Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Key Questions and Concerns
Medical consultation Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask you about my lab results: Hb: 11.1, RDW-CV: 17.4, RDW-SD: 49.7, HCT: 33.4, ferritin: 9.5. I have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, but are these values considered severe? I have been receiving intravenous iron inf...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Regarding your anemia issue, it is diagnosed as iron deficiency anemia, which should not be a problem. Your hemoglobin level has increased from 8 to 11.1 after receiving intravenous iron therapy. If you do not have any anemia-related symptoms (such as dizziness or fat...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Key Questions and Concerns
Diabetes Management: Understanding Elevated Lab Values After Medication
Diabetes - After medication, the health check values increased in the red? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with diabetes on January 5th this year. Here are some key values for your reference: (January 5 report) HbA1c: 11.2% Fasting Glucose: 223 mg/dL Cholesterol: 209 mg/dL Total Bi...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Ms. Liao: It is recommended that you consult with a physician in the Family Medicine department for further advice and to arrange for examinations. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Diabetes Management: Understanding Elevated Lab Values After Medication
High Glycated Hemoglobin with Normal Blood Sugar: Is It Prediabetes?
Is a high level of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) with normal blood glucose levels indicative of prediabetes? I have been taking antihypertensive and lipid-lowering medications for many years, and I have blood tests every three months. In January, the abnormal results included t...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, dear mother: A glycated hemoglobin level between 5.8 and 6.4 can be classified as prediabetes. Please continue to maintain a healthy diet and engage in moderate exercise, and make sure to have regular follow-ups at the outpatient clinic. Additionally, the presence of abnor...[Read More] High Glycated Hemoglobin with Normal Blood Sugar: Is It Prediabetes?
Understanding Unusual Sensations: What Your Body Might Be Telling You
Strange sensations in the body? Hello, Doctor. Since March 12 of this year, I have been experiencing some strange sensations: 1. I feel as if my ankle or arm is being grabbed, or that someone is pressing down heavily on the top of my head. There was also an instance where I felt ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, from a Western medical perspective, we would likely start by addressing the abnormal sensations and consider the following conditions: 1. Endocrine disorders (such as diabetes or thyroid issues), which may sometimes be accompanied by menstrual ir...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Sensations: What Your Body Might Be Telling You
Understanding Aspirin Use: Concerns and Alternatives for Blood Clot Management
Hello, doctor, regarding the use of aspirin? Recently, I experienced some discomfort in my chest due to pain in my upper left back, which prompted me to see a doctor. After the examination, the doctor performed a blood test and found that my thrombus value was 0.55 (the physician...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, I'm not sure what you mean by "thrombus value." Are you referring to D-Dimer (D-Dimer test)? If so, a value of 0.55 should be considered borderline. As for aspirin, it has antiplatelet aggregation effects, and its impact on D-Dimer levels is subjective. If y...[Read More] Understanding Aspirin Use: Concerns and Alternatives for Blood Clot Management
Understanding Low Cholesterol Levels in Adolescents: Causes and Treatment
Low cholesterol Dear Doctor: A first-grade male student has a blood test report showing a cholesterol level of 103 mg/dL, which is below the normal range of 130-200 mg/dL. What could be the reason for this? How should it be treated?
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, internet user: Low cholesterol can generally be managed by adjusting your diet and monitored by a family physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Low Cholesterol Levels in Adolescents: Causes and Treatment
Understanding Occasional Eye Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Occasionally, there is swelling around the eyes? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about an issue I occasionally experience (possibly once every few months, or more frequently once every couple of months). Upon waking up, I notice swelling around one eye, specifically in the...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to seek medical attention when symptoms appear. If you are concerned about whether it is related to allergies, you may consult an allergist or immunologist for evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and ca...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Eye Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol: Concerns About Lipitor's Impact
Issues related to discontinuation of Lipitor? Hello Doctor, I am an 8-year diabetes patient, 60 years old. For the past 8 years, I have controlled my blood sugar through diet and exercise without taking any hypoglycemic medications. I was diagnosed with diabetes in 2014 with an H...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, internet user: Most cholesterol-lowering medications may induce the onset of diabetes, but there are some cholesterol-lowering drugs that have minimal impact on blood glucose levels. It is advisable to discuss with your primary physician whether to switch to these types of...[Read More] Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol: Concerns About Lipitor's Impact
Understanding Glucose Tolerance Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Glucose tolerance test Hello Doctor: My hemoglobin A1c is 5.5, and the results from my five glucose tolerance tests were as follows: 96, 167, 212, 174, and 132. My attending physician indicated that three of the glucose levels exceeded 140, suggesting poor glucose tolerance and t...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, internet user: Currently, the recommendations for individuals with prediabetes are to maintain a balanced diet and engage in moderate exercise, while also keeping a relaxed mindset and regularly monitoring their condition. You may discuss the frequency of monitoring with y...[Read More] Understanding Glucose Tolerance Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Frequent Migraines with Nausea: When to Seek Medical Help?
Chronic headaches accompanied by vomiting? Hello, I would like to ask about my condition. I have a history of migraines, but in recent years, they have become more frequent, occurring at least once a week, and sometimes the pain is severe enough to cause vomiting. The headache is...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, I recommend that you visit a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation and to understand how to manage your headache issues through diet, lifestyle, and medication.[Read More] Frequent Migraines with Nausea: When to Seek Medical Help?
