Understanding Your Anemia Diagnosis: Key Insights and Next Steps
I would like to know what type of anemia I have based on my health screening results? Hello, doctor. I have been working abroad for many years, and recently, at my company's request, I underwent a health check-up. My blood tests were conducted twice, and although the doctors...
Dr. Huang Xunying Reply:
Hello: If possible, it is recommended to recheck your white blood cell count. The mention of no blasts indicates a lower concern for cancerous changes, but if you are still worried, a retest can be done. Regarding the red blood cell count, you have microcytic anemia, which is mos...[Read More] Understanding Your Anemia Diagnosis: Key Insights and Next Steps
Understanding Immunity: Should You Get Tested After Shingles Recurrence?
Immune system assessment? Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with shingles six years ago, and it seems to have recurred recently (mildly). I heard from a doctor that this condition typically does not recur unless there is an abnormality in the immune system. However, I am only 24 year...
Dr. Huang Xunying Reply:
Hello: The virus that causes shingles remains dormant in your nerve roots after healing. Therefore, whenever your immune system weakens, shingles can recur, and it is also possible for young people to develop shingles. Additionally, blood tests that are more related to immune fun...[Read More] Understanding Immunity: Should You Get Tested After Shingles Recurrence?
Understanding High White Blood Cell Count and Lipid Levels: Key Health Insights
Elevated white blood cell count, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor: I recently had blood tests done on March 6, which included urine, blood, liver, and kidney function tests. The results showed elevated white blood cells (17,140), tr...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● There are many causes for elevated white blood cell counts, including inflammation, infection, or other diseases. It is advisable to monitor for symptoms such as fever, sore throat, diarrhea, or other recent significant physical discomfort. If none are present, it is still reco...[Read More] Understanding High White Blood Cell Count and Lipid Levels: Key Health Insights
Insomnia and Right Chest Pain: Understanding Your Symptoms
Insomnia and right chest pain? I have been experiencing insomnia for the past two months. Even though I feel very tired, I just can't fall asleep. I often go to bed around 1 AM and don't fall asleep until around 3 or 4 AM, and sometimes I just lie there until dawn. I on...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is recommended that you first consult your family physician for an evaluation. Additionally, for insomnia issues, you may seek assistance from a psychiatrist. Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and...[Read More] Insomnia and Right Chest Pain: Understanding Your Symptoms
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions on Medication and Recovery
Thyroid issues Hello, Doctor! My heart rate increased from 70-80 to around 100 due to hyperthyroidism, and my systolic blood pressure rose from 88 to about 103. After taking thyroid medication and the beta-blocker Inderal (propranolol) for two weeks, my systolic blood pressure is...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Entacapone can lower heart rate and partially suppress thyroid function, generally used when the heart rate exceeds 90 beats per minute; if the heart rate returns to normal and there are no other discomforts, it is acceptable to discontinue the medication directly. ● Antithyroi...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions on Medication and Recovery
Understanding Involuntary Twitches Near the Nose: Causes and Concerns
Twitching near the bridge of the nose? Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing involuntary twitching above my nasal bridge (not my eyelid), which feels a bit uncomfortable. Is this what is referred to as "facial nerve dysfunction"? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
Hello, it appears to be facial nerve spasm. The facial nerve is the seventh cranial nerve, which has five branches in the face that control the movement of facial muscles. If the facial nerve is injured, infected, or compressed by blood vessels or tumors, it may lead to involunta...[Read More] Understanding Involuntary Twitches Near the Nose: Causes and Concerns
Which Specialist to Consult for Persistent Shortness of Breath?
If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, you should see a pulmonologist? Hello, my mother is 73 years old. Six months ago, she started experiencing shortness of breath (even while walking on flat ground), but she does not cough. She underwent X-rays, a resting electrocardiog...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
There are many causes of shortness of breath, and it is important to prioritize the exclusion of heart and lung issues. Regarding the heart, conditions such as heart failure (common in the elderly), arrhythmias (such as atrial fibrillation, also common in older adults), myocardia...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Persistent Shortness of Breath?
Can You Get HIV from Saliva During a Nosebleed?
HIV infection issues During a conversation with someone, it seemed that a bit of their saliva sprayed into my nostrils, and at that time, my nose was dry and I had a nosebleed (after talking, I used tissue to wipe away quite a bit of blood). If their saliva contained blood due to...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● There are three main routes of HIV transmission: (1) sexual transmission (through sexual intercourse or exchange of bodily fluids during intercourse), (2) blood transmission (such as contact with HIV-contaminated blood, sharing needles, or receiving organs from an HIV-infected ...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Saliva During a Nosebleed?
Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for Sudden Vision Loss?
Which specialty should I see? A couple of years ago, I experienced several episodes where my vision suddenly went completely dark for a few seconds. During that time, I had difficulty maintaining my balance, and my limbs would tremble. I was conscious but unable to control my bod...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● When you suddenly experience a blackout, what were you doing? For example, prolonged standing or sitting, dehydration can lead to poor blood circulation, resulting in low blood pressure and symptoms similar to fainting (such as seeing black, inability to stand, etc.); if you ch...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for Sudden Vision Loss?
