Understanding Anemia: Blood Test Results and PPI Impact on Iron Absorption
Anemia issues Hello, Doctor. This is my blood test report for this year: RBC 4.93 [4.26–5.56], Hb 12.9 [13.5–17.5], Hct 39.3 [40–49], MCV 79.7 [80–100], MCH 26.2 [26–34], MCHC 32.8 [31–37], RDW 13.2 [11.5–14.5]. Does this indicate anemia? This is my report from June of last year:...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your blood test report indicates microcytic anemia, with the more common causes being thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. Since your previous blood test did not show any signs of anemia, it is more likely to be iron deficiency anemia. The causes of iron deficiency anem...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Blood Test Results and PPI Impact on Iron Absorption
Understanding Elevated Red Blood Cells and Platelets: Causes and Solutions
Blood report Hello Doctor: Recently, I received my blood test results: W.B.C 5360/µL (normal), R.B.C 554 x 10^4/µL (slightly elevated), Hb 15.6 g/dL (normal), Ht 47.1% (normal), MCV 85 fL (normal), MCH 28.2 pg (normal), MCHC 33.1 g/dL (normal), Platelet 402,000/µL (slightly eleva...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based solely on the numbers, there may not be significant abnormalities. However, a comprehensive evaluation of the related systems is necessary to reach a complete conclusion. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnosti...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Red Blood Cells and Platelets: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Diabetes: Key Questions on Symptoms and Treatment
Some questions regarding diabetes? Hello, doctor. I am a university student majoring in biomedical sciences, and I am currently working on a paper discussion topic. My report is about the use of Ephedra to treat hyperglycemia and oxidative stress caused by diabetes. Initially, I ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, university student: If you are currently experiencing any symptoms of diabetes, the best solution is to visit a hospital for testing, as you may receive results on the same day. Streptozotocin is used in medical research to establish animal models for Type 1 diabetes, whil...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Key Questions on Symptoms and Treatment
Understanding Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides: What Your Results Mean
Total cholesterol and triglyceride issues? Hello doctor, I recently had a blood test and my total cholesterol was 257, triglycerides were 38, visceral fat rate was 3, body fat percentage was 16, height is 163 cm, and weight is 50 kg. Is my total cholesterol level a concern?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Qoo: Your BMI is 18.8, and your body fat percentage is 16, which are within the normal range. However, your triglycerides are low at 38, and your visceral fat level is also low at 3, while your total cholesterol is elevated at 257. Cholesterol in the blood comes from di...[Read More] Understanding Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides: What Your Results Mean
Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: What You Need to Know
Elevated lymphocyte count? Hello, doctor! On January 8th of this year, I had a routine blood test at the clinic, and the results showed: neutrophils at 33.5%, lymphocytes at 55%, and monocytes at 9.6%. Due to the abnormal results, I underwent another test on April 8th, and the re...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, the proportion of lymphocytes is elevated. Treatment should be aligned with your clinical symptoms. Generally, the subtypes of white blood cells maintain a dynamic balance. If there are any concerns, you may follow up at a medical fac...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: What You Need to Know
Needle Stick Injury: Risk of Infection from Blood Glucose Testing
Needle stick injury Hello, doctor: My mom accidentally got pricked by a needle while measuring my dad's blood sugar. Since my dad has hepatitis B, he immediately squeezed out the blood. Is there a risk of infection in this situation?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Although the amount of blood remaining on the needle should be minimal, there is still a risk of hepatitis B infection. It is advisable to take your parents to the doctor for blood tests as soon as possible.[Read More] Needle Stick Injury: Risk of Infection from Blood Glucose Testing
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know
Blood disorders Hello, Doctor: Last week, I visited the hospital due to feeling unwell, and the doctor conducted a blood test. The report is as follows: Lymphocyte 22% [19][48], MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) 31.4 g/dL [33][37], MCH 29.0 pg [27][31], MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hem...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your blood test report, although the RBC is low, the Hemoglobin is within the normal range, so the anemia is likely not severe. Further analysis of the low MCH and low MCHC suggests that it may be microcytic anemia, with the most common cause being iron deficiency...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know
Can You Still Test for COVID-19 N Protein Antibodies in Taiwan?
I want to confirm whether I have had COVID-19, but can the SARS-CoV-2 N protein antibodies still be tested in Taiwan? Hello, doctor! I understand that testing for "COVID-19 N protein antibodies" can help determine if I have been infected with COVID-19 in the past few mo...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to inquire at a nearby medical center to see if they offer blood tests for COVID-19 antibodies.[Read More] Can You Still Test for COVID-19 N Protein Antibodies in Taiwan?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Impact of Fasting on Diabetes Diagnosis
Please ask your questions regarding blood tests? Hello, doctor. Last November (2023), I experienced some health issues. Starting around June 2023, I noticed increased appetite, thirst, and urination, but my weight did not decrease. I went to the hospital for a consultation and ha...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang: 1. Your questions should be discussed with your primary care physician, as there are many factors that need to be considered. 2. According to the American Diabetes Association's diagnostic criteria for diabetes: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL af...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Impact of Fasting on Diabetes Diagnosis
Why Do I Feel Dizzy and Lightheaded After Blood Tests?
