Is It Normal to Feel Chest Tightness from Cold Air?
Inhaling cold air? Doctor, I would like to ask, in previous years, whenever there is a cold front, I feel a tightening sensation in my chest above my heart whenever I breathe in cold air. It's not a pressure or pain. Is this normal? Additionally, there were two occasions whe...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, changes in temperature can affect your body's adaptation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. If you experience any abnormalities in your heartbeat, it is advis...[Read More] Is It Normal to Feel Chest Tightness from Cold Air?
Understanding Recent Ultrasound Findings: Spleen Tumor and Blood Abnormalities
Recent abdominal ultrasound showed a tumor in the spleen and abnormalities in the blood? Hello, doctor. In the past ten years of health check-ups, I have had low levels of red blood cells (including hematocrit and hemoglobin), which were evaluated as suspected thalassemia gene, a...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it is recommended that you first visit a gastroenterologist for a follow-up. If the blood test results show that your hemoglobin levels are below 10 g/dL, please consult a hematologist.[Read More] Understanding Recent Ultrasound Findings: Spleen Tumor and Blood Abnormalities
Impact of Grapefruit Juice on Immunosuppressant Medications After Liver Transplant
Drug interactions Hello doctor, I have had a liver transplant for 20 years and take my medication twice a day at 8 AM and 8 PM. Tonight at 8 PM, I took my medication, which includes Prograf (FK506), an immunosuppressant, along with juice that contains grapefruit. I would like to ...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, online user: The concurrent use of immunosuppressive medications and grapefruit juice may affect the efficacy of the medication. It is advisable to discuss this with your primary physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Impact of Grapefruit Juice on Immunosuppressant Medications After Liver Transplant
Do I Need Rabies Vaccination After Uncertain Animal Encounter?
Rabies Consultation In 2017, I was attacked by an unidentified flying object, specifically on my neck, but I'm not sure if there were any wounds, and I can't confirm if it was a bat. I read that the incubation period for rabies can be as long as 6 years. I would like to...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! If you still have concerns about whether you are infected, it is recommended that you seek medical attention and pay for the rabies vaccine. Please note that you must go to a "designated rabies vaccine storage hospital and location" to receive the vaccine. Before...[Read More] Do I Need Rabies Vaccination After Uncertain Animal Encounter?
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?
Understanding Fever and Chills in Influenza B: Causes and Remedies
Influenza B chills You have been experiencing influenza B symptoms for two days, and you are only taking the antiviral medication in the morning and evening. After the medication wears off, you feel chills again. What could be the reason for this? Thank you.
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
In the past couple of years, the number of influenza cases has indeed been significantly lower than in previous years. If diagnosed with influenza, antiviral medications are crucial in addition to symptomatic relief medications, as the effects of the antiviral drugs take some tim...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Chills in Influenza B: Causes and Remedies
Understanding Body Temperature Variations and Health Implications
Temperature issues Dear Dr. Liao, I have been experiencing anxiety and hypochondriacal tendencies, making me particularly sensitive to changes in my body. Recently, I accidentally measured my body temperature below 35 degrees Celsius (the weather has been cooler lately), which c...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, I would like to remind you that the procedure for measuring body temperature should be consistent to avoid discrepancies. The situation mentioned can actually be assessed by the actual measured temperature to determine if there is a fever. Regard...[Read More] Understanding Body Temperature Variations and Health Implications
Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage: When to Seek Medical Attention
Intracranial hemorrhage Hello, Dr. Yeh. I would like to ask you: As a child, I was a victim of domestic violence and was thrown to the ground, hitting my head, which caused nosebleeds, swelling, and impaired vision. I also experienced bleeding from both ears; I was struck in the ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, I recommend that you visit a psychiatry clinic. As for the examinations, they should be determined by a physician after a consultation.[Read More] Understanding Intracranial Hemorrhage: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Persistent High White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated white blood cell count? My company's health check has been ongoing for nearly eight years, and there has consistently been an issue with elevated white blood cell counts, typically ranging from 11 to 14. Other types of white blood cells have shown no problems. In th...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Che, You mentioned that you have had elevated white blood cell counts for several consecutive years, which may be due to normal physiological variation or a potential underlying inflammatory disease. This year, both your white blood cell and platelet counts are elevate...[Read More] Understanding Persistent High White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations for Patients with Blood Disorders
Which COVID-19 vaccine can be administered for issues related to red blood cells? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire whether I can receive vaccinations given my hereditary thalassemia. Additionally, which vaccine would you recommend as the most appropriate? My annual health ch...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the situations mentioned above are generally not considered absolute contraindications for vaccination. However, individual reactions to vaccines can vary. It is important to observe after vaccination. Online consultations do not equate to in-person medical visits and cann...[Read More] COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations for Patients with Blood Disorders
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
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 Burning Sensation in Lower Back: Causes and Concerns
Burning sensation in the lower back? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a sensation of warmth that spreads from the lower back to the buttocks when sitting or lying down, but it decreases when I get up and walk. What could this be? Is it related to the kidneys?
