Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to See a Doctor?
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English I have recently been experiencing a heavy sensation in my left chest (near the heart) and sometimes feel my heart racing, along with a bit of shortness of breath. I have to slowly adjust my breathing to reliev...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello, Ms. Tsai. The areas and organs you mentioned are generally correct. The heart is located in the left side of the thoracic cavity, which contains important organs such as the lungs and heart. Therefore, when experiencing chest pain, the primary specialties to consult are pu...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to See a Doctor?
Unsure Which Specialist to See for Unusual Symptoms? Here's Guidance
I am feeling unwell and I'm not sure which department to consult. I would like to inquire about referral options? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing the following symptoms and would like to know which specialty I should consult for an examination. 1. Smelling...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Wei Wei, Hello, I recommend that you first visit a family medicine department for diagnosis and discussion with a physician, and I suggest a referral to other specialty care. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Gao Qingyun Attending Physician, Family Medici...[Read More] Unsure Which Specialist to See for Unusual Symptoms? Here's Guidance
Effective Ways to Slim Your Face: Tips for Weight Management
Weight issues Hello: I am 167 cm tall and weigh 65 kg. I feel that my face is quite chubby, which bothers me a lot. I would like to know if there are any ways to slim down my face.
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear [Name], Regarding the facial edema, it is essential to evaluate for any underlying systemic diseases. I recommend discussing this with a family medicine physician. Once systemic diseases are ruled out, you may consider weight loss. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely...[Read More] Effective Ways to Slim Your Face: Tips for Weight Management
Understanding Weight Loss: Is It Physical or Mental Health Issues?
I can't distinguish whether it's a physiological issue or depression-related anxiety? Hello, doctor. I am an 18-year-old college student. Over the past two years, I have lost about 10 kilograms, but I did not intentionally lose weight; I just feel that my appetite is no...
Dr. Chen Zonglin Reply:
There are many reasons for weight loss. You may start by keeping a food diary for a period of time and then bring your previous medical reports to the school health office to consult with the school physician. If there is no school physician available, you can also visit a nearby...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Is It Physical or Mental Health Issues?
Can Rabies Be Transmitted Through Dog Sneezes?
Rabies is not transmitted through respiratory droplets? Dear Dr. Gao, I have a question regarding a dog that was being transported by its owner on a motorcycle. As the motorcycle passed by me, the dog sneezed (the dog was standing on the back of the motorcycle seat, approximatel...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Sally, There is no need to worry excessively; the factors that determine the risk of infection depend on the outbreak area, the vaccination status of the dogs, and the transmission routes. It cannot be generalized, but your risk of infection should be quite low. If you stil...[Read More] Can Rabies Be Transmitted Through Dog Sneezes?
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?
Understanding Your Hepatitis B and C Test Results: What They Mean for You
Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my recent blood test results for hepatitis B and C. The results are as follows: HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen) - Negative (0.790), HBsAb (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody) - Positive (132.3), and HCV-Ab (Hepat...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, In response to your question, your blood test results indicate that you are not a carrier of Hepatitis B (a carrier is defined as someone who tests positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen) and that you have developed antibodies (positive for Hepatitis B surface antibodi...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B and C Test Results: What They Mean for You
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Dosage, Timing, and Antibody Levels
Hepatitis B vaccination administration Recently, I had a self-paid blood test for hepatitis B antibody levels, and the report indicated that a level of 10 or above is required to have antibodies. My level is only 9, so I would like to know if I need to receive the vaccine. Do cur...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: The protective effect of the hepatitis B vaccine does indeed diminish over time. In the case of newborns who receive three doses of the vaccine, some children may test negative for hepatitis B surface antibodies around the age of ten and will require a booster shot. If you...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Dosage, Timing, and Antibody Levels
Understanding Black Spots on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Small black spots on the tongue? Hello Doctor: I found a small black bump on my tongue that feels a bit strange. At first, I thought it was something stuck to it from eating, but I can't get it off. I tried to pull it off, but it seems to be growing on the surface and it hur...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, please consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
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
Strange Sensations During Bowel Movements: Is It Normal?
Strange sensations during bowel movements? Experiencing tingling sensations in the face and head before bowel movements, which resolves afterward, can be a normal physiological response for some individuals. This sensation is often related to the autonomic nervous system's r...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, there is currently no scientific evidence linking hypertension to this matter. I apologize for not being able to resolve your confusion and suggest that you continue to observe the situation with Changhua Hospital. We care about you.[Read More] Strange Sensations During Bowel Movements: Is It Normal?
Optimizing Sleep: Is Polyphasic Sleep Safe for High School Students?
How to Sleep Better Hello, I would like to ask about the polyphasic sleep method mentioned in the book "The Polyphasic Sleep Bible," which involves sleeping for two hours a day (essentially six times a day in four-hour cycles, with each sleep period lasting twenty minut...
