Understanding Your WBC Count: What Do Your Health Check Results Mean?
White blood cell count in health examinations? Dear Doctor, I had health check-up reports on May 3rd and August 6th, with white blood cell (WBC) counts of 5.65 and 2.2, respectively. Could you please help me understand this? Or could you suggest which department I should consult?
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you prepare a complete health examination report and consult at a family medicine clinic. If you experience symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or lymphadenopathy, it is advisable to seek treatment from an infectious disease specialist. Thank you fo...[Read More] Understanding Your WBC Count: What Do Your Health Check Results Mean?
Effective Strategies to Overcome Insomnia: A Family Medicine Perspective
Insomnia issues Hello Dr. Yeh, I have been unable to sleep at night for the past two weeks, only falling asleep around 4 AM, and then being woken up by my family around 9 AM. The only thing I consume during the day is iced tea from a breakfast shop, and I do not smoke or drink al...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, if the insomnia is recent, it should be possible to identify the triggering factors, which are usually caused by stress responses or emotional issues. Sometimes, it may have accumulated over a long period, and one might become accustomed to it wi...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Overcome Insomnia: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Unexplained Itching and Bruising: A Family Medicine Perspective
Why is this happening? Doctor: Let me show you my legs; they suddenly become itchy, and when I scratch them, they end up looking like this, and the bruising is getting worse. It didn't used to be like this! Besides my thighs, my left arm also has this issue, but I didn'...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Meow: 1. Common differential diagnoses for pruritus include urticaria, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis, xerotic dermatitis, fungal infections, dyshidrotic eczema, contact dermatitis, scabies, and others. It is also important to consider other sys...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Itching and Bruising: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Lower Back Pain and Urinary Symptoms: A Family Medicine Perspective
Lumbar issues? Hello, Doctor. On August 3rd, I experienced two drops of blood in my urine. Earlier, I had soreness near my lumbar spine close to the hip area upon waking up. The family medicine doctor tapped my back, and there was no pain. I was prescribed Uroprin for urinary pai...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Brian591014: 1. The differential diagnosis for hematuria commonly includes urinary tract inflammation or injury, urinary stones, urinary tract infection, renal inflammation, tumors of the urinary system, and coagulopathy, among others. 2. As for the differential diag...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain and Urinary Symptoms: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Your Discomfort: Which Specialist Should You See?
I'm not sure which specialty to see? Recently, around four or five in the afternoon, I've been experiencing some soreness on both sides below the rib cage (in the front of the body) and in the left lower back (in the back of the body). The discomfort is localized and do...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Natashe, In your recent correspondence, you mentioned experiencing multiple discomforts in your body around 4 to 5 PM. It is recommended that you visit the Family Medicine Department for a consultation. The physician will conduct a thorough history taking and physical e...[Read More] Understanding Your Discomfort: Which Specialist Should You See?
Understanding Neck Pain After a Stiff Neck: When to Seek Medical Help
Suspected cervical strain for several months? Hello, Doctor. Around March to April of this year, I had an overnight stay, and due to a pillow issue, I woke up with a stiff neck. Since then, my neck has not been able to crack, and I have been experiencing a slight pain. Attempting...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding this issue, it is recommended to first consult an orthopedic physician for evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain After a Stiff Neck: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Vascular Issues: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Please specify the department? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you about a 56-year-old male. A few years ago, he noticed a prominent blood vessel on one side of his forehead that did not go away. Recently, he has discovered that it has appeared on both sides. What could be the...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your concerns, it is advisable to consult a vascular surgeon to understand the symptoms related to the vascular protrusion. As for the sudden onset of tinnitus, increased frequency of headaches, and declining memory, it is recommended to seek evaluation from a ne...[Read More] Understanding Vascular Issues: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for My Leg Symptoms?
Which specialty should I see? Hello doctor, I noticed two swollen veins on the inner sides of both my feet yesterday, and they are painful when pressed. A few days ago, a prominent vein appeared on the top of my left foot (extending to my left big toe), which sometimes feels numb...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Wang, In your letter, you mentioned that the veins on the dorsum of your foot often hurt and feel numb, and that your left big toe experiences numbness and even has a blackened nail. Additionally, you have some systemic symptoms such as low blood pressure, unusual sensa...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for My Leg Symptoms?
Should I See an Eye Specialist or Another Doctor for My Vision Issues?
Should I see an ophthalmologist or another specialist? Hello Doctor, since mid-January of this year, I have occasionally experienced a darkened area in my visual field, as if something is floating and obstructing my line of sight. Sometimes, I also feel like I see stars or bright...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. J: In your letter, you mentioned that you see black objects floating in your vision, and that you have already consulted a doctor, undergone a dilated eye exam, and even had an MRI. I am curious about which specialties you have seen. Such symptoms could potentially ind...[Read More] Should I See an Eye Specialist or Another Doctor for My Vision Issues?