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it appears to be symptoms of neuroinflammation. I recommend that you consult an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist.[Read More] Understanding Burning Sensation in Lower Back: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Right Upper Back Pain: Causes and Concerns
Right-sided back pain? About a month ago, I suddenly noticed a dull pain in the right side of my upper back near the scapula. After sitting in a slouched position for a while, the discomfort intensifies, but if I sit up straight, the pain completely disappears. Lying down also do...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it may be myofascial inflammation or the presence of trigger points. I recommend that you visit a rehabilitation specialist for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Back Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding the Connection Between Back Pain, Bloating, and Throat Inflammation
The relationship between back pain, bloating, and pharyngitis? The current situation is as follows, and I would like to ask the physician for advice: 1. For the past month or two, I have been experiencing frequent prolonged belching after eating and drinking. I visited a gastroe...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, internet user: Due to the numerous potential causes of back pain, it is difficult to easily determine the underlying reason. I recommend that you visit a family medicine specialist for an examination and evaluation by a physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Back Pain, Bloating, and Throat Inflammation
Understanding Body Odor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Body odor issues I have had a severe body odor for the past three years, and even people who are far away from me say it smells bad. It started suddenly one day three years ago. I can't smell it myself, but my friends say it has a fishy odor. Do I have axillary osmidrosis, o...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you consult with a family medicine or dermatology specialist for medical advice and treatment. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Body Odor: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Can You Get the AZ Vaccine While Taking Tranexamic Acid and Birth Control?
Medication Consultation - Can I receive the AZ vaccine while taking tranexamic acid and birth control pills? Hello Director Liao, Last week, I was prescribed oral tranexamic acid for the treatment of rosacea on my face. I only realized after a week that it should not be taken co...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, there are currently no definitive research reports indicating that the two types of medications mentioned are contraindications for vaccination. However, it is advisable to discuss with the prescribing physician whether to temporarily halt the use of these medications, tak...[Read More] Can You Get the AZ Vaccine While Taking Tranexamic Acid and Birth Control?
Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 120 Better for Seniors than 80?
Is a fasting blood sugar level of 120 better for the body than a fasting level of 80? Is that correct? Hello, doctor. My father is 80 years old and has been suffering from diabetes for many years. There are still many things I don't understand. I found out the following: 1...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, netizen: The average blood glucose levels in the elderly are generally higher than in younger individuals due to differences in basal metabolic rate. Additionally, the body's insulin response activity varies between these age groups. Furthermore, having lower blood gl...[Read More] Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 120 Better for Seniors than 80?
Understanding Free Health Checkups: Eligibility and Purpose Explained
Eligible recipients for free health screenings? Hello, Doctor. Regarding the current government-provided free health check-ups, the eligible groups include individuals aged 40 to 64 who are subsidized once every three years, those aged 65 and older who are subsidized once a year,...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Ms. Su: Since this is not a medical treatment inquiry, I am not very clear about it. Please call our health examination center on the third floor for more information.[Read More] Understanding Free Health Checkups: Eligibility and Purpose Explained