Unsure Which Specialist to See for Unexplained Symptoms?
I'm not sure which specialty to consult or what tests to undergo? Hello, doctor. My diet is generally normal; I usually have three meals a day, although I occasionally skip breakfast on weekends. My weight is within the standard range (160 cm / 49 kg), but I appear "thi...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
It seems that the symptoms cannot rule out irritable bowel syndrome or functional gastrointestinal disorders; it would be advisable to consult a gastroenterologist first.[Read More] Unsure Which Specialist to See for Unexplained Symptoms?
Is Your Temperature Fluctuation Normal? Understanding Fever and Health Concerns
Is this fluctuation in body temperature normal? Hello Doctor: Since October of last year, due to work fatigue, emotional stress, and irregular eating and sleeping habits, I have experienced difficulty sleeping for over two weeks, frequent diarrhea, and later developed gastroesoph...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. Human body temperature is generally stable, but it does fluctuate slightly throughout the day due to physiological activities of the muscles and liver. Body temperature gradually rises after waking up in the morning, peaks in the afternoon...[Read More] Is Your Temperature Fluctuation Normal? Understanding Fever and Health Concerns
Frequent Colds: Is Your Immune System Declining?
I have been catching colds frequently lately? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing frequent colds over the past six months, sometimes getting sick twice a month and at other times once every two months. Is this a sign that my immune system is weakening, or could there be other ...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan Reply:
If you are experiencing more frequent colds, it is important to pay attention to this. Please schedule an appointment with an infectious disease specialist for an examination, especially during cold episodes. Additionally, avoid excessive fatigue, ensure adequate sleep, engage in...[Read More] Frequent Colds: Is Your Immune System Declining?
Steroid-Induced Obesity: Exploring Weight Loss Surgery Options
Obesity caused by steroid use and seeking gastric bypass surgery for weight loss? I mistakenly consumed a compounded pain medication from the pharmacy, thinking it was a regular analgesic, for four years. I took it for various types of pain, including toothaches, menstrual cramps...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, please visit the Metabolism Clinic for further evaluation after your appointment.[Read More] Steroid-Induced Obesity: Exploring Weight Loss Surgery Options
Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a slight bloating and pain in the lower abdomen? Hello Doctor: I am 156 cm tall and weigh 63 kg, which I believe is related to obesity. I often feel very tired and drowsy. Since gaining weight, I have frequently experienced dizziness and suspect that I might have fatty l...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: Your letter mentions several issues, including easy fatigue and drowsiness, dizziness, changes in bowel habits, and lower abdominal cramping. Since each individual's constitution is different, the causes of these symptoms can be quite diverse. It is recommended that y...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Cholesterol Levels: Insights for Patients with Hyperthyroidism
About cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I am currently undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism and am in the medication reduction phase. My physical condition has mostly returned to normal. However, due to the medication, I have gained about two to three kilograms compared to before t...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, In your letter, you mentioned the issue of elevated total cholesterol and triglycerides. The normal total cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL, and triglycerides should be below 150 mg/dL. While your levels are indeed elevated, it is important to also consider high-densi...[Read More] Managing Cholesterol Levels: Insights for Patients with Hyperthyroidism
Understanding Mild Proteinuria: Causes and Health Implications
Mild proteinuria Hello doctor, I usually consume high-protein drinks, and recently when I went to the hospital for a urine test, the doctor mentioned that I have mild proteinuria. Will this cause any health issues? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Student Chen, The glomeruli in the human body function like a sieve. Under normal circumstances, most proteins do not pass through when blood flows through them. However, factors such as exercise and stress can cause some proteins to leak through, and consuming excessive am...[Read More] Understanding Mild Proteinuria: Causes and Health Implications
Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings and High Cholesterol Levels
Unable to measure blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels? Yesterday, I went to donate blood, but they couldn't measure my blood pressure twice. I've had similar situations once or twice before. The nurse said it was due to low blood pressure, but when I measure ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Wu, Regarding your inquiry about the inability to measure blood pressure, there are several external factors or issues with the equipment that can contribute to this problem. For instance, a small-sized subject using an inappropriate cuff, wearing clothing that is too t...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings and High Cholesterol Levels
Addressing Memory Loss, Insomnia, and Depression in Seniors
Insomnia, memory decline, slowed walking, depression? Hello, my mother is 69 years old and has recently started experiencing severe memory decline symptoms, along with insomnia and significantly slowed walking. Last year, she had an episode of involuntary twitching at the corner ...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, based on the symptoms mentioned by the internet user regarding their mother, it is recommended to first consult a neurologist to rule out conditions such as Parkinson's disease or early-stage dementia. Late-life depression is also a frequ...[Read More] Addressing Memory Loss, Insomnia, and Depression in Seniors
Managing Diabetes and Diet: Tips for Seniors with Health Concerns
Diabetic pain issues? 1. For a 70-year-old diabetic patient with mild stroke symptoms (due to age and medication-related vascular blockage), elevated uric acid levels, and compromised kidney function, dietary management is crucial. It is recommended to follow a balanced diet that...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, dietary and health issues vary from person to person, so it is advisable for you to seek further medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.[Read More] Managing Diabetes and Diet: Tips for Seniors with Health Concerns
Overwhelming Fatigue at Night: Causes and Solutions
Feeling constantly fatigued? I have been feeling very strange for the past six months. Every night, I feel particularly fatigued and have an overwhelming desire to sleep, to the point where it feels like I would die if I don't sleep. How can I improve this condition?
