How to Encourage a Reluctant Family Member to Seek Medical Help?
How to enforce medical treatment? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask a question. My brother has not worked at all since he was discharged from the military over ten years ago (he is physically healthy). Initially, our parents would constantly nag him, but he still refuses to work ...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Dear user /1/35: It is evident that you are very concerned about your brother's current situation. For the sake of both you and your brother, it is advisable to have him undergo a comprehensive evaluation at a psychiatric outpatient clinic. The possibility of involuntary hos...[Read More] How to Encourage a Reluctant Family Member to Seek Medical Help?
Should You See a Doctor for Potential Rabies Exposure in Children?
About rabies? Hello, doctor. At the end of April, my child (currently 2 years and 11 months old) was scratched and bitten by a cat while playing in a monkey park. At that time, the injury did not seem serious, so we did not take him to see a doctor. A few days later, the wound he...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the likelihood of your child being infected with common bacteria from cats or the rabies virus is low (considering the animal is from a non-endemic area and the wound is minor), so there is no need for special concern. Regarding rabies prophylaxi...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Potential Rabies Exposure in Children?
How Stomach Issues Can Affect Blood Pressure: A Medical Insight
Gastric diseases and blood pressure? Hello, doctor! I have a habit of measuring my blood pressure every day because my gastrointestinal condition has not been good for the past two years. After having a large meal, I often experience gastroesophageal reflux and bloating. However,...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: Stomach discomfort may lead to an increase in blood pressure. It is recommended that you visit a general internal medicine, family medicine, or cardiology outpatient clinic for consultation.[Read More] How Stomach Issues Can Affect Blood Pressure: A Medical Insight
Understanding Chronic Shoulder and Neck Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Stiffness in the shoulders and neck? Hello Dr. Chen: I have been experiencing stiffness in my shoulders and neck for four to five years now, and I have trouble sleeping every night. The only positions that provide some relief are stretching exercises and sleeping on my stomach. I...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear User: Regarding your concerns about long-term stiffness and pain in the shoulders and neck, I recommend that you visit the rehabilitation department at a hospital for further examination. This will help determine whether the issue is related to the musculoskeletal system o...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Shoulder and Neck Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Neck and Eye Issues: Understanding Symptoms and Their Causes
Neck and eye problems? Hello Dr. Chen, I have some questions to ask. I am 28 years old, slightly overweight, and I hardly exercise (except for climbing stairs). I work on a computer all day, and after work, I continue to use the computer at home. Recently, I have started to exper...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit the cardiology outpatient clinic for an evaluation and examination by a physician.[Read More] Neck and Eye Issues: Understanding Symptoms and Their Causes
Rabies Concerns: Can You Get Infected from Trying on Clothes?
Rabies Consultation Hello Dr. Chen: I went to a clothing store to buy some clothes. After trying on two pieces, I noticed a small 0.5 cm cut on my hand when I got home. It didn't bleed and hasn't fully scabbed over. If the previous customer had touched a dog or was a ra...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. If a person or another animal is bitten or scratched by an infected animal, they can contract rabies. Instances of infection through inhalation of aerosolized rabies virus are rare and typically only occur when ...[Read More] Rabies Concerns: Can You Get Infected from Trying on Clothes?
Understanding Lower Body Heat: Which Specialist to Consult?
If you are experiencing heat in the lower body, which specialist should you see? Which doctor? (Forwarded from the Director's mailbox) My mother has been experiencing heat in both of her legs, and she has to rinse them with cold water several times a day. When she soaks her ...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chang, Hello. The issue you have described requires an examination of the lesions for proper assessment. I recommend that you consult with a physician in the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology department to discuss your concerns. Thank you. Wishing you peace and g...[Read More] Understanding Lower Body Heat: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding GERD: Its Impact on Blood Pressure and Emotional Health
Mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for 7 years, classified as Class A. I quit smoking in November 2011 with the intention of curing my GERD. In April of this year, I underwent an endoscopy. B...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the causes of gastroesophageal reflux are related to gastric acid secretion and the structure of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as peristalsis. Of course, emotional stress and tension can also exacerbate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. However, as one ages, i...[Read More] Understanding GERD: Its Impact on Blood Pressure and Emotional Health
Post-Circumcision Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice and Treatment
Post-circumcision surgery? Hello Doctor: I had a circumcision ten years ago, and there are suture holes and small granulation tissue at the sutured area. Occasionally, when I squeeze the suture site, a white powdery substance is expelled. Do I need treatment or surgery for this? ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, I recommend that you visit a urology clinic, as it may be an infection issue that requires further treatment.[Read More] Post-Circumcision Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice and Treatment
How to Identify the Right Specialist for Your Medical Symptoms
I want to see a doctor, but I'm not sure how to identify the right treatment for my symptoms? Hello, doctor. My situation is as follows: I have a slight cold, which mainly involved sneezing. While taking an exam, I experienced some mild headaches and a warm sensation in my e...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It is recommended to relax and give yourself some outdoor leisure time. If you continue to feel troubled, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a family medicine physician for evaluation and professional judgment, who can then provide you with relevant advice and treatm...[Read More] How to Identify the Right Specialist for Your Medical Symptoms
Understanding Night Sweats: Causes and Health Implications
Night sweats Hello Dr. Chen, my husband is currently 45 years old, has a normal lifestyle, stands 183 cm tall, weighs 72 kg, is slender, and has no adverse health conditions. However, he has experienced excessive sweating at night on two occasions, where his arms felt wet to the ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
The letter mentions that your husband has experienced episodes of excessive sweating at night on two occasions. It is important to monitor for symptoms such as chest tightness, dizziness, weakness, or trembling, which may indicate heart issues or hypoglycemia. If there are no dis...[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats: Causes and Health Implications
Chickenpox Vaccination: Dosage and Pregnancy Considerations
Chickenpox issues I am 24 years old. I received the first dose of the varicella vaccine in September 2012. I did not receive the second dose because I got the MMR vaccine in between. If I go to get the varicella vaccine now (February 2013), do I only need to receive one more dose...
