How to Choose the Right Specialist for High LDL-C Levels
Abnormal LDL-C - How to make an appointment at the outpatient clinic? Hello: During last year's health check-up (September 2022), I noticed several abnormalities, among which my LDL-C has been above the normal range for several consecutive years. I later attended a consultat...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. If a patient is experiencing chest tightness, chest pain, or acute coronary syndrome, it is recommended to directly schedule an appointment with a cardiologist. 2. If there are no heart-related diseases and only abnormal cholesterol levels are present, then a cardiologist, end...[Read More] How to Choose the Right Specialist for High LDL-C Levels
Essential Health Checkups: Addressing Your Concerns and Symptoms
Physical examination Hello Doctor, I have health anxiety, so I am very sensitive to changes in my body. I am particularly afraid of serious illnesses like cancer and often overthink minor issues (the family medicine doctors I’ve seen say I tend to overreact). I have undergone man...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: 1. A superficial lipoma in the abdominal area, if it has not increased in size or shown any other significant changes, is generally not a concern. However, if it continues to grow, it is advisable to follow up with a general surgery outpatient clinic at a regional...[Read More] Essential Health Checkups: Addressing Your Concerns and Symptoms
Understanding Enlarged Earlobes: Causes and When to Seek Help
Swelling of one earlobe? Doctor, I have a habit of sleeping on my side, but not throughout the entire night. Today, I woke up to find that my earlobe has become enlarged, but it doesn't hurt, itch, or have any wounds. I do rub my ears a bit while showering, but I don't ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is advisable to have your family physician evaluate you in person to confirm whether there are any abnormalities. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Ch...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Earlobes: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Symptoms: Liver Pain, Lymph Nodes, and Sleep Issues
Lymph nodes, liver, neck, rib pain, and bruising during sleep? 1. About five years ago, I had liver inflammation issues when I was around 20 years old. I felt a bloated, numb sensation, as if there was something hard inside. At that time, the doctor diagnosed me with fatty liver....
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The more common causes of liver inflammation are hepatitis B, hepatitis C, fatty liver disease, and alcoholic hepatitis. Liver function tests require blood draws for diagnosis. Regarding the intermittent sharp pain in your left and right abdomen, it is advisable to cons...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Liver Pain, Lymph Nodes, and Sleep Issues
Concerns About Vibrio Infection After Fishing: What You Need to Know
The possibility of Vibrio species in shrimp fishing ponds? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the lengthy question. I would like to ask about an incident that occurred yesterday when I went to a shrimp fishing venue for the first time. I accidentally got pricked by a fish hook on my h...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a bacterium commonly found in marine environments, and there are two main routes of infection. The first is through the consumption of contaminated seafood, such as oysters, clams, and raw fish. The second route is through direct infection via the skin,...[Read More] Concerns About Vibrio Infection After Fishing: What You Need to Know
Understanding Low Body Temperature: Causes and Management for Chronic Conditions
Recently, I have noticed that my body temperature is abnormally low, at 34.7 degrees Celsius? Hello, doctor. I have a history of diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease for 32 years. My hemoglobin A1c was 6.6 in December last year. I was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis in Jul...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your issue of having a low body temperature may be related to hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, hypoglycemia, nutritional deficiencies, neuromuscular diseases, infections, and so on. Additionally, the frequent cramping you experience may be associated with electrolyte...[Read More] Understanding Low Body Temperature: Causes and Management for Chronic Conditions
Is Bruising After Moderna Bivalent Vaccine a Normal Reaction?
After receiving the Moderna bivalent next-generation vaccine, there was bruising? Hello Doctor: My mother, who is 66 years old, noticed a bruise at the injection site three days after receiving the Moderna bivalent next-generation vaccine. Is this a normal reaction? Will it resol...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: During vaccination, it is possible to injure the local microvasculature, leading to bruising. Generally, this will resolve on its own. However, if the bruise continues to enlarge, there is severe swelling and pain, the appearance of other bruises on the body, difficulty br...[Read More] Is Bruising After Moderna Bivalent Vaccine a Normal Reaction?
Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Skin issues Hello doctor, I have sensitive and dry skin, and I would like to ask if I need to remove makeup when sharing a phone or other items with someone who wears makeup, as well as during physical contact. I feel like my hands don't get completely clean after washing, a...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: For your sensitive and dry skin issues, it is recommended to regularly use a moisturizing lotion for skincare. Additionally, when sharing phones or other items with individuals who wear makeup, as well as during brief physical contact, the amount of makeup transferred is u...[Read More] Do You Need to Remove Makeup When Sharing Items with Sensitive Skin?
Facial Pain and Asymmetry: Which Specialist to Consult?
