Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?
Is it necessary to get the flu vaccine every year? Hello, Doctor: My boyfriend is 36 years old and works as an engineer in a tech company. The company offers a benefit where a limited number of employees can register each year for a free flu vaccine (Fluarix Tetra). He has been t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Vaccines do not work by using disease to combat disease; rather, they stimulate the body to develop immunity against pathogens, thereby reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe illness following infection. 2. The influenza vaccine has been administered for o...[Read More] Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?
Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?
Is it necessary to get the flu vaccine every year? Hello Doctor: My boyfriend is 36 years old and works as an engineer in a tech company. The company offers a benefit where employees can register for a limited number of free flu vaccinations (Fluarix Tetra) each year. He has been...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Vaccines do not work by using a "like cures like" approach; instead, they stimulate the body to develop immunity against pathogens, reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe illness following an infection. 2. The influenza vaccine has been administe...[Read More] Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?
Vaccine Concerns: Nail Growth Issues After COVID-19 Shots
Vaccine administration After receiving the first two doses of the AZ vaccine and the third dose of the BNT vaccine in January last year, I experienced interrupted nail growth on both big toes, followed by the appearance of Beau's lines. By November last year, the nails had n...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Generally, vaccination does not significantly affect nail growth or cause Beau's lines. It is advisable for you to seek medical evaluation to check for any infectious diseases, cardiovascular issues, malnutrition, or other conditions that may impact nail growth. If no...[Read More] Vaccine Concerns: Nail Growth Issues After COVID-19 Shots
Do I Need More COVID Vaccines After My Previous Doses?
Regarding the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask, I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BNT) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BNT) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know if I need to get v...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Due to the continuous mutations of the COVID-19 virus, new vaccines are being developed to address the emerging variants. Typically, these new vaccines are expected to provide better protection against the currently circulating strains of the COVID-19 virus compared to old...[Read More] Do I Need More COVID Vaccines After My Previous Doses?
How Long to Wait After COVID-19 to Get the Flu Vaccine?
Administering the influenza vaccine? Hello doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 in early August. If I want to receive the flu vaccine, is there a recommended waiting period? Thank you.
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! You can receive the vaccination as soon as your health condition improves, without any waiting period.[Read More] How Long to Wait After COVID-19 to Get the Flu Vaccine?
Understanding Persistent Fever: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
What could this possibly be, and which department should I visit? Started experiencing a fever around midnight on August 1st (ranging from 37.5 to 38 degrees Celsius). Throughout the day on August 1st, I took four doses of pain-relieving and fever-reducing medication (Bole) but t...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you visit a family medicine clinic.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Fever: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Post-Illness Fatigue in an 83-Year-Old with Heart Issues: What to Know
An 83-year-old mother has recovered from a cold but is experiencing generalized weakness. She has a history of hypertension and has undergone stent placement in her heart? Dear Dr. Tsai, Hello. My mother is 83 years old and has hypertension, with a stent placed in her heart. She...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: 1. Patients with heart failure may experience fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath while walking, and palpitations. If they also have cold sweats and pale complexion, it is essential to go to the emergency room (myocardial infarction). 2. Cold symptoms can also cause ...[Read More] Post-Illness Fatigue in an 83-Year-Old with Heart Issues: What to Know
Understanding Monkeypox Vaccine: Efficacy and Injection Methods Explained
Questions related to the monkeypox vaccine? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask two questions related to the monkeypox vaccine: 1. After receiving the vaccine, does it completely prevent infection, or does it significantly reduce the likelihood of infection (I've heard that...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! 1. "According to preliminary literature from abroad, high-risk contacts should receive vaccination within 14 days after the last exposure, with vaccine efficacy reaching approximately 80%. Vaccination within 4 days after the last exposure can achieve optimal preventiv...[Read More] Understanding Monkeypox Vaccine: Efficacy and Injection Methods Explained
Persistent Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: When to Seek Medical Help?
Persistent fever due to COVID-19? I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling unwell. This morning, I suddenly developed a fever. I had tested negative yesterday, so I thought it was just a common cold and went to see a doctor, where I received medication. However, when I got...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! COVID-19 fever may last approximately 3-4 days, and treatment is primarily symptomatic. If there are high-risk factors, please seek medical attention promptly for antiviral medication. Monitor your respiratory status, and if you experience wheezing or worsening symptoms, i...[Read More] Persistent Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: When to Seek Medical Help?
Understanding Sleep Issues and Physical Symptoms: A Family Medicine Perspective
Sleep and physical issues? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing sleep issues for over a month now. I either have light sleep or wake up in the middle of the night, and sometimes I am even aware while I am sleeping. Additionally, for the past two weeks, I have been having headac...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms include headache, insomnia, body heat and sweating, dizziness, and nausea. Given your age, you may be concerned about the following issues: 1. Infectious diseases: viruses (such as COVID-19, influenza), bacteria, etc. 2. Hormonal disorders: hyperthyroidism, d...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues and Physical Symptoms: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Post-Vaccine Injection Site Swelling: When to Seek Help
Swelling at the injection site one month after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. I received my fifth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, the BA4.5 Moderna next-generation vaccine, on March 10. After the vaccination, I experienced soreness, f...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The redness, swelling, and pain in your arm initially may be a "local injection site reaction" following the administration of the Moderna vaccine. This typically resolves gradually within a week. Based on your description, although the discomfort in your arm has...[Read More] Understanding Post-Vaccine Injection Site Swelling: When to Seek Help
Persistent Low-Grade Fever After COVID-19: Is It a Long-Term Effect?