Understanding and Managing Persistent Lumbar Pain: A Patient's Guide
Lumbar pain with inability to exert force? I experience a feeling of pressure and pain in my coccyx area when standing up and exerting force with my legs, to the point where I cannot stand without using my hands to push against a table for support. I previously visited a neurosur...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Bing, In your letter, you mentioned that when you stand up and exert pressure on your feet, you feel a sense of pressure near the coccyx, with pain severe enough to prevent you from standing. You have undergone X-rays in the orthopedic department, which did not reveal a...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Persistent Lumbar Pain: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Throat Constriction and Cough: When to Seek Help
Throat constriction cough issue? Hello Doctor: I am 38 years old, a non-smoker and non-drinker. Recently, I have been experiencing occasional mild coughing, with the sensation originating in my throat near the neck and the inward concave area of the larynx. It feels like there is...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Mr. Xiao Guan, I understand that you have been experiencing occasional coughs recently. You have undergone thorough cardiac examinations, blood tests, and chest X-rays, all of which did not reveal any issues. Additionally, you have taken medication for gastroesophageal refl...[Read More] Understanding Throat Constriction and Cough: When to Seek Help
Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Persistent Dizziness?
Inquiry about medical specialties? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing unexplained dizziness for a long time, which lasts for several days each time. It does not seem to be related to my menstrual cycle, and my daily routine is relatively normal; I do not stay up late, and I d...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Mai, In your letter, you mentioned experiencing unexplained dizziness, mild anemia, bloating with loss of appetite, and frequent diarrhea. These symptoms may be interconnected or could stem from several different diagnoses, which require a physician to conduct a thoroug...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Persistent Dizziness?
Understanding Lumbar Pain: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions
Lumbar pain with inability to exert force? I experience a feeling of pressure and pain in my coccyx area when I stand up and exert force with my legs, to the point where I cannot stand without using my hands to push against a table for support. I previously visited a neurosurgeon...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Bing, In your letter, you mentioned that when you stand up and exert force on your legs, you feel a sense of pressure near the coccyx, with pain so severe that you cannot stand. You have undergone X-rays in the orthopedic department, which did not reveal any issues. Sin...[Read More] Understanding Lumbar Pain: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions
Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide to Family Medicine Insights
Many physical ailments? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I have been experiencing many bothersome symptoms in my body, and I have been unable to find relief due to the unknown causes. It started seven years ago with discomfort in my lumbar spine, which later progressed to swelling in both legs...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ah Sheng: 1. Complete right bundle branch block: For middle-aged individuals, this is generally not a major concern. If you have any questions, please consult a cardiologist. 2. Bilateral apical pleural thickening: This is a common finding on chest X-rays and is genera...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide to Family Medicine Insights
Are My Blood Test Results Normal? A Guide for Women
I would like to inquire if this value is normal? Hello, doctor. I recently had some tests done and would like to inquire if the following values are considered normal. I am a 26-year-old female. Thank you! 🙏 Red Blood Cells (RBC): 5.61 million/uL Hemoglobin (Hb): 14.4 g/dL H...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Yumei, Your complete blood count shows that your hemoglobin level is normal, but your mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is at the lower end of the normal range. Additionally, your red blood cell count (RBC) is elevated, which may indicate a predisposition to thalassemia or ...[Read More] Are My Blood Test Results Normal? A Guide for Women
Should I Check My MMR Vaccine Antibody Levels Before Traveling?
Should I check my MMR vaccine antibody levels? Hello, doctor. I will be traveling to Manila for about three days at the end of June this year. I know that there have been recent cases of measles in the Philippines. I received the MMR vaccine in 2000 and again in March 2004. How l...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. N: Since you received one dose of the MMR vaccine in 2000 and another in March 2004 (as per government policy at one year of age and before entering elementary school), these two doses are expected to provide protection for approximately fifteen years or more, although...[Read More] Should I Check My MMR Vaccine Antibody Levels Before Traveling?
Understanding Cozaar: Interactions with Viagra and Side Effects
Medication consultation I take blood pressure medication (Cozaar) daily. Is this medication classified as a nitrate? Can I also take Viagra? Will there be any interactions or side effects between the two medications? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Mr. Tianren: The antihypertensive medication COZAAR (Losartan) is not classified as a nitrate, and therefore does not interact with Viagra (Sildenafil). However, since you are a hypertension patient, it is crucial to be aware of the following contraindications when using Via...[Read More] Understanding Cozaar: Interactions with Viagra and Side Effects
How to Obtain a Disability Certificate for Polio-Related Conditions
Disability Assessment I was diagnosed with polio-related muscle atrophy at a very young age, around 2 years old. My legs are of different lengths, which affects my mobility to this day. I want to apply for a disability certificate, but I'm unsure which department can assist ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Mr. Tian Sheng: If you are suffering from muscle atrophy due to poliomyelitis resulting in limb length discrepancy, it is recommended to consult your original attending physician or specialists in rehabilitation medicine or pediatric neurology for the assessment application...[Read More] How to Obtain a Disability Certificate for Polio-Related Conditions
Understanding Recurrent Unexplained Fever in Older Adults
Recurrent unexplained fever Hello, Dr. Liao. My mother is 64 years old. Initially, she often felt fatigued and would become short of breath when climbing stairs, but she was fine walking on flat ground (even for 1-2 kilometers). Initially, the local clinic suspected a heart issue...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your question, the most common cause of fever is still infection. Other causes need to be investigated, such as autoimmune diseases and tumors. Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatm...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Unexplained Fever in Older Adults
Should You Worry About Rabies After a Bat Encounter?
The issue of rabies? Hello Dr. Liao, Five days ago, in the middle of the night, I woke up to use the bathroom and turned on the light, only to find a bat flying in my room (it seemed to be a small Eastern Asian house bat). I opened the window thinking it would fly out, but unexp...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, after being bitten by an animal carrying the rabies virus, seeking medical attention promptly is the appropriate time to receive post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies. Reminder: Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses...[Read More] Should You Worry About Rabies After a Bat Encounter?