Building Confidence for Vaccination: Steps to Improve Your Health First
I haven't received the vaccine yet, but I lack confidence in my physical condition? Hello, doctor. I have not received my first dose of the vaccine yet, but I am considering getting vaccinated soon. However, I lack confidence in my physical condition. Several years ago, I un...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Gary! If you have any concerns, it is recommended that you first follow up with a psychiatrist. By adjusting your daily routine and improving your physical health, you can then assess with a family medicine physician whether it is appropriate for you to receive the COVID-19...[Read More] Building Confidence for Vaccination: Steps to Improve Your Health First
Does a Positive Urine Glucose Test Indicate Diabetes?
A urine glucose test result of trace positive (+) may indicate the presence of glucose in the urine, which can be associated with diabetes. However, it is not definitive for diagnosing diabetes. Further testing, such as blood glucose levels or an oral glucose tolerance test, is n...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The diagnosis of diabetes must meet at least one of the following criteria: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≥ 6.5%, fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, classic symptoms of hyperglycemia (increased thirst, increased urination, increased hunger, and weight loss) with a random plasma ...[Read More] Does a Positive Urine Glucose Test Indicate Diabetes?
Why Does Skin Pain Occur After Overindulging in Food?
The day after overeating, the skin becomes tender to the touch? I usually control my diet, but sometimes I indulge in too many fried foods or sweets, or I eat until I'm too full. Additionally, when I drink less water, I notice that on the same day or the next day, if I press...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you consult with a physician in the Family Medicine department for further advice and to arrange for examinations. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Why Does Skin Pain Occur After Overindulging in Food?
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Causes and Next Steps
Recently, there has been an elevated body temperature for the past month? Hello Doctor: I discovered that I had recurrent low-grade fevers at the end of October, and subsequently visited a large hospital for evaluation. Blood and urine tests revealed a urinary tract infection. I ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Body temperature can also be influenced by the environment, clothing, and diet. Some viral infections may not show changes in blood tests. Please avoid spicy or warming foods and supplements that may increase body temperature or promote blood circulation. Additionally, be ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Causes and Next Steps
Potential Interactions Between Medications and Supplements for Seniors
I would like to ask if there are any interactions between taking dietary supplements and medications together? My father (67 years old) regularly takes the following 7 medications: 1. Anbang tablet 0.5 mg 2. Lian Duomian tablet 0.25 mg 3. Diphenhydramine coated tablet 25 mg 4...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, internet user: Most dietary supplements are designed to help you meet your daily requirements for vitamins and minerals, and they generally have a low risk of interactions. Current research has not found an increased risk of bleeding when taking fish oil and aspirin togeth...[Read More] Potential Interactions Between Medications and Supplements for Seniors
Understanding High Cholesterol and Low Triglycerides: A Health Inquiry
Total cholesterol is elevated, but triglycerides are low? Hello, doctor. Recently, I went to the hospital for a blood test and found that my total cholesterol is elevated while my triglycerides are low. I have a habit of working out at home (about 3-4 times a week, alternating tr...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, netizen: The cholesterol levels we commonly refer to are composed of triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Therefore, if triglycerides are high, cholesterol levels will inevitably be high; however, high cholesterol does not neces...[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol and Low Triglycerides: A Health Inquiry
Managing Statin Use: Exercise Safety and Food Interactions
Issues with the use of Rosuvastatin? Hello, doctor. I am currently taking a long-term cholesterol-lowering medication (Lipitor). There are many contraindications for this type of medication, and I have two questions to ask: 1. I do light jogging or brisk walking in the morning ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! For questions related to medication, diet, and exercise, it is advisable to consult your primary care physician or visit a nutrition clinic for guidance. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Statin Use: Exercise Safety and Food Interactions
Understanding Changes in Stool Color After Medication: What You Need to Know
Regarding stool color? Hello Dr. Hou, Last month, my cardiologist switched my medication from Rosuvastatin to Lipitor 500/20. About a week after starting the new medication, I noticed that the color of my first bowel movement in the morning was very dark, almost black. However,...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, if you notice a change in the color of your stool, it is advisable to undergo a preliminary examination and assessment at a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology clinic or with a family medicine physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Color After Medication: What You Need to Know
Understanding Mold in Water Bottles: Health Risks and Precautions
Mold-related issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I recently discovered a significant amount of mold at the bottom of the water bottle that my family has been using for years (I had never noticed it before). I don't know how long it has been there, so I hurried to clean it. I would like...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. JAM: 1. Fungi are ubiquitous in our subtropical and tropical climate; fungi, also known as mycetes, are diverse, but only a few species can cause diseases in humans. Diseases caused by these pathogens are collectively referred to as fungal infections, mycotic infections...[Read More] Understanding Mold in Water Bottles: Health Risks and Precautions
Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Amylase Levels: A Guide for Patients
Laboratory report: Elevated levels of bilirubin and amylase? In the past two years, direct bilirubin and amylase levels have frequently been slightly elevated, while other liver, gallbladder, and blood/urine values remain normal. There has been a long-term history of right upper ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Abnormal levels of bilirubin and amylase suggest that you should follow up with a gastroenterologist specializing in liver and biliary disorders. Additionally, dietary habits are very important, and it is recommended that you reduce your intake of animal fats.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Amylase Levels: A Guide for Patients