Since being re-diagnosed at the end of January this year, my body temperature has remained elevated? Hello, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 for the second time at the end of January this year, and I tested negative three days later. However, my body temperature has been slightly el...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Mr. Chang: It is normal for body temperature to fluctuate after general activities. If your temperature is within the normal range in the morning and you do not have any discomfort, the likelihood of post-COVID syndrome is lower. I suggest you relax and develop a habit of e...[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever After COVID-19: Is It a Long-Term Effect?
Understanding Heartbeat Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Heart rate issues? Hello doctor, I have recently noticed that after concentrating on a task for a while, I often experience chest tightness, as if my heart is a bit weak and I feel like I'm lacking oxygen. My heart rate seems slower, but when measured, it's actually bet...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Although your increased heart rate is still within the normal range (60-100 bpm), the discomfort in your chest and the noticeable sensation of your heartbeat may raise concerns about potential arrhythmias. Indeed, after recovering from COVID-19, it is possible to experienc...[Read More] Understanding Heartbeat Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Fever Mimicking Cold Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Fever resembling a cold? Measure palm temperature every 1 to 3 hours, which ranges from 39.3 to 39.5 degrees Celsius; forehead temperature is between 37.3 and 37.9 degrees Celsius; temple temperature ranges from 37.2 to 38.4 degrees Celsius. Rapid test for COVID-19 is negative. R...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Yun: If you are experiencing persistent fever, headache, sore throat, runny nose, and cough, it is important to consider the possibility of infections from pathogens other than COVID-19 and influenza, as well as rare causes. Additionally, rapid testing for COVID-19 can y...[Read More] Fever Mimicking Cold Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Neck Stiffness and Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Stiffness and discomfort in the nape of the neck? Hello, Doctor. I am 27 years old and have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Last Saturday, after dinner, I clearly felt stiffness and discomfort in my neck, and it was difficult to turn my head from side to side...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort may be due to the following conditions: 1. Infection, most likely a viral infection 2. Allergies 3. Migraine. It is recommended that you first perform a COVID-19 rapid test. Additionally, if you have any over-the-counter medications for symptom relief (such...[Read More] Understanding Neck Stiffness and Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Understanding Abnormal Lymphocyte Levels and COVID-19 Symptoms
Abnormal lymphocyte count? On January 25, I went to the emergency room due to dizziness, and my blood pressure spiked to 220. The doctor also ordered blood tests, which showed lymphocytes at 11.7, neutrophils at 84.9, and eosinophils at 0.4. Two days later, I was diagnosed with C...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the results of the white blood cell classification at that time likely indicated a state caused by acute infection or inflammation. After all, the results of a complete blood count are dynamic. If you continue to feel unwell, it is advisable to return to your original trea...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Lymphocyte Levels and COVID-19 Symptoms
Accidental Ingestion of Cooling Spray: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Accidental ingestion of cooling spray? I woke up at 7:30 AM with a bit of a scratchy throat. I usually spray some propolis, but instead, I grabbed the Thai Snake Brand cooling spray and used it four times. Afterward, I rinsed my mouth to remove any residue and drank a large amoun...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The main ingredients of cooling sprays are water, alcohol, and plant-based essential oils (such as menthol). Ingesting these substances should not cause symptoms like fever, muscle pain, or dizziness. Your discomfort may not be related to the accidental ingestion of the co...[Read More] Accidental Ingestion of Cooling Spray: When to Seek Medical Attention?
How Long Should You Wait Between Tetanus and COVID Vaccines?
How long should vaccines be spaced apart? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the interval between receiving the tetanus vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine. I've seen information online suggesting a 7-day interval as well as a 14-day interval, which has caused me some conc...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The latest information on COVID-19 vaccines announced by the Ministry of Health and Welfare is as follows: COVID-19 vaccines can be administered simultaneously with other vaccines in different arms, or they can be given at any interval. Therefore, you can receive the COVID...[Read More] How Long Should You Wait Between Tetanus and COVID Vaccines?
Understanding Low Body Temperature: Causes and Management for Chronic Conditions
Recently, I have noticed that my body temperature is abnormally low, at 34.7 degrees Celsius? Hello, doctor. I have a history of diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease for 32 years. My hemoglobin A1c was 6.6 in December last year. I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis in Jul...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your issue of having a low body temperature may be related to hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, hypoglycemia, nutritional deficiencies, neuromuscular diseases, infections, and so on. Additionally, the frequent cramping you experience may be associated with electrolyte...[Read More] Understanding Low Body Temperature: Causes and Management for Chronic Conditions
Should You Get Checked for Shortness of Breath After COVID?
Is it necessary to undergo further examination for easy shortness of breath? Symptoms: Since my diagnosis last May, I have noticed that I easily become short of breath, such as when climbing stairs or talking, and sometimes I feel the need to take a deep breath even when I am not...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Hao: There are many causes of dyspnea; common causes include heart, lung, kidney diseases, or various metabolic disorders; of course, there are also many rare causes. If you have been experiencing these symptoms for six months, regardless of whether you have had COVID-19...[Read More] Should You Get Checked for Shortness of Breath After COVID?