Understanding the Discomfort Between Throat and Chest: When to Seek Help
There is a sensation of something stuck between the throat and chest? Hello, doctor: Recently, I visited an otolaryngologist due to a sensation of tightness and a feeling of something stuck between my throat and chest. After examination, I was diagnosed with throat inflammation a...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
If you are currently not experiencing any swallowing pain or chest pain, you may observe your condition. However, if you continue to have related symptoms or discomfort, please follow up with a gastroenterologist, as it is indeed possible that you have gastroesophageal reflux dis...[Read More] Understanding the Discomfort Between Throat and Chest: When to Seek Help
Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Concerns, and Remedies
I have been experiencing dizziness recently? Hello, doctor: Sometimes when I stand up from sitting, I suddenly feel dizzy (this has been going on for quite a while). Starting last Tuesday afternoon, I experienced sudden dizziness, but it seemed better the next day. I have a habit...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Standing up from a seated position may cause dizziness, which sounds like orthostatic hypotension. Helpful methods include avoiding rapid changes in posture, not sitting or standing for prolonged periods, and drinking water or eating something before getting up. ● There are art...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Concerns, and Remedies
Am I Anemic? Understanding Blood Test Results and Causes
Doctor, is this anemia? HCT (Hematocrit) value: 37.5% (Reference range: 37-47%) HGB (Hemoglobin) value: 12.8 g/dL (Reference range: 12-16 g/dL) MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) value: 30.7 pg (Reference range: 27-34 pg) MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) valu...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Except for a slightly low red blood cell count (the normal range for most people is above 4.2 million; yours is 4.17 million, which is just a little below), all other values are within the normal range. ● At this time, hemoglobin levels are normal, and the only issue is the sli...[Read More] Am I Anemic? Understanding Blood Test Results and Causes
How to Clear Phlegm When You Can't Cough It Up
Unable to expel phlegm? My family has told me that I snore while I am in deep sleep, but it's not the kind of snoring associated with sleep apnea. Instead, it sounds like my throat is blocked, and I feel like I want to cough up phlegm but can't. What are some methods to...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Check if you often have phlegm, smoke, have allergic conditions such as asthma or allergic rhinitis, or suffer from sinusitis. If phlegm occurs occasionally, medication can be used initially, but it is important to identify the underlying cause. You may visit a family medicine ...[Read More] How to Clear Phlegm When You Can't Cough It Up
Can Rabies Virus Infect Through Sweat or Bath Water?
Questions about rabies? Hello doctor, my friend was suddenly licked on the calf by a dog owned by someone else while exercising in the park (the area that was licked has no wounds). He immediately returned home to take a shower and clean himself. However, he has a scrape on his a...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● In theory, it is possible for rabies virus to enter the body through wounds when exposed to the saliva of an infected animal; however, there have been no reports of indigenous or imported rabies cases in Taiwan this year, so there is no need for concern (https://goo.gl/EDU8Wc)....[Read More] Can Rabies Virus Infect Through Sweat or Bath Water?
Understanding Blood Test Results: When to Seek Medical Advice
Blood Issues in Health Check Reports Hello Doctor, I have a hepatitis B carrier status and polycystic ovary syndrome. I underwent a health check in early June, and some results were flagged in red. The report shows: PLT (platelet count) 114, MPV (mean platelet volume) 10.4, PDW (...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
- Low platelet count may be caused by hepatitis B leading to splenomegaly, which consumes platelets. - An increased platelet distribution width is a nonspecific abnormality and does not require concern. - Mean Platelet Volume (MPV): A decrease in MPV may be associated with aplast...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is Dragon Fruit Causing Blood in Stool?
Gastrointestinal/defecation issues? I would like to consult a physician. Two days ago, I ate red dragon fruit, and today when I used the restroom, I noticed blood after having a bowel movement. There was no blood when I wiped, and the stool was of normal color; the red color seem...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Dragon fruit can cause stools to appear reddish, but it is difficult to definitively determine if it is blood; if this has not been a previous issue, it is advisable to monitor the situation first. ● If there are concerns, you can visit a family medicine or gastroenterology cli...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is Dragon Fruit Causing Blood in Stool?