After drawing blood, my vision goes completely white? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if the dizziness and temporary whiteout I experience for about 15 to 20 minutes after each blood draw during my health check-up is a case of vasovagal syncope?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The situation you described is indeed very likely to be a case of vasovagal syncope. Additionally, it is important to consider other issues such as cardiovascular diseases, blood sugar abnormalities, blood pressure irregularities, anemia, and anxiety. If dizziness occurs f...[Read More] Why Do I Feel Dizzy and Lightheaded After Blood Tests?
Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Key Questions for Your Family Doctor
Please provide your questions regarding diabetes? I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia last November. At that time, my lab results were as follows: fasting blood glucose 143 mg/dL, HbA1c 9.9%, total cholesterol 229 mg/dL, triglycerides 202 mg/dL, HDL cholestero...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Chang: According to the consensus of international diabetes associations, a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of less than 6.5% for at least 3 months without the use of antihyperglycemic medications indicates that blood sugar is temporarily normal, and medication may no...[Read More] Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Key Questions for Your Family Doctor
Left Side Abdominal Pain After Eating: Possible Causes and Solutions
Pain on the left lateral side of the waist after eating? Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to answer my question despite your busy schedule. Sometimes after eating, especially when I feel "full," I experience a dull, intermittent pain on the outer side of my l...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, please have a gastroenterologist assess whether it is related to gastrointestinal activity. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Left Side Abdominal Pain After Eating: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Issues After Night Shifts
Chest tightness and difficulty breathing? After working rotating shifts, including both day and night shifts, for about seven years, and having a smoking habit while drinking a cup of American coffee daily, I recently started experiencing episodes of rapid heartbeat, shortness of...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Huang: 1. The human body has its own physiological clock and circadian rhythms that are inherently aligned with nature. Therefore, long-term night shifts or rotating shifts can have various impacts on sleep, the neuroendocrine system, cardiovascular system, digestive sy...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Issues After Night Shifts
Unexplained Symptoms: Navigating Complex Health Issues in Family Medicine
Unknown etiology? My normal body temperature ranges from 36.4 to 37.3 degrees Celsius. I have a history of fatty liver disease, and my mother and her relatives have issues related to hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and gastrointestinal problems. My father's side has a history ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Lseedead: 1. Since you have been hospitalized and undergone many tests that all returned normal results, I believe that given your age, there shouldn't be any significant issues. 2. The pulmonologist and infectious disease specialist have reviewed your imaging and ...[Read More] Unexplained Symptoms: Navigating Complex Health Issues in Family Medicine
Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Is One Test Enough?
Diabetes Diagnosis Issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. Recently, I was diagnosed with high blood sugar during a health check-up. On November 9th, I went to the hospital for a blood test and found that my fasting blood glucose level was 142 mg/dL, and my hemoglob...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c. HbA...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Is One Test Enough?
Understanding Elevated Homocysteine Levels and Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular examination and homocysteine levels? Dear Doctor, in my blood test report, there is an item: cardiovascular examination with homocysteine level at 17.53 (reference range 5.9–16 umol/L). This value exceeds the reference range. What should I be aware of, or which dep...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! If there are kidney diseases, medication-related issues, alcohol abuse, or a deficiency of sufficient vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate in the diet, the level of homocysteine in the blood may increase. If only one of these is elevated, it is recommended to supplement wit...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Homocysteine Levels and Cardiovascular Health
Understanding Discrepancies in Blood Test Results for Cancer Patients
Questions about blood test results? Hello Doctor: I am a cancer patient and frequently undergo blood tests due to my treatment. The medical center currently schedules follow-up appointments every three months, but I also pay out of pocket for regular blood tests at a local clinic...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! White blood cells can be further classified into five types: neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. Therefore, the total count can indeed vary, and the interpretation of the report is quite important. It usually requires a series of values in conj...[Read More] Understanding Discrepancies in Blood Test Results for Cancer Patients
Understanding Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia in Blood Tests
Anemia issues Hello, Doctor. Here are my routine blood test results from my health check-up. I would like to ask whether I have iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. Additionally, if it is iron deficiency anemia, would you recommend intravenous iron supplementation? Would there ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, it is indeed possible that you have iron deficiency anemia. Supplementing with iron is not an issue; however, iron injections may raise concerns about allergic reactions. Given your recent test results, oral supplementation should suf...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia in Blood Tests
Understanding B12 Deficiency Testing: Key Considerations and Recommendations
Testing for Vitamin B12 Deficiency Hello Doctor: My sisters and I have Mediterranean anemia, and one of them has been a patient with SLE for over twenty years. Some of us have started to experience symptoms and have been informed that there may be a possibility of B12 deficiency....
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Vitamin B12 is related to the metabolism of homocysteine, and these two values are usually assessed together. It is recommended to visit a family medicine clinic for evaluation by a physician, who can arrange further medical services based on the test results. Please note that th...[Read More] Understanding B12 Deficiency Testing: Key Considerations and Recommendations
Conflicting Diabetes Advice: Who Should You Trust for Your Health?
I'm not sure whose advice to follow? Previously, I visited a nearby major hospital's endocrinology department due to thyroid issues. The doctor conducted blood tests and a urinalysis, and while my thyroid function was normal, my hemoglobin A1c was 6.5%. However, my fast...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Lisa, Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is formed by the binding of glucose to hemoglobin in the blood. The average lifespan of red blood cells is 120 days, so glycated hemoglobin reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past three months. Daily fluctuations in blood ...[Read More] Conflicting Diabetes Advice: Who Should You Trust for Your Health?