Comprehensive Blood Tests for Multiple Health Concerns in Family Medicine
Blood test? Hello, doctor. I have some symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, hair loss, blurred vision, iritis, excessive sweating in the chest, and slow wound healing. I suspect that these may be related to anemia, diabetes, thyroid issues, or ankylosing spondylitis. If I visi...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit the Rheumatology or Family Medicine outpatient clinic for evaluation and follow-up by a physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Comprehensive Blood Tests for Multiple Health Concerns in Family Medicine
Does Iron Infusion Affect Blood Test Results for Anemia?
Regarding blood tests for iron supplements? Hello, Dr. Yeh. I usually have iron deficiency anemia, so I receive intravenous iron injections. If I have a blood test immediately after receiving the iron injection, will it affect the iron test results? I need the results for other t...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! In cases of iron deficiency anemia, the body's iron stores are significantly insufficient. When supplementing iron, serum ferritin is usually monitored to avoid issues related to excessive iron accumulation. A slightly elevated level right after iron supplementation i...[Read More] Does Iron Infusion Affect Blood Test Results for Anemia?
Improving Microcytic Anemia: Tips for Blood Donation Eligibility
Methods for Improving Microcytic Anemia Hello Doctor: To provide you with sufficient information for your assessment, I am sharing my recent blood test report. I have included the entire report, so it is a bit lengthy. Thank you for taking the time to review it. I have a habit of...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, it is suspected that you may have mild thalassemia. Since women experience monthly menstrual blood loss, if there is insufficient recovery time between blood donations, it can lead to situations that do not meet blood donation standar...[Read More] Improving Microcytic Anemia: Tips for Blood Donation Eligibility
Understanding Your Health Check Report: Key Lab Values Explained
Questions about health check-up reports? Hello Doctor: I recently had a basic blood test and have some questions regarding the results. Could you please help clarify and provide suggestions based on the following values? Should I visit a hospital for further evaluation? ⭕️ eGFR:...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: In your examination report, aside from elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, your glycated hemoglobin is also within the range of prediabetes. It is recommended that you maintain a healthy diet without overeating and engage in moderate exercise. A follow-up with yo...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: Key Lab Values Explained
Exploring Causes of Progressive Leg Weakness: A Guide for Patients
Weakness in the calf extending to the foot? Dear Dr. Yeh, My mother is 58 years old, 158 cm tall, and weighs 48 kg. She has had a long-standing issue with kyphosis and has undergone cardiovascular stenting. Her regular medication includes anticoagulants, and she drinks 150 cc of...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Clinical issues are often the result of multiple contributing factors. Based on the information you provided regarding the causes of intermittent claudication in your mother, here are some analytical suggestions: 1. X-ray shows bone spurs causing nerve compression: This i...[Read More] Exploring Causes of Progressive Leg Weakness: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Anemia: Differentiating Iron Deficiency from Thalassemia
Anemia issues Hello, doctor. I had a physical examination today, and my hemoglobin level is 12.7 g/dL, and my mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 68.5 fL, both of which are highlighted in red. The other results are in blue. I would like to know how to determine whether I have iron d...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The most accurate way to diagnose iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia is through a blood test. Additionally, you may inquire whether any family members also have a history of anemia. If you are concerned about bleeding, and considering you have gastrointestinal discomfo...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Differentiating Iron Deficiency from Thalassemia
Understanding Post-COVID Fatigue: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Generalized weakness and fatigue? Hello, doctor! I was diagnosed in June and isolated at home for seven days. After recovering, I returned to work normally, but about half a month later, I started to feel noticeably fatigued, dizzy, and generally unwell. (I had a platelet count o...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on the information you provided regarding your fatigue, several possibilities should be considered: 1. Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC): This may persist for 1-3 months, or even up to six months, but it should gradually improve. 2. Anemia: You have ...[Read More] Understanding Post-COVID Fatigue: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell and Eosinophil Counts: What to Do Next?
White blood cell-related issues..? Hello Dr. Lin, I previously consulted you regarding related issues, and I appreciate your response. ================== Below are the blood test results from March ================== WBC (White Blood Cells) Report: 16.47 (Reference Range: 3....
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: According to your test results, your white blood cell count and eosinophil levels have been elevated for some time, but there has been no continuous worsening of your condition. If you are not experiencing any significant discomfort, you may consider monitoring and observa...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell and Eosinophil Counts: What to Do Next?
