and blood test results, it is difficult to make a comprehensive assessment. However, based on the blood pressure values you provided, there is currently no need for medical attention. Nonetheless, a light diet, regular exercise, and weight...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuating Blood Pressure: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: When to Seek Further Testing
LY lymphoid ball I have been monitoring my blood every three months and have found that my lymphocyte count has been consistently elevated, exceeding the standard range of 20-45 with a result of 48.5 for two consecutive tests (over six months). Should I seek further evaluation?
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: The letter did not mention why blood tests need to be conducted every three months and what specific items are being monitored. Generally, it is not necessary for the average person to have their lymphocyte levels checked every three months; however, it is possible that yo...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Abdominal Issues: When to Worry and When to Relax
Abdominal issues? Hello Dr. Wu, this is 163016 following up. The previous CT scan of the small intestine was due to a positive fecal occult blood test. After undergoing a gastroscopy, no obvious bleeding points were found, so my attending physician recommended a CT scan of the sm...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Fecal occult blood is generally first considered in relation to colorectal diseases or gastric and duodenal disorders, with less association to small intestine issues. Since you have already undergone a CT scan with no problems, you may consider undergoing a colonoscopy an...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Issues: When to Worry and When to Relax
Understanding Blood Test Results After Surgery: What Do They Mean?
Inquiry about blood test report results? I underwent a small intestine surgery, and the doctor ordered a blood test for me. The results for liver, kidney, and white blood cell counts were all within normal ranges. However, my red blood cell and hemoglobin levels did not meet the ...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Your values may indicate thalassemia, but further testing with hemoglobin electrophoresis is needed for confirmation. Your results are not significantly related to sleep deprivation.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results After Surgery: What Do They Mean?
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Numbers Really Mean
Blood test report examination? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I am currently studying abroad, and my school recently required me to undergo a health check locally. I visited the hospital last week and returned today to review my report. My lab results show: Hb 16.0, Ht 45.6, RBC 5.20, WBC 4....
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Hs: 1. All examinations or tests, including Complete Blood Counts (CBC), must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms. Clinical teaching focuses on critical thinking, utilizing clinical symptoms, chief complaints, physical examinations, laboratory data, and...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Numbers Really Mean
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do Low Neutrophils and High Lymphocytes Mean?
Blood test report inquiry? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about a few items in my blood test report. WBC 4.43, neutrophils 27 (low), lymphocytes 57 (high), A. lymph 3. I would like to know what the general causes of these results might be. I recently had a cold; could that...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
If you do not have a fever, cough, swollen neck lymph nodes, or abnormal sexual behavior, then you do not need to worry about these values for now. Respiratory infections can also cause elevated lymphocyte counts and decreased segmented neutrophils. Certain infections, such as th...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do Low Neutrophils and High Lymphocytes Mean?
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What They Mean for Your Health
Health examination report issues? Hello Doctor: Recently, the employee health check report was released, and there were some red flags in the report. I would like to inquire about the possible issues related to the following items/test values/units/reference: - Epith. (Sediment)...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, the urine test needs to be rechecked. Please return for a follow-up appointment one week after your menstrual period ends, and collect a midstream urine sample for testing, as this will minimize the impact on the results. Regarding the blood test...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What They Mean for Your Health
Understanding Cholesterol and Liver Enzymes: Risks and Recommendations
Cholesterol issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, about a year ago, I had blood tests done at the family medicine department of the hospital and found that my ALT liver enzyme levels were around 40-60, and my cholesterol levels were 217, 207, and 224. During my last school health check, my li...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Cc: 1. If total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels are elevated over the long term, the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, and peripheral artery diseases increases. Clinical management primarily involves lifestyle mo...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol and Liver Enzymes: Risks and Recommendations
Understanding Pain and Swelling in the Lower Jaw Area
Swelling and pain in the area of the mandible and cheekbone? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing pain in my lower right jaw (the area below my cheekbone feels like there is a rounded prominence when touched). Additionally, the right side feels more prominent compared to the le...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen: Regarding the lesion in the right mandible, possible causes may include folliculitis, sebaceous gland inflammation, cellulitis, lymphadenitis, mandibular hyperplasia or dysplastic changes, lymphatic tuberculosis, metastatic cancer in the head and neck, lymphoma, am...[Read More] Understanding Pain and Swelling in the Lower Jaw Area
CT Scan with Non-Ionic Contrast: Diabetes and Medication Considerations
Non-ionic contrast agent for brain CT (computed tomography)? CT scan of the brain: I have had diabetes for 8 years, and my recent blood tests show normal kidney function. Below are the medications I am taking: Metabolism specialist: Metformin HCl 850 mg, Lyrica (pregabalin) 75 ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Here are the answers to your questions: Question 1: The medication that needs to be discontinued is "Metformin HCl 850mg." The discontinuation period is the day of the CT scan and the two days before and after, totaling five days. For example, if the CT scan is...[Read More] CT Scan with Non-Ionic Contrast: Diabetes and Medication Considerations
Understanding Unexplained Upper Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Unknown back pain Hello, I am a 29-year-old male, 178 cm tall, and weighing 62 kg. About two weeks ago, I noticed that I experience pain in the upper middle part of my back when I take a deep breath, but there is no discomfort during normal breathing. Additionally, I feel pain in...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Based on your symptoms, it appears to be primarily a neuromuscular issue. The lungs do not have sensory nerves, so if there is pain, it is usually related to the surrounding thoracic structures. If you also experience symptoms such as cough, fever, or chills, it is more likely to...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Upper Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Loss of Appetite and Weight: What Tests Should You Consider?
In the past three weeks, there has been a loss of appetite, and weight has decreased by nearly 5 kilograms. What tests should be conducted? Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, and over the past three weeks, I have lost nearly 5 kilograms. I'm unsure i...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description of decreased appetite and weight loss over the past three weeks, it is recommended that you bring your previous examination reports and visit a family medicine outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Loss of Appetite and Weight: What Tests Should You Consider?