Dr. Chen Zonglin Reply:
Hello: Currently, sleep medicine does not have a definitive stance on the method referred to as the "Bible of Body Calibration." One thing that can be confirmed is that the required sleep duration and methods vary for each individual. Everyone can learn from others'...[Read More] Optimizing Sleep: Is Polyphasic Sleep Safe for High School Students?
Can You Get HIV from Smoking After Friends Didn't Wash Hands?
Blood donation issues I have a question. Three of my friends didn't wash their hands after urinating, and they offered me a cigarette, which I smoked. I'm a girl. Is there a risk of contracting HIV from this? Should I get tested? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear user, Thank you for your message regarding your concerns about HIV infection. The primary modes of transmission for the HIV virus are through sexual contact, blood, or vertical transmission from mother to child. Sexual transmission mainly occurs through unprotected sexual i...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Smoking After Friends Didn't Wash Hands?
Understanding Head Discomfort: Sleep Issues, Anxiety, and Solutions
Head discomfort? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. I am experiencing insomnia and discomfort in my head during the day. Sometimes I feel sharp pains in various areas inside my head, which makes me feel like my energy is gradually depleting. I suspec...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, I would first recommend that you consult a neurologist for further evaluation. Additionally, since you mentioned issues related to auditory hallucinations and stress, it would be advisable to seek assessment and treatment from a psychiatrist or a me...[Read More] Understanding Head Discomfort: Sleep Issues, Anxiety, and Solutions
Understanding Hepatitis Testing: Key Differences and Vaccine Antibody Longevity
Hepatitis screening Hello: 1. Why are surface antigens and surface antibodies tested for hepatitis B, while only antibodies are tested for hepatitis A and C? 2. Are the antibodies produced after receiving the hepatitis vaccine permanent or do they have a limited duration? Tha...
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
1. Hepatitis B is the most well-studied and fortunately has several inexpensive and accurate assays available, allowing for the detection of both antigens and antibodies. Currently, ideal testing reagents for Hepatitis A and C have not yet been developed. 2. In principle, antibod...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis Testing: Key Differences and Vaccine Antibody Longevity
Understanding Limb Edema: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Peripheral edema I have been experiencing erysipelas in my left foot, which sometimes causes pain, prompting me to take anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by the hospital. When the pain is more severe, I also receive anti-inflammatory injections, which provide some relief. T...
Dr. Chen Zonglin Reply:
In assessing edema, in addition to the commonly known evaluation of kidney function, it may also be necessary to assess liver function. Furthermore, some cases may involve issues related to blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. As mentioned in your text, it is difficult to assist y...[Read More] Understanding Limb Edema: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Red Rash on Both Sides of Nose: Contact Dermatitis or Lupus?
Erythema on both sides of the nasal bridge? Hello, doctor. I've had this symptom for five days! I have red patches on both sides of my nose that look like sunburn. I first noticed it when my cheeks would sting and turn red after washing my face and applying moisturizer. Over...
Dr. Hong Jianfeng Reply:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the only autoimmune disease that commonly affects young women. The characteristic rash is typically shaped like a butterfly, covering the cheeks and nose. Individuals may have a history of other immune-related conditions during childhood. Due...[Read More] Red Rash on Both Sides of Nose: Contact Dermatitis or Lupus?
Do Routine Blood Tests Include Syphilis and Hepatitis B Screening?
Health check-up issues Does the blood test at the hospital include testing for syphilis and hepatitis B surface antigen antibodies?
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
The health check-up items are designated by the public. The cost for syphilis testing is 70 NTD, the cost for Hepatitis B antigen is 160 NTD, and the cost for Hepatitis B antibody is 200 NTD.[Read More] Do Routine Blood Tests Include Syphilis and Hepatitis B Screening?
Understanding Red Spots on Skin: Causes and Concerns Explained
There are small red spots on the body? Hello, I occasionally have small red spots on my body that resemble moles. They are not itchy or painful, and they do not appear to be formed on the surface of the skin, so I suspect they may be caused internally. This condition has persiste...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan Reply:
Hello: Please schedule an appointment with the dermatology clinic.[Read More] Understanding Red Spots on Skin: Causes and Concerns Explained
What is the Normal Body Temperature Range for Adults?
The normal body temperature for humans is typically around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius), although it can vary slightly from person to person and can range from about 97°F (36.1°C Hello, doctor. I would like to ask what the normal temperature range for the human bo...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: The measured body temperature can vary depending on the location. Generally, axillary temperature is lower than ear, oral, and rectal temperatures. A temperature of 37.0°C or higher is considered a fever. Since your three axillary temperature readings exceeded 37.0°C, it i...[Read More] What is the Normal Body Temperature Range for Adults?