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of abnormal fatigue. In addition to physical factors, the impact of stress is often overlooked. Furthermore, long-term sleep disturbances can also lead to feelings of exhaustion. In addition to seeking a thorough evaluati...[Read More] Overwhelming Fatigue at Night: Causes and Solutions
Effective Strategies to Reduce Belly Fat: Expert Tips
How to effectively lose belly fat? Hello Dr. Tsai, I noticed in the mirror over the past few days that the area below my navel is protruding. Is this what is referred to as the lower abdomen? How can I slim it down? I often eat until I'm full and sit in front of the computer...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. JJ, Each individual's accumulation of body fat varies. If you notice that your lower abdomen is protruding due to fat, please be cautious about the issue of central obesity. The standards for central obesity in Taiwan are a waist circumference of greater than 80 cm...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Reduce Belly Fat: Expert Tips
Understanding Peripheral Circulation Disorders: Symptoms and Supplements
Peripheral circulatory disorder Doctor, I would like to ask if peripheral circulation disorders refer to easy numbness in the limbs or poor blood circulation? A friend gave me a bottle of dietary supplement that states it is indicated for peripheral circulation disorders. I would...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Miss Jenny, Regarding peripheral circulatory disorders, there is no clear definition in the medical field. Generally, physicians may prescribe medications that improve peripheral circulation when patients report symptoms such as numbness in the limbs or dizziness, suspectin...[Read More] Understanding Peripheral Circulation Disorders: Symptoms and Supplements
Hair Loss and Baldness: Exploring Causes and Dietary Impact
Hair loss, baldness? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have noticed a gradual increase in the height of the left side of my forehead over the past few months. I once heard on a medical television program (it seemed to be traditional Chinese medicine) that poor kidney function might lead...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello: Common causes of hair loss in your age group include androgenetic alopecia, scalp infections, or hair loss due to thyroid abnormalities. Therefore, it is advisable for you to consult a dermatologist first. As for the Traditional Chinese Medicine issue you mentioned, I reco...[Read More] Hair Loss and Baldness: Exploring Causes and Dietary Impact
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Family Health
Diabetic constitution? Hello: My girlfriend's mother gave birth to her around the age of 31 and was diagnosed with diabetes around the age of 34. She had gestational diabetes during her pregnancy with her younger brother, who is now about 20 years old and has been confirmed ...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, first I will address your questions regarding the first, second, and fourth issues. For most diabetes patients, diabetes can be considered a disease caused by a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences, particularly in the case of type 2 diabetes. Theref...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Family Health
Understanding Early Gray Hair: Causes and When to Seek Help
White hair Hello Doctor: I am 25 years old, and I would like to ask about my premature graying hair. Based on previous experiences, it is often caused by excessive stress. However, my recent lifestyle has been quite normal, and my job is stable and manageable. Yet, I have recentl...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Athena, Regarding your questions, I will address them in two parts. The presence of white hair is primarily due to a decrease in melanin within the hair follicles as a result of aging. However, there are various other causes of premature graying that are associated with...[Read More] Understanding Early Gray Hair: Causes and When to Seek Help
Preventing Diseases Through Diet: The Truth About Juices and Supplements
Disease Prevention and Diet Hello, doctor: Some medical literature suggests that regularly consuming fruit and vegetable juices can help prevent diseases and cancer. The commercially available canned fruit and vegetable juices taste sweet; do they really produce many enzymes in t...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Kevin, Regarding your question, it is indeed difficult to provide a complete answer, but understanding some principles may make it easier. The benefits of fruits and vegetables extend beyond their richness in certain vitamins and beneficial components such as potassium ...[Read More] Preventing Diseases Through Diet: The Truth About Juices and Supplements
Post-Car Accident Recovery: Best Foods and Nutrition Tips
Nutritional Recovery After a Car Accident I'm sorry to hear about your friend's accident. For someone recovering from injuries, it's important to focus on a balanced diet that supports healing. Here are some recommendations: 1. **Protein-rich foods**: Foods like l...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: After an injury from a car accident, in addition to external injuries, it is advisable to monitor for signs of a concussion, such as blurred vision, drowsiness, unsteady gait, and severe vomiting. There are no specific nutritional concerns to pay attention to, but it is po...[Read More] Post-Car Accident Recovery: Best Foods and Nutrition Tips
Essential Health Supplements for College Students: A Comprehensive Guide
Regarding suitable health foods for students? Hello Dr. Tsai: I have some questions regarding health supplements. I am a 19-year-old female student, and I would like to know about the necessity of taking health supplements. As a student living away from home, it can be quite chal...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Miss Ting-Ting, Hello. Regarding your question, I would like to address it from several aspects. The necessity of dietary supplements is a common concern; however, there is very little clear evidence in the medical field to support the benefits of supplementation in the abs...[Read More] Essential Health Supplements for College Students: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Health Risks of Prebiotics: Concerns About Xylooligosaccharides
Consultation 1. I saw a health product related to constipation on television—mucilage oligosaccharides. However, its inspection report from the Food Industry Development and Research Institute shows a lead content of 0.08 ppm. Is this acceptable, or should it not be present at al...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Yu, Regarding your question, it can be discussed from two aspects: 1. Is the presence of lead in health supplements acceptable? In my research, it appears that there are currently no clear regulations regarding the lead content in health supplements in Taiwan. However,...[Read More] Understanding Health Risks of Prebiotics: Concerns About Xylooligosaccharides