Understanding Rabies Risks After a Dog Encounter: What You Need to Know
Rabies issues? On the 23rd of last month, I went to buy lunch, and when I was heading home, a large dog ran past and bumped into my right calf. At that moment, I didn't see any wounds. After getting home, I rinsed it with water. In the evening, I asked my dad if I should see...
Dr. Wu Fangcan Reply:
According to your statement: there was only a bump without any bite, and there have been no new cases reported near New Taipei City. Therefore, the likelihood of transmission is nearly zero. If you still have concerns, you may consult a family medicine physician nearby. Thank you...[Read More] Understanding Rabies Risks After a Dog Encounter: What You Need to Know
Understanding Complex Migraine Symptoms and Their Management
The chief complaint is migraine? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for writing this as I have multiple symptoms. My migraines are accompanied by tinnitus, and the pain can last for several days. Sometimes, I experience a heavy sensation in my head that causes it to droop forward. Occasi...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● There are many causes of headaches, with common types including migraines and tension-type headaches. Migraines are characterized by moderate to severe pain that can last from 4 to 72 hours, often unilateral, and may be accompanied by pulsating pain, nausea, vomiting, and exace...[Read More] Understanding Complex Migraine Symptoms and Their Management
Understanding Your Symptoms: Which Specialist to Consult for Unexplained Illness?
Family medicine issues? Hello Doctor: Since June 30th, I have been experiencing alternating sensations of cold and heat, feeling extremely uncomfortable in air conditioning, and sweating profusely. At times, I also feel a burning sensation in my arms and shoulders. I visited a lo...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Fluctuating temperatures can indeed be a sign of infection, but it is possible that the infectious disease specialist's examination did not reveal significant abnormalities at that time. ● Symptoms such as fever at night, palpitations, and sweating, in addition to the prev...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Which Specialist to Consult for Unexplained Illness?
Understanding Your Health Check Report: CT Findings and Liver Function Insights
Health Checkup Report Consultation Hello, Doctor. I recently checked my medical records from the National Health Insurance Administration and noticed that my previous examination included an abdominal CT scan. The uploaded medical report contains a section that states FINDINGS: 1...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● The results of the abdominal CT scan are difficult to interpret. If you have consumed certain health foods, nutritional supplements, calcium tablets, antacids, or anti-diarrheal medications, these could lead to similar findings. While there is a possibility of a small intestine...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: CT Findings and Liver Function Insights
Concerns About IV Injections: Addressing Your Anxieties
Concerns Regarding Injections 2 Dr. Chen, I apologize for bothering you again. I wanted to follow up on my previous question regarding intravenous injection (using a large-bore needle) directly into the blood vessel. Could this cause any issues? This has been causing me anxiety f...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● To refer to the previous article: "In conclusion, generally speaking, it is unlikely. In the case of injections, part of the injection is administered into the muscle or subcutaneously, not directly into the bloodstream. ● The needle is very fine, and the amount of cotton ...[Read More] Concerns About IV Injections: Addressing Your Anxieties
Concerns About Injection Safety: What Happens If Cotton Debris Enters the Needle?
Concerns about vaccinations? Hello Dr. Chen: I would like to ask, during an injection, if I wipe the area with an alcohol swab and then open the needle cap, I later noticed there was lint on the needle. Will this lint enter the bloodstream? If it does, what could happen? I have a...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● To conclude, generally speaking, it is unlikely. In the case of injections, they are typically administered into the muscle or subcutaneously, not directly into the bloodstream. ● The needle is very fine, and the amount of substance injected is also small. If, by chance, it is ...[Read More] Concerns About Injection Safety: What Happens If Cotton Debris Enters the Needle?
