Understanding Frequent Mouth Sores: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Recently, I have been experiencing frequent sores on the inside of my mouth and lips? Hello, doctor. For the past week or two, I've frequently had sores in my mouth that feel like they've been bitten. One sore hasn't healed yet, and another one has appeared. My fam...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Mouth ulcers can be a troublesome issue, and several factors may be related to their occurrence, such as sleep, emotional state, gastrointestinal digestion, and nutritional imbalances. Viral infections can also be a possible cause, and in rare cases, it may be related to immune s...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Mouth Sores: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Boosting MCV and Hemoglobin Levels
Iron deficiency anemia During my last physical examination at the military academy, I was disqualified due to low MCV and hemoglobin levels. My values were MCV 75.4 and hemoglobin 11.3. The guidelines state that MCV must be above 80 and hemoglobin must be at least 12. Previously,...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing, Director of the Family Medicine Department at Tainan Hospital, Executive Yuan Health Department: Maintaining a balanced diet, adhering to a regular lifestyle, and engaging in regular exercise may seem like common advice, but when followed to a significan...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Boosting MCV and Hemoglobin Levels
Understanding Elevated CPK Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Dietary Advice
What is CPK? Hello Dr. Lin, I had a blood test at a private laboratory on March 23 of this year, and the results showed the following: 1. SPOT: 332, SGPT: 793, CPK (Creatine Phosphokinase): 336 (of which CPK-MM is 100, and both BB and MB are zero), 4. Cholesterol: 237, 5. Trigly...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Dr. Tsai Yueh-Fu of the Family Medicine Department at Tainan Hospital, Executive Yuan Health Department: 1. Elevated CPK levels are commonly seen in conditions such as polymyositis, myocardial infarction, muscular dystrophy, and cerebrovascular diseases. Regional hospitals ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CPK Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Dietary Advice
Is Drinking Sugar-Free Beverages Safe for Diabetes Prevention?
Diabetes mellitus Hello, doctor. I have been wanting to change my habit of drinking sugary beverages because my grandmother has diabetes, but I haven't been able to. Since last year, I have mainly been drinking sugar-free beverages, such as unsweetened green tea. I'm wo...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Johnny, Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing, Director of the Family Medicine Department at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, would like to inform you that having a family history of diabetes generally increases the genetic predisposition to the condition. It is importan...[Read More] Is Drinking Sugar-Free Beverages Safe for Diabetes Prevention?
Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Issues: Gas, Bloating, and Breathing Difficulties
What exactly is the problem that is difficult to understand? In the past six months, I have been experiencing persistent stomach pain and bloating. I have a history of gastric bleeding and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), so two months ago, I consulted a gastroenterologist...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
It could be caused by indigestion or intestinal obstruction, leading to flatulence and bloating. It is recommended to consult a family medicine physician or a gastroenterologist for an examination. Dr. Huang Jianling.[Read More] Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Issues: Gas, Bloating, and Breathing Difficulties
Should I Take Vitamins? A Guide for Healthy Young Women
Should I take vitamins? Dear Doctor, Hello! I am a 30-year-old woman in generally good health, with some minor issues such as mild constipation, a slightly yellow complexion, and cold hands and feet. I feel that as I age, I should take better care of myself. I am considering whe...
Dr. Liu Jinyong Reply:
1. If you are of your current age and do not have any major illnesses, experiencing mild constipation, please maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, and follow a normal daily routine. 2. If your complexion appears yellowish and your hands and feet are cold, it ma...[Read More] Should I Take Vitamins? A Guide for Healthy Young Women
Can Fish Oil Be Consumed by Those with Gout and High Uric Acid?
If you cannot eat seafood, can you take fish oil? Individuals with gout and high uric acid levels should avoid seafood. However, the consumption of fish oil may be acceptable, as it does not typically raise uric acid levels. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare profession...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Uric acid is a nitrogenous substance found in purines, which are genetic materials such as DNA. It can be synthesized by the body or derived from the metabolism of body tissues or food, such as in cases of injury, intense exercise, or binge eating. Generally, organ meats, gravies...[Read More] Can Fish Oil Be Consumed by Those with Gout and High Uric Acid?
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What You Need to Know
Abnormal test results? Hello Dr. Lin: I underwent a health check-up at the beginning of October, and the test results showed two abnormalities: 1. My urine leukocyte level was 2+, with a reference value of NEGATIVE. 2. Urine sediment: squamous epithelial cells had a value of 46, ...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Sister, 1. May I ask if you are experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination or a burning sensation during urination? If so, please consult with a family medicine or urology specialist. 2. Due to the lack of complete reports on relevant values, such as white blood cell ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Tongue Coating Colors: What White and Yellow Indicate
Tongue coating color The presence of a white coating on the tongue, which can sometimes appear yellow, may indicate a few different conditions. This could be due to oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by Candida, or it may be related to poor oral hygiene, dehydration, or a bui...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Jeffery, Dr. Hsu Li-Yao from the Family Medicine Department of Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, would like to respond to you: The color of the tongue coating is related to diet and oral hygiene. If there are significant changes, it is recommended that ...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Coating Colors: What White and Yellow Indicate
Struggling with Weight Control: Seeking Help for Effective Weight Loss
I love to eat... I want to lose weight... but I have always struggled to control my portion sizes? I am 158 cm tall and weigh 58 kg. I've loved eating since elementary school, and I tend to gain weight all over my body. I want to lose 5 to 10 kg. I've tried dieting, but...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, Xiao Yu: The current indicator for assessing obesity is the Body Mass Index (BMI), calculated by dividing weight (in kilograms) by the square of height (in meters), or BW/(Ht)². A normal BMI ranges from 20 to 24. This can help you evaluate what weight range is considered i...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Control: Seeking Help for Effective Weight Loss
Understanding Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms, Risks, and Care Tips
Hypotension Hello Dr. Huang, I would like to ask you a few questions. Since giving birth (over a year ago), I feel that my body is not as good as it used to be, and my constitution seems to have changed. Previously, my blood pressure readings were always normal, but after givin...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Hello Amy: Your blood pressure is 92/68, which is slightly low. However, other conditions such as anemia, acute or chronic hepatitis, and diabetes may also cause symptoms like dizziness and fatigue. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and g...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms, Risks, and Care Tips
Managing High Cholesterol: Dietary Tips and Specialist Referrals
Cholesterol My cholesterol levels are elevated, but I hardly eat meat and my diet is quite light. What should I do to address this issue? Additionally, if I need to undergo more detailed examinations, which clinic should I visit? Thank you.