Managing Multiple Health Issues: A Guide for Patients with Complex Symptoms
Having many health issues can make it difficult to know what to do? Hello Doctor, I have symptoms of mitral valve prolapse, gastroesophageal reflux disease, being a carrier of thalassemia, and headaches. I have previously undergone surgery for bilateral tonsillectomy and a liposa...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● There are many possible causes for chest tightness, including the issues you mentioned, such as bronchial problems or gastroesophageal reflux (you can refer to my other article at https://goo.gl/jkWwha). Generally, mild mitral valve prolapse is mostly asymptomatic and does not ...[Read More] Managing Multiple Health Issues: A Guide for Patients with Complex Symptoms
Left Eye Movement Issues and Ear Heat: Possible Causes and Solutions
The left eye movement is not smooth, and there is a sensation of heat in the left inner ear? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing difficulty in moving my left eye smoothly. When I look up, my left eye appears asymmetrical compared to the right, and I have to exert a lo...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Eye movement is controlled by three pairs of cranial nerves: the third oculomotor nerve, the fourth trochlear nerve, and the sixth abducens nerve. These nerves are responsible for coordinating the movement of both eyes, with the third oculomotor nerve being the most crucial. It...[Read More] Left Eye Movement Issues and Ear Heat: Possible Causes and Solutions
Impact of Switching Dominant Hand After Injury: Insights and Concerns
Changing Dominant Hand Hello Dr. Liao, I am currently 22 years old. Last year, I suffered a right clavicle fracture due to a car accident, which made me hesitant to use my dominant right hand for an extended period. Gradually, I shifted the focus of my activities to my left han...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your concerns, it is not very clear whether there will be changes in attention. If you continue to exhibit such symptoms, it is advisable to seek an evaluation from a psychiatrist. Please note that online consultations do not equate to in-person medical visits an...[Read More] Impact of Switching Dominant Hand After Injury: Insights and Concerns
Understanding Persistent Throat Clearing and Coughing in Active Individuals
Easily hungry and prone to coughing when fasting? Hello Doctor, my husband (non-smoker, non-drinker, loves to exercise) has been clearing his throat frequently for about three years. He underwent surgery for inferior turbinate reduction to alleviate nasal congestion, but the thro...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● There are many reasons for throat clearing, which may be due to a sensation of something stuck in the throat. The most common causes include post-nasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), asthma, or certain medications (such as antihypertensives). It is also important...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat Clearing and Coughing in Active Individuals
Understanding HIV Symptoms: Concerns for Young Adults
Symptoms of HIV/AIDS Hello doctor, I am 18 years old, a virgin, and have never undergone intravenous injection or shared needles. My mother also does not have HIV. Recently, I received information about HIV and it reminded me of a similar flu-like illness I experienced last winte...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Hello: HIV is generally transmitted through sexual contact, blood, bodily fluids, and shared needles. If you have not engaged in these activities, there is no need to be overly concerned about contracting HIV. If you have any doubts or experience other physical discomfort, you ma...[Read More] Understanding HIV Symptoms: Concerns for Young Adults
Understanding Chronic Fatigue and Right-Side Discomfort: What to Do?
Fatigue on the right side of the body? Dear Dr. Chang, Hello! I have been feeling extremely fatigued for the past two and a half years, unable to get enough sleep, and struggling with concentration. Additionally, my right side feels particularly heavy, and my bones are very sore...
Dr. Zhang Hongwei Reply:
Hello: Due to the multiple symptoms you are experiencing, it is recommended that you visit a family medicine department at a hospital for a thorough examination. This may need to include blood tests and abdominal imaging studies. Additionally, these symptoms could also be influen...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Fatigue and Right-Side Discomfort: What to Do?
Understanding the Causes of Low Cholesterol Levels: A Guide for Patients
Please explain the causes of low cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I have undergone several tests in the urology department, and since the year before last, my blood tests have consistently shown low cholesterol levels. I heard that thyroid issues can be one of the causes of low choles...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding low cholesterol levels, what is considered too low? It is recommended to visit the Metabolism Department for a comprehensive evaluation of endocrine conditions at Changhua Hospital. We care about you.[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Low Cholesterol Levels: A Guide for Patients
Understanding High Platelet Counts: What You Need to Know
Thrombocytosis Hello Doctor, my recent health check-up report shows that my platelet count is as high as 550,000, while it was around 200,000 for the past three years. I consulted a doctor, and he advised me to drink more water, donate blood, and have my blood tested again in a f...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding this report, the platelet count should be slightly above the reference range (which may vary among different laboratories), but it does not necessarily indicate clinical symptoms. It is recommended to follow up with a hematology specialist at Changhua Hospital fo...[Read More] Understanding High Platelet Counts: What You Need to Know
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Which Specialist to Consult?
Abdominal issues? Doctor, I'm not sure which organ is causing my issues—whether it's my gastrointestinal system, liver, gallbladder, kidneys, or pancreas. I have sharp pain in the upper left abdomen, and I still feel very hungry shortly after eating. My stomach feels bl...
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
Based on your description, peptic ulcer disease or irritable bowel syndrome cannot be ruled out. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Which Specialist to Consult?
Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for Your Symptoms?
Which department should I consult? Hello, doctor. I have multiple and varied health issues, and I'm unsure what to pay attention to or which specialty to consult. 1. I frequently get mouth ulcers that take a long time to heal, sometimes occurring in two or three places at ...
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
Based on the situation you described, it is advisable to consult a trusted family physician or a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for examination and treatment. Thank you.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for Your Symptoms?
Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Shoulder and Stomach Pain?
Which department should I consult? Hello, my mother (approximately 63 years old) has recently experienced shoulder pain (mainly in the left shoulder) along with stomach pain. The pain extends to her back and appeared suddenly without any warning. She usually commutes by bicycle, ...
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
Based on the situation you described, it is advisable to consult a trusted family physician or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for examination and treatment. Thank you.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Shoulder and Stomach Pain?