Understanding Weight Gain and Abdominal Changes: A Medical Perspective
Weight gain and body shape changes - increased abdominal fat? Hello Dr. Hou, I have a few questions regarding weight gain (I am 156 cm tall and weigh 48.4 kg). 1) Since the Lunar New Year, my weight has been steadily increasing (from 46 kg to the current 48.4 kg), and fat has s...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, an increase in the intake of sugary beverages can easily lead to weight gain, so it is recommended that you start with dietary control. As for whether steroids have an impact, it is advisable to discuss this with your rheumatology and immunology special...[Read More] Understanding Weight Gain and Abdominal Changes: A Medical Perspective
Understanding Chronic Right Lower Abdomen Discomfort: IBS or Nerve Issues?
Follow-up Question #186095 Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Lin, Thank you very much for your response and guidance in the consultation regarding my inquiry #186095. I have greatly benefited from it. I would like to ask Dr. Lin the following questions: Q1. My issue of bloating in ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) primarily include abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel habits, constipation, and diarrhea, among others. These symptoms typically persist for several months or longer. Additionally, IBS is classified as a "functi...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Right Lower Abdomen Discomfort: IBS or Nerve Issues?
Understanding Persistent Right Lower Abdominal Discomfort: A Guide
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Lin, At the end of 2017, after having a somewhat sour orange for dinner, I experienced an inability to pass gas when I went to bed that night. I ended up running to the bathroom to have a bowel movement and pass gas four times. The next day, the gas...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on the location of your abdominal discomfort, it may be related to issues with the liver, gallbladder, large intestine, kidneys, or urinary tract system. If there have been no significant changes or worsening over the past five years, common considerations include...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Right Lower Abdominal Discomfort: A Guide
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
Managing Minor Wound Care After a Car Accident: Tetanus Concerns
Wound issues after a car accident? Hello, Doctor: A few days ago, I had an accident and fell, resulting in a localized abrasion on my lower leg (about 2-3 cm). About half an hour later, I went to the pharmacy to purchase antiseptic products, and the next day I visited the hospita...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is found in soil and animal feces, and it invades the human body through broken skin. It can also be contracted after burns or animal bites. Since tetanus bacteria are anaerobic, the likelihood of infection from ...[Read More] Managing Minor Wound Care After a Car Accident: Tetanus Concerns
Understanding Cholesterol and Urine Test Results: A Guide for Underweight Patients
Questions about lipid profile and urine tests in health check-ups? I have been underweight for a long time. Recently, I underwent an employee health check, and my measurements were 171 cm and 45.7 kg (I lost about 3 kg in the past year due to orthodontic treatment). The health ch...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: If you want to gain weight without increasing cholesterol, you can increase your protein intake, reduce high-fat foods, and engage in moderate exercise. It is also recommended to regularly monitor your urine and liver function tests. Wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Cholesterol and Urine Test Results: A Guide for Underweight Patients
Understanding the Connection Between Constipation, Urinary Issues, and Buttock Pain
Inquiring about the relationship between constipation, urgency of urination, frequency of urination, and perineal pain? Hello, doctor. I am 28 years old and have a habit of sitting for long periods. Recently, I visited a gastroenterologist due to constipation issues. After an abd...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist to assess your intestinal condition, or you may consider arranging a self-paid health check to clarify any abnormalities. For the persistent pain in your buttocks, you can seek a professiona...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Constipation, Urinary Issues, and Buttock Pain
Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Weight loss The last time I measured my weight was around March or April of this year, and the result was 59 kilograms. Before that, I had maintained a weight of 56 kilograms for a full seven years. I was initially relieved that I finally started to gain weight, but today my weig...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsu: 1. There are many reasons for weight loss; common diseases include hyperthyroidism, diabetes, cancer, depression, schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa, chronic peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis, esophageal stricture, hepatitis, and cirrhosi...[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Chest Rash and Rib Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help
Rash under the left breast along the bra line and behind the bra clasp, with pain in the lower left rib area? 1. Recently, I've been feeling low on energy and easily fatigued, with a slight discomfort in my throat. 2. My neck feels stiff and uncomfortable, similar to a stiff...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello from Taipei to Vienna: For items 2 and 4, there may be inflammation of the muscles and cartilage; please pay attention to whether your bra is too tight or if the underwire is causing pressure. For items 1, 5, and 6, please consult an otolaryngologist to check for pharyngiti...[Read More] Chest Rash and Rib Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help
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 Rectal Bleeding in Elderly Patients: When to Seek Help
Rectal bleeding? You should consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon for your mother's condition. They specialize in disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate management for the bleeding and any potential hemorr...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen, You mentioned that your mother is 90 years old and has recently been experiencing recurrent blood clots from the anus. It is recommended that she visit a colorectal specialist for an examination, and to assess whether further investigation is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding in Elderly Patients: When to Seek Help
Understanding Umbilical Skin Issues and Their Possible Connection to Diarrhea
Umbilical dermatitis Hello Doctor, I have two questions I would like to ask: 1. A few days ago, I noticed a patch of broken skin next to my navel, and the navel itself appears red, swollen, and peeling, with a slight aching sensation. I went to the pharmacy to ask the pharmac...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The ingredients in the Yuan Chao Shuyi Skin Ointment include antifungals, steroids, and antibiotics, which should be effective for general epidermal infections. However, if the infection around your navel has penetrated deeper into the tissue, you may need to seek medic...[Read More] Understanding Umbilical Skin Issues and Their Possible Connection to Diarrhea
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 Ear Discomfort: Earwax Issues or Possible Infections?