Understanding Hypertension: Managing Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels
Hypertension screening? Hello doctor, I'm 33 years old, 167 cm tall, and weigh 85 kg. Last year during my health check-up, my blood pressure was high at 145/92 and my heart rate was 88, which I think might have been due to nerves. Since I didn't feel any particular symp...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Normal blood pressure is defined as ≤120/80 mmHg; hypertension is defined as ≥140/90 mmHg. However, blood pressure can sometimes be elevated due to anxiety during a clinic visit, so it is best to measure blood pressure at home, which should be the primary reference. If home blo...[Read More] Understanding Hypertension: Managing Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels
Understanding Metabolism Changes and Dietary Concerns in Family Medicine
Metabolic changes and dietary concerns? Hello, doctor. Since 2015, I have gradually felt weaker than before, and I even experience a lack of libido. Recently, I discovered that I have been consistently under-consuming calories, often missing meals. My basal metabolic rate is appr...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● For your daily caloric needs, please refer to https://goo.gl/rk2xTw, https://goo.gl/Vzaj8g, https://goo.gl/XW8g79. Your weight is slightly above normal (BMI: 24.2), and you should aim to consume approximately 30 calories per kilogram. ● If you find it difficult to eat that much...[Read More] Understanding Metabolism Changes and Dietary Concerns in Family Medicine
Understanding TMJ Disorders: Tongue Pain and Related Symptoms
Temporomandibular joint, small white spots on the tongue, and pain when pressure is applied to the throat? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing issues with my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for a long time. Whenever I open my mouth slightly, there is a clicking sound that has pe...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● If your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is consistently making sounds and feels stiff, it may lead to joint wear. Please consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or an otolaryngologist at a major hospital. ● Small white spots on the tongue may simply be ulcers, which typically h...[Read More] Understanding TMJ Disorders: Tongue Pain and Related Symptoms
Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results: Next Steps
Health check-up issues Dear Doctor: Last week, I underwent blood tests (including general biochemistry and routine tests) and a routine urine test at a medical laboratory. The results showed one abnormal finding in both the blood and urine tests, while the others were normal. The...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Eosinophils may increase in response to infections, parasites, and allergies. Consider whether you have any allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis, or if you have pets at home. If none of these apply, there is generally no need for concern. You can follow up with blood tests in t...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results: Next Steps
Can I Get the Second MMR Vaccine Dose After 25 Days?
The MMR vaccine is administered in two doses, with the second dose typically given at least 28 days after the first dose? Hello Doctor: During the administration of the first dose, the physician mentioned that the second dose should be given one month apart. Since I can only atte...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Generally, the second dose should be administered at least 28 days apart; for example, the second dose of MMR can be shortened by four days at the minimum, but if it exceeds five days, that dose will be considered invalid. ● Given your situation, receiving the vaccine 25 days a...[Read More] Can I Get the Second MMR Vaccine Dose After 25 Days?
Pre-Marital Health Check: Which Family Medicine Services to Choose?
For premarital health check-ups, you should schedule an appointment with a family medicine or preventive medicine specialist? Hello, may I ask if all hospitals' family medicine departments offer premarital health check-up services? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
Hello, some counties and cities offer subsidies for "pre-pregnancy after marriage," with varying amounts depending on the local government. For example, in Taipei City, you can find more information here: https://goo.gl/rdF7pc. The Taoyuan Hospital Advanced Health Exami...[Read More] Pre-Marital Health Check: Which Family Medicine Services to Choose?
Dizziness When Standing After Sitting: Causes and Concerns
Feeling dizzy when standing up after sitting for a while? Hello, doctor. Recently, when I sit back in a chair (or lie down to watch something) and then stand up, I often experience a moment of dizziness and my vision goes black, but the symptoms disappear quickly. I used to have ...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
It sounds like you may be experiencing orthostatic hypotension. You can prepare a blood pressure monitor at home and measure your blood pressure while lying down; then, measure it again after suddenly standing up or sitting. If the systolic pressure drops by 15 mmHg, it could ind...[Read More] Dizziness When Standing After Sitting: Causes and Concerns