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
High cholesterol levels can often be familial. For further evaluation, you may consult a specialist in metabolic disorders.[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Dietary Tips and Specialist Referrals
Understanding Your First Health Check: Key Metrics Explained
Health check-up I recently had my first health check-up, and there are some data points I don't quite understand. Please help me clarify them, thank you! M.C.V: 78.4 cu µm M.C.H: 26.0 r/u Uric Acid: 7.8 mg/dl Cholesterol: 261 mg/dl Triglycerides: 187 mg/dl Are t...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Sheng, This is Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing from the Family Medicine Department of Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan. 1. M.C.V and M.C.H: These represent the size of red blood cells. The numbers indicate that your red blood cells are slightly smaller than normal...[Read More] Understanding Your First Health Check: Key Metrics Explained
Struggling with Constipation and Fatigue: Seeking Solutions for Better Health
Constipation + excessive sleepiness? I have a long-standing habit of constipation, only able to have a bowel movement once a week or even longer. I have tried medications, drinking water, consuming yogurt, and eating high-fiber fruits, but after about four times, they become inef...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Qi, Regarding your inquiry, the causes of constipation are complex and not easily defined. Based on the situation you described, poor intestinal motility appears to be the primary issue. In addition to adjusting dietary types and eating habits, regular brisk walking combine...[Read More] Struggling with Constipation and Fatigue: Seeking Solutions for Better Health
Understanding Your Health Check Report: Alkaline Phosphatase and Triglycerides Explained
Health Check Report Your health check report shows that your alkaline phosphatase level is 23 and your triglycerides level is 44, which are outside the normal range. What health aspects should I pay more attention to regarding these indices? (Note: I accidentally drank a cup of j...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Because the internet user did not provide normal values (which vary by laboratory), it is unclear whether the mentioned test values are low. 1. Alkaline Phosphatase: This enzyme is abundantly present in the liver, bones, small intestine, and placenta. Clinically, it is commonly u...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: Alkaline Phosphatase and Triglycerides Explained
Understanding Constipation After Magnesium Hydroxide Use: A Patient's Query
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I experienced abdominal pain and lower back pain. I underwent examinations at a medical center, including an X-ray, which revealed a significant amount of fecaliths in my abdomen. However, I haven't...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. To prevent constipation, it is best to maintain a normal diet, eat more fruits and fiber-rich foods, drink plenty of water, and engage in moderate exercise. 2. Magnesium oxide, commonly known as a laxative, can be helpful for constipation, but eating some bananas or papayas da...[Read More] Understanding Constipation After Magnesium Hydroxide Use: A Patient's Query
Understanding Your Health Check Results: Key Concerns and Recommendations
Health check results At the beginning of the school year, a health check-up was conducted, and it has been two years since the last examination. This time, some results were abnormal, specifically: Complete Blood Count: Platelet count (PLT) - 403 (normal range 150-400 x 10^3/ml),...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Hasi: Platelet count and fasting blood glucose are slightly elevated, but this has minimal impact; regular annual monitoring is sufficient. SGPT is elevated, and further testing is recommended, such as for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and fatty liver disease. Total cholesterol is hi...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Results: Key Concerns and Recommendations
Is This Supplement Safe for Menopausal Women? Expert Insights
Issues related to menopause? Dear Dr. Jan, Hello, my mother recently purchased a dietary supplement called "Huli Yan Su," which contains the following ingredients: soybean extract (containing 5% isoflavones), gelatin, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Isoflavones are known as phytoestrogens. They can be used for symptoms of menopause such as palpitations and hot flashes. If these symptoms are not present, there is no need to use them. It is important to choose products that are approved by the Department of Health.[Read More] Is This Supplement Safe for Menopausal Women? Expert Insights
Nutritional Needs for Home Care: Ensuring Adequate Caloric Intake
Nutritional issues If your mother is bedridden and relies on a ventilator at home, the daily caloric intake from canned nutritional supplements should not be less than a certain amount, which typically ranges from 25 to 30 calories per kilogram of body weight, depending on her sp...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Ms. Jiang, This is Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing from the Department of Family Medicine at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare. Basically, a daily caloric intake of 1,600 kilocalories serves as a baseline. To assess whether nutrition is adequate, we consider the followin...[Read More] Nutritional Needs for Home Care: Ensuring Adequate Caloric Intake
Understanding Itchy Skin: When to See a Doctor for Relief
Itchy skin? I have been experiencing itchy skin for the past two months. When I scratch, it turns red in patches, resembling mosquito bites that are round or swollen in larger areas. However, it subsides after a few minutes. Which specialist should I see for this issue? I feel th...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Yun, As you have indicated, this appears to be urticaria. You may consult either a dermatologist or a family medicine physician. Antihistamines can be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms. It is advisable to keep the skin dry and to avoid wearing wool or linen clothing. Add...[Read More] Understanding Itchy Skin: When to See a Doctor for Relief