Earwax odor and a feeling of fullness in the ear? Hello, doctor. I started noticing a feeling of fullness in my left ear three days ago. I have been cleaning my ears, and the earwax from my left ear smells worse than that from my right ear. The earwax is yellow and stickier than ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation. If infection symptoms are confirmed, early treatment should be initiated. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatments. Chang...[Read More] Understanding Ear Discomfort: Earwax Issues or Possible Infections?
Understanding Black Flashes Around the Eyes: Causes and Concerns
Flashing black around the eyes? I recently noticed that when I spend about an hour in an air-conditioned room at the library and then look down to use my phone, I experience a flickering darkness around my eyes, almost like a light turning off and on within less than a second, wh...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is suspected that there may be peripheral vision loss. Possible conditions include retinal diseases, glaucoma, or migraines. It is strongly recommended that you consult an ophthalmologist.[Read More] Understanding Black Flashes Around the Eyes: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Cholesterol Changes: Is a 24-Point Increase Significant?
Cholesterol has increased by 24 over the past two years? Hello, I would like to ask about my total cholesterol levels. When I was 20 years old, my total cholesterol was 172, and two years later, it increased to 196. Although both values are within the normal range, does this incr...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Cholesterol levels can be influenced by diet and exercise habits, and since your cholesterol is still within the normal range, you only need to monitor it regularly without excessive worry. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol Changes: Is a 24-Point Increase Significant?
Managing Infected Wounds: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
The wound has pus? Last Thursday, I was bitten by a dog and received a tetanus shot and antibiotics. Yesterday, Tuesday, there was still some red and yellow fluid oozing from the wound. I went to see a surgeon, who applied medication and prescribed a three-day course of antibioti...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your wound appears to have some necrotic tissue and pus in the center, with surrounding redness and swelling, which raises concerns about a possible infection. If the redness and swelling do not improve after completing three days of antibiotics and ointment, I recommend t...[Read More] Managing Infected Wounds: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Managing High Cholesterol: Key Questions and Answers for Your Health
High cholesterol Hello Doctor: Here are my two test reports, from February 2021 and July 2022: Total cholesterol: 215, 226 (unit: mg/dL) Triglycerides: 69, 126 (unit: mg/dL) HDL-cholesterol: 36, 37 (unit: mg/dL) LDL-cholesterol: 160, 164 (unit: mg/dL) Total cholesterol/...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Based on the report and medical history you provided, although your current lipid levels have slightly increased, they are still not at the stage where medication is recommended. It is advised that you reduce your calorie intake, increase your consumption of fruits and veg...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Key Questions and Answers for Your Health
Sudden Sharp Pain in Upper Left Back After Shower: Causes and Concerns
Sudden sharp pain in the upper left back after taking a shower? Hello Doctor: I am currently 23 years old, 163 cm tall, and weigh 55 kg. Aside from panic disorder, I have no significant medical history, and I have undergone a 24-hour Holter monitor with no abnormalities. Today, a...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: Heart pain accompanied by cold sweats and pale complexion may be related to the spine or back muscles and ligaments. You can visit an orthopedic specialist.[Read More] Sudden Sharp Pain in Upper Left Back After Shower: Causes and Concerns
Do Home Blood Pressure Monitors Need Calibration? Expert Insights
Blood pressure issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire whether a home electronic blood pressure monitor (upper arm type) needs to be calibrated. I have not calibrated my blood pressure monitor since I bought it about 4 years ago, but each time I measure at the clinic, it te...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If the blood pressure readings from your home monitor have been consistent over the past four years, there may not be a need to have it calibrated at a store. Additionally, if you tend to be a more anxious person, the higher blood pressure readings during your medical visi...[Read More] Do Home Blood Pressure Monitors Need Calibration? Expert Insights