Understanding Medical Test Results: Reference Values and Hemolysis Explained
Some questions? Hello, doctor: We often undergo various health check-ups. For example, if a report shows a value of 47 and the reference range is >50, what does this reference value mean? Does it mean that only values greater than 50 are considered abnormal? Also, I have G6PD ...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Zhengyi, Hello, the reference values refer to the average concentration of liver enzymes in the blood of healthy adults without disease, which is normal for 95% of the population. Values exceeding this range may indicate hepatitis or other causes of elevated enzyme levels. ...[Read More] Understanding Medical Test Results: Reference Values and Hemolysis Explained
Understanding Night Sweats: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Night sweats issue? Doctor, I have a question. When I sleep at night, I suddenly sweat a lot from my forehead, and it stops as soon as I wipe it away. 1. Is this night sweats, or is it just regular sweating? (It feels a bit like the sweat that comes from having a cold.) 2. Do I n...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Hello, there are many causes of excessive sweating, including endocrine issues, medications, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, or fever. A proper diagnosis requires an in-person examination. I recommend that you visit the Family Medicine outpatient department ...[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Bruising After Blood Test: Is It Normal or Cause for Concern?
Four days after the blood test? I went to the hospital for a blood test on December 5th, and today, December 9th, I noticed an approximately 2 cm long bruise at the blood draw site. I also have small red spots on both arms and my neck, but they are not itchy. Could this be relate...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Dr. Gao Qingyun, Hello, the venipuncture site often experiences localized bruising due to insufficient pressure applied for hemostasis after blood draw. However, it is important to be cautious and consider whether this may be related to a hematological disorder. As for the ...[Read More] Bruising After Blood Test: Is It Normal or Cause for Concern?
Seeking Medical Advice: Which Specialty to Consult for Unexplained Symptoms?
If you're feeling unwell and are unsure which department to visit, I recommend starting with a general practitioner or family medicine physician. They can assess your symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist if necessary. Thank you? Hello: My mother, Chen Li-Man ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on the information in your letter, it is currently not possible to determine the cause of the symptoms presented or to make a diagnosis. You should have already arranged for several basic blood tests, and no specific abnormalities were found. As for the saliva analys...[Read More] Seeking Medical Advice: Which Specialty to Consult for Unexplained Symptoms?
Sudden Leg Weakness: Causes and Solutions for Family Medicine
Sudden weakness in the legs? In the morning, the legs are normal and move freely, but by afternoon or evening, they suddenly feel weak (without pain). What could be the issue with that part of the body and how can it be improved?
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Calven: Hello, there are many potential causes for muscle weakness, including issues related to the nervous system, endocrine system, or electrolyte imbalances. A thorough medical history and physical examination are necessary to identify the underlying cause. I recommend th...[Read More] Sudden Leg Weakness: Causes and Solutions for Family Medicine
Understanding Indirect Contact with Dog Saliva: Risks and Concerns
Indirect contact with dog saliva? Dear Doctor Gao, Thank you for your response to my previous question. It has put my mind at ease! I would like to ask you again: 1. If I indirectly came into contact with an object contaminated with dog saliva (approximately 5 minutes later), a...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Mrs. Lin, Hello. Based on your description, the likelihood of you being infected is low. However, if you still have significant concerns about rabies, I recommend that you visit the infectious disease outpatient clinic at the hospital to discuss with a specialist. Thank you...[Read More] Understanding Indirect Contact with Dog Saliva: Risks and Concerns
Understanding Rabies Transmission Risks: Airborne Exposure Concerns
Rabies issues? Dear Doctor, I have been confused about the possibility of indirect transmission of rabies. If the rabies virus (from a dog's nose or lips) is exposed to the air for about 5 minutes, does it still retain its infectious capability? In other words, is there any...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Mrs. Lin: Rabies is an infection caused by an RNA virus. Generally, viruses need to be inside cells to survive and cannot survive for long in the air, so the chance of you being indirectly infected is very low. Please do not worry too much. Wishing you peace and health. Sinc...[Read More] Understanding Rabies Transmission Risks: Airborne Exposure Concerns
Understanding Body Temperature: Is Yours Normal or a Cause for Concern?