Cheek tenderness upon palpation? Hello, recently I have been experiencing pain on the right side of my cheek (just below the cheekbone) only when pressed, and there is noticeable asymmetry in the flesh on both sides of my chin, with the left side visibly sagging while the right s...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the symptoms are also atypical. It is recommended that you first consult your family physician for an evaluation, and depending on the situation, they may refer you to other subspecialties. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent...[Read More] Facial Pain and Asymmetry: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Foot Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Numbness in the soles of the feet? I would like to inquire about the issue of foot numbness. Recently, I have noticed that I frequently experience numbness in the soles of my feet. I have had this issue before, but it was not common. My usual work involves sitting at a desk for l...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: I suggest that you consult with a neurologist for evaluation. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Foot Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Does Cholesterol Medication Affect Blood Test Results? Insights and Concerns
Will treatment for hyperlipidemia affect blood test results? 1. Last October, due to elevated cholesterol levels, my doctor recommended medication for hyperlipidemia (Rosuvastatin). Recently, in two check-ups, my GPT levels have increased (currently at 61 IU/L), while my GOT is a...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Mr. Hong: Coronary lipid-lowering agents may cause an increase in liver function tests, while changes in blood parameters are less common. Since we are unaware of any other diseases or medications you may have, it is advisable to consult with your primary physician to evalu...[Read More] Does Cholesterol Medication Affect Blood Test Results? Insights and Concerns
How to Access Your Vaccination Records in Taiwan's Healthcare System
Where can I check my vaccination records? Hello, doctor. A few years ago, I received vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis B, and some other vaccines, but today when I used the health passbook feature in the National Health Insurance app, I only found records of the vaccines admini...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The following information is provided by the Ministry of Health and Welfare: Individuals or medical institutions can inquire about vaccination records through the following three channels: 1. Since 2014, contracted medical institutions can connect to the "National Imm...[Read More] How to Access Your Vaccination Records in Taiwan's Healthcare System
Weight Loss, Diabetes, and Gastrointestinal Issues: Understanding the Connection
Weight issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello, doctor. I am currently away and would like to inquire about my father, who is 54 years old. A month ago, he noticed weight loss and frequent bloating. We suspect it might be related to diabetes, as he has a history of h...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: With dietary control and medication treatment, it is possible to lose weight if you are initially overweight. However, since there are various reasons for weight loss, it is still recommended to consult and evaluate with your primary physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Weight Loss, Diabetes, and Gastrointestinal Issues: Understanding the Connection
Does Long-Term Herbal Supplementation Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Blood glucose levels Does long-term consumption of blood-nourishing herbal powders affect fasting blood glucose levels? For breakfast, I eat large oatmeal with soy milk and one egg; for lunch, I have stir-fried vegetables, zucchini, carrots, and chicken breast; for dinner, I usua...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Ms. Tong: If food or medication contains caloric substances (carbohydrates, proteins, or fats) that can be absorbed by the body, it can affect blood sugar levels. The type and quantity of food consumed can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. From your message, it se...[Read More] Does Long-Term Herbal Supplementation Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Understanding Cholesterol Changes: Causes and Solutions for Your Health
Increased cholesterol Hello Doctor, since I turned 30, I have been getting annual check-ups. My total cholesterol has been around 200-220 (with HDL around the 80s and LDL around 100, and the doctor said my HDL is good, so it's not a concern). However, I noticed in last year&...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Ann: 1. Your total cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels are elevated, and it is advisable to first manage this through diet and exercise. It is recommended to reduce the intake of high-cholesterol and trans fats (commonly found in creamers, bu...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol Changes: Causes and Solutions for Your Health
Is It COVID-19 or a Cold? Understanding Symptoms in Children
COVID-19 Hello Doctor: My daughter, who is 10 years old, had a fever reaching 39 degrees Celsius (with slight headache) on December 10. On the morning of December 11, a rapid test was negative. After visiting the doctor, she was prescribed medication and her fever subsided, and t...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, with the recent drop in temperature, there has indeed been an increase in cases of respiratory viral infections. The existing home rapid tests for COVID-19 can be used to determine if there is an infection; however, most other pathogens do not have specific tests and are p...[Read More] Is It COVID-19 or a Cold? Understanding Symptoms in Children
Persistent Bruising After Injury: When to Seek Medical Help
Stasis of blood? Hello doctor, I was in a car accident at the end of September, and my left calf was crushed by a motorcycle, resulting in bruising. The bruising has improved but is not fully healed, and there is still a large area of light-colored bruising on my leg. When I use ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your ongoing bruising situation raises concerns about the possibility of fractures, ligament tears, or tendon ruptures. However, if you are still able to walk normally, the likelihood of a fracture is relatively low. It is more probable that you may have a ligament or tend...[Read More] Persistent Bruising After Injury: When to Seek Medical Help
Persistent Bruising After Injury: When to Seek Medical Help
Stagnant blood? Hello doctor, I was in a car accident at the end of September, and my left calf was crushed by a motorcycle, resulting in bruising. The bruising has improved but has not fully healed, and there is still a large area of light-colored bruising on my leg. When I appl...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your ongoing bruising raises concerns about the possibility of fractures, ligament tears, or tendon ruptures. However, if you are still able to walk normally, the likelihood of a fracture may be low. It is more probable that you are experiencing a ligament or tendon tear. ...[Read More] Persistent Bruising After Injury: When to Seek Medical Help
Do Pre-Marital Health Checks Review Your Medical History?
Will premarital health checks include a review of personal medical history? Will premarital health screenings check for past illnesses that have been cured? If so, will the examination cover the entire medical history from birth to the present, or just the last one or two years?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Pre-marital health examinations will gather information through interviews regarding both parties' family history, history of genetic diseases, and past medical history. Generally, it is necessary to provide health status from birth to the present. Even if a condition...[Read More] Do Pre-Marital Health Checks Review Your Medical History?
Which Specialist to See for Unexplained Breathing and Dizziness Issues?
I'm not sure which specialty to see? Hello Doctor, I have had the following symptoms since childhood: whenever it is too hot, stuffy, rainy, or in poorly ventilated indoor spaces with large crowds, I easily experience sudden shortness of breath, dizziness, and when mild, I t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort may be due to vasovagal syncope or situational syncope. It is usually advisable to avoid triggering situations, such as the ones you mentioned: excessive heat, stuffiness, rainy days, poorly ventilated indoor spaces, and crowded places. Anemia can also pres...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Unexplained Breathing and Dizziness Issues?