Understanding Positive TP and Negative RPR in Blood Test Results
TP positive, RPR negative? Hello, I recently received a blood donation report indicating that my Treponema pallidum (TP) test is positive while the Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test is negative. I have not engaged in any sexual activity or have a history of syphilis, and I do not ha...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, Your blood donation report indicates that the TP (Treponema pallidum-specific serological tests, including TPPA and TPHA) is positive, while the RPR is negative. If you have no suspicious symptoms of syphilis and have not engaged in unsafe sexual practices, it is very li...[Read More] Understanding Positive TP and Negative RPR in Blood Test Results
Managing High Blood Pressure: Essential Questions for Your Family Doctor
Blood pressure issues? Hello Doctor: My uncle is in his 50s, standing 176 cm tall and weighing around 60-70 kg. Today, he visited a family medicine clinic due to neck pain (which he feels is similar to a stiff neck). The doctor measured his blood pressure, which was over 170, nea...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Hypertension can be managed by a primary care physician, unless it affects the kidneys or heart, in which case referral to a nephrologist or cardiologist may be considered. Additionally, tests related to hypertension typically include blood tests, urinalysis, electrocar...[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure: Essential Questions for Your Family Doctor
Your Questions Answered: Concerns About the Second Dose of AZ Vaccine
Consultation regarding the AZ vaccine? Hello, doctor. I am considering getting the second dose of the AZ vaccine, but I have a few concerns that I would like your help with: 1. I received my first dose of the AZ vaccine in September of last year, which means it has been nearly 1...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. If the interval between the two doses of the AZ vaccine exceeds the recommended time, it is usually not necessary to receive a booster dose. However, it is still advised to complete the vaccination as soon as possible to enhance and prolong immunity. Additionally, a s...[Read More] Your Questions Answered: Concerns About the Second Dose of AZ Vaccine
Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Vaccination and Symptoms After Confirmed COVID-19 Infection Hello Doctor, in mid-April of this year, after receiving the third dose of the Moderna vaccine, I occasionally experienced symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. After underg...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Sir: 1. Many hospitals have established integrated outpatient clinics for COVID-19 survivors; therefore, you can look for a nearby hospital that is suitable for your treatment to address your concerns. 2. Your description may indicate "autonomic nervous system dysfunc...[Read More] Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Anemia: When to Seek Specialized Medical Advice
Health check-up issues / Anemia / Inquiry about specialties Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing anemia since middle school. Sometimes, I feel a bit dizzy when I first get up, but I thought it was normal since I am a woman and lose a lot of blood during my monthly menstruation...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your age and the fact that you have heavier menstrual flow, along with the blood test results you provided, it is likely that you are experiencing iron deficiency anemia due to chronic blood loss from prolonged heavy menstruation. Here are two recommendations: 1. ...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: When to Seek Specialized Medical Advice
Can You Skip Blood Tests During a Health Checkup?
Is it possible to have a health check-up without a blood test? Hello, doctor: Recently, due to company requirements, I need to undergo a labor health examination. However, I have a fear of needles and have been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder by a psychiatrist for the...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: This part depends on the examination requirements set by your company. If it is just a general occupational health check-up, it typically includes blood tests, urinalysis, stool tests, chest X-rays, and electrocardiograms (ECGs), all of which are non-invasive procedures. A...[Read More] Can You Skip Blood Tests During a Health Checkup?
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Blood test issues? About two years ago, a medical examination revealed low white blood cell counts. However, in July of last year, all five types of white blood cells were normal. At that time, my family medicine doctor explained that some individuals naturally have lower white b...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: 1. Leukopenia refers to a decrease in the number of white blood cells in the blood; the most common form of leukopenia is neutropenia, while lymphopenia is less common. Common causes of leukopenia include aplastic anemia, megaloblastic anemia, autoimmune diseases,...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated amylase levels? Hello Dr. Lin, my younger brother recently received his health check-up report from work, and I have a few questions to ask you. He has a slight issue with being overweight (175 cm / 81 kg), with a BMI of 26.6, and an abdominal ultrasound showed mild to m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many reasons that can cause an elevation in amylase levels, usually related to intra-abdominal organs. Regarding your concern about pancreatitis, it is actually more specific to check lipase levels. I recommend that your brother visit a gastroenterology depart...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Eosinophils and Platelet Width Concerns
Blood Test Report Last month's health check report indicated that the eosinophil percentage was 0.5, with a normal range of 0.7, and the platelet width was abnormal at 18.7. I recall that last year's eosinophil percentage was also around this number. What could be the p...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you bring your health check-up report to the family medicine outpatient clinic for consultation and evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Eosinophils and Platelet Width Concerns
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count and Its Connection to Blood Sugar Levels
Elevated white blood cell count? Hello Doctor, I had a blood test two days ago and found that my white blood cell count is 14,930 (but I have no discomfort). What kind of inflammatory conditions could this value indicate? Additionally, my fasting blood glucose is 104. Is there a ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Cherry, In your letter, you mentioned that your blood test showed an elevated white blood cell count. An increase in white blood cell count can commonly be attributed to acute or chronic inflammation. When any organ or system in the body is significantly inflamed, it can t...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count and Its Connection to Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Prediabetes Symptoms: Key Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Symptoms of Prediabetes Last December, I visited a urologist due to symptoms of frequent urination and erectile dysfunction. At that time, my blood glucose level was 108 after fasting for 8 hours. The doctor prescribed medication for benign prostatic hyperplasia, which improved m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The typical initial symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, increased urination, increased appetite, and weight loss (in later stages). The acanthosis nigricans you mentioned is a possible but not common manifestation. As for slow wound healing and blurred vision, these...[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes Symptoms: Key Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Understanding High Phosphorus Levels and Kidney Echoes in Health Checkups
Health check-up issues Hello, I received my health check report this month, and it shows that my electrolyte test indicates elevated phosphorus levels. What does this mean, and how can I improve it? Additionally, my urine tests are normal, but the ultrasound results show a high e...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The causes of elevated electrolyte phosphorus levels are usually related to kidney disease and parathyroid disorders. You may want to refer to your health check report for any abnormalities in kidney function, urinalysis, and electrolyte calcium levels. If the phosphoru...[Read More] Understanding High Phosphorus Levels and Kidney Echoes in Health Checkups