Questions about body temperature? Hello Dr. Gao, I would like to ask you about some concerns regarding body temperature: 1. My body temperature is mostly between 37.2°C and 37.6°C (measured by ear). Is this normal? Is it considered elevated? 2. I have read many articles online st...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Xiao Ke, Hello. When measuring ear temperature, a fever is defined as a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or higher for children under two years old, 37.8 degrees Celsius or higher for children aged three to ten, and 37.6 degrees Celsius or higher for individuals aged eleve...[Read More] Understanding Body Temperature: Is Yours Normal or a Cause for Concern?
Understanding Mercury Poisoning from Eating Deep-Sea Fish
The issue of mercury poisoning? Hello: Recently, the Veterans General Hospital published a report indicating that frequent consumption of deep-sea fish may lead to mercury poisoning. I would like to ask: 1. What is the standard for "frequent consumption"? 2. Does taking...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Mark, Hello. In early November this year, Dr. Wu Ming-Ling from the Poison Control Center at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital raised concerns about heavy metal poisoning from deep-sea fish. The intention was to inform toxicologists about new diagnostic and treatment knowledge, ...[Read More] Understanding Mercury Poisoning from Eating Deep-Sea Fish
Rabies Risk After Cat Bite: Should You Get Vaccinated?
Rabies - Bite from a stray cat? Hello, Doctor. About two weeks ago, I discovered a feral kitten near my home. I attempted to move it outside, but while trying to catch it, I was scratched and bitten on my right middle finger, resulting in two wounds approximately 1.5 cm long. At ...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Mr. Lin, Hello, the rabies epidemic in the country has somewhat eased. Based on your description and the area you reside in, the likelihood of infection seems low. However, since there has been no further testing on the livestock (cats) you came into contact with, I cannot ...[Read More] Rabies Risk After Cat Bite: Should You Get Vaccinated?
Identifying Toxic Gas Inhalation Symptoms: Seizures and Heart Issues
Inhalation of toxic gases? I have been chronically exposed to a certain toxic gas, and every night I wake up with body spasms, unable to sleep, often accompanied by palpitations and arrhythmia. What toxic substance might I have inhaled?
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Mr. Chang: Hello, based on your description, it is not possible to determine which type of toxic exposure you are experiencing. Please discuss this with your factory's occupational physician, or consult with a physician at a medical center's occupational medicine or tox...[Read More] Identifying Toxic Gas Inhalation Symptoms: Seizures and Heart Issues
Understanding Eardrum Pulsations: When to See an ENT Specialist
There is a pulsating sound in the eardrum? Recently, I've been experiencing a loud pulsating sensation in my left eardrum that feels a bit frightening. It has been ongoing for 3 to 4 days. Should I see an otolaryngologist?
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Hello, based on your statement, I recommend that you visit an otolaryngology department for relevant examinations. Thank you. Wishing you safety and health. Department of Family Medicine, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Gao Qingyun.[Read More] Understanding Eardrum Pulsations: When to See an ENT Specialist
Understanding Brown and Yellow-Green Mucus: Causes and Concerns
Nasal mucus and phlegm often appear brown or yellow-green in color? Hello! I usually exercise regularly and stay hydrated, and my daily routine is quite normal. However, I often notice that my nasal mucus and phlegm are brown or yellow-green in color. What could be the issue? Tha...
Dr. Chen Zonglin Reply:
Based on the information you provided, the phlegm is often brown or yellow-green, which may indicate post-nasal drip. It is recommended that you seek further evaluation from a family medicine or otolaryngology specialist.[Read More] Understanding Brown and Yellow-Green Mucus: Causes and Concerns
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
Understanding Low Urine Specific Gravity: Causes and Concerns
Low urine specific gravity? Hello, the urinalysis report shows that all results are normal, but the urine specific gravity is low (1.003). What could be the reason for this? I had a concussion from a car accident three months ago (which has since healed); could this be related? T...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, internet user: The normal reference range for urine specific gravity in a urinalysis is 1.005 to 1.030. A low urine specific gravity indicates that there may be excess fluid in the body, the use of diuretics, or specific kidney/endocrine issues. To determine the underlying...[Read More] Understanding Low Urine Specific Gravity: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Thumb Swelling: Causes and Home Remedies
Finger swelling Hello, Doctor. Today while I was out for a walk, my right thumb suddenly became swollen. It has been swelling up without me realizing it, and I noticed a slight itch in the palm of my hand after walking for a short distance. However, this swelling in my thumb occu...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of joint or soft tissue pain or inflammation. The issues you mentioned need to be assessed through a physical examination to determine the underlying cause. I recommend consulting with a physician in the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology departmen...[Read More] Understanding Thumb Swelling: Causes and Home Remedies
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 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