Understanding Irregular Periods: Hormonal Imbalances and Health Risks
Menstruation is always irregular? Hello, doctor: My menstruation is often delayed by 2 to 3 months. I went to Mackay Memorial Hospital for an examination, and they said that my hormone secretion is insufficient, which is causing my missed periods. They prescribed hormone medicati...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Pony, Regarding your question, it pertains to secondary amenorrhea. If it has been confirmed that the cause is due to hormonal deficiency, hormone replacement therapy would be a reasonable option. For instance, if there is an early deficiency in female hormones, supplem...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Periods: Hormonal Imbalances and Health Risks
Which Specialist to See for Tongue Pain and White Spots?
Which specialty should I see? If you have pain on the side of your tongue accompanied by white spots, you should see a dentist or an oral medicine specialist.
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Chiu Hsiao-Chen, Regarding your issue, it may be a small ulcer in the oral cavity. However, I recommend that you first visit a family medicine or otolaryngology clinic for a consultation. It is better to confirm the diagnosis before drawing any conclusions. Wishing you...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Tongue Pain and White Spots?
Understanding Persistent Left Rib Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
excuse me? The pain is located about two fingerbreadths below the V-shaped area of the left rib cage. I have been experiencing this pain frequently for the past six months, especially in the morning when I wake up, and it is quite severe. I don't believe it is related to hun...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Dr. Ito, Regarding your question, the stomach is indeed located just below the left rib cage. Additionally, pain in the V-shaped area below the sternum may correspond to the position of the duodenum. Symptoms of