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
Recommendation: Since the timing of the MMR vaccination and the interval between it and the varicella vaccine are not specified, we are unable to provide a response. Please consult a nearby obstetrician-gynecologist, pediatrician, or family medicine physician for further guidance...[Read More] Chickenpox Vaccination: Dosage and Pregnancy Considerations
Severe Headaches After Crying: Understanding Emotional Triggers
Headache after crying? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about my girlfriend's condition. She is 26 years old and generally healthy, but after we have arguments and her emotions become very intense, she experiences severe headaches. The pain is so intense that she someti...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It is recommended to adjust your daily routine and engage in appropriate exercise. If necessary, you may first consult a family medicine physician, who can provide an evaluation and professional judgment before offering relevant advice and treatment.[Read More] Severe Headaches After Crying: Understanding Emotional Triggers
Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Prediabetes Risks
Diabetes issues Hello, I had a fasting blood glucose level of 93 mg/dL during my health check in mid-2008, and it increased to 104 mg/dL during my health check in mid-2011. Does fasting blood glucose fluctuate or does it consistently rise year after year? There are reports statin...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, A San Ge: In your letter, you mentioned your fasting blood glucose levels. According to the standards published by the Department of Health, a normal fasting blood glucose level is below 100 mg/dL. A fasting blood glucose level between 100 and 126 mg/dL indicates abnormal...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Prediabetes Risks
Understanding Subcutaneous Hemorrhage: Causes and Concerns
Petechiae Hello, doctor. Today I woke up and suddenly noticed dark red or coffee-colored petechiae (like needle pricks) under the skin of my left arm. The day before, I had a Thai oil massage that involved my arms, and later that night I ate a drunken chicken hot pot. Could this ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: The letter mentions that your platelet counts from the past few years of health check-ups have been within the normal range (normal platelet count is 150,000-400,000/μL). Additionally, small subcutaneous hemorrhages are usually caused by bleeding from the skin's micro...[Read More] Understanding Subcutaneous Hemorrhage: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Skin Issues Related to Blood Platelet Levels
Skin issues and blood? The platelet counts from 1998 to 2001 were 259,000, 260,000, 255,000, 239,000, and 240,000. Are these values considered low? Today, I woke up and suddenly noticed small red spots under the skin on my left forearm, resembling pinpoint bleeding. They are simi...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: The letter mentions that your platelet counts from the past few years of health check-ups have been within the normal range (the normal platelet count is 150,000-400,000/μL). Additionally, small subcutaneous hemorrhages are usually caused by bleeding from the skin's m...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues Related to Blood Platelet Levels
Understanding Cerebral Embolism: Key Concerns for Family Caregivers
Cerebrovascular embolism - which specialty does it fall under? Hello Dr. Yeh, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask a question regarding my mother, who is currently 45 years old. In April of this year, she was found to have abnormal facial expressions and was di...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Cerebral vascular embolism falls under the category of neurology and is considered an emergency. Immediate medical attention is necessary, as early treatment can reduce the risk of sequelae.[Read More] Understanding Cerebral Embolism: Key Concerns for Family Caregivers
Concerned About Cat-Transmitted Parasites? Which Specialist to Consult?
If you suspect that you have contracted a parasitic infection from a cat, you should see a specialist in infectious diseases or a veterinarian if you are seeking advice for your pet. For human health concerns, a visit to a primary care physician or an infectious disease specialis...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear user, You mentioned that you have been experiencing a sensation of foreign body itchiness in your ears recently. An otolaryngologist will typically check for any signs of foreign bodies or infections in the ear canal during an examination. Since you have already consulted a...[Read More] Concerned About Cat-Transmitted Parasites? Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Weight Fluctuations and Health Concerns in Family Medicine
Weight issues? Recently, I have been concerned about my health due to several issues that make me suspect I might have a serious illness. Here are my concerns: 1. I have had swollen lymph nodes in my neck for over a year, but their size has not changed significantly; they someti...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your concerns: 1. It is recommended to have a further evaluation of the neck lymph nodes by an otolaryngologist. 2. Issues related to the testicles should be followed up with a urologist. 3. The differential white blood cell count appears to be within normal limi...[Read More] Understanding Weight Fluctuations and Health Concerns in Family Medicine
Understanding Health Check Results: Key Concerns for a 63-Year-Old Man
I would like to inquire about the health check results? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about my father's health check-up report results: <1> Male, 63 years old, 180 cm, 72 kg <2> Electrocardiogram: Abnormal R wave, abnormal ST segment, heart murmur <3&g...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear User, Regarding the issues mentioned in your health check report, the points highlighted in red are summarized as follows: 1. **Electrocardiogram (ECG) Findings**: Abnormal R wave, abnormal ST segment, and heart murmurs. It is recommended to visit a cardiology clinic for a...[Read More] Understanding Health Check Results: Key Concerns for a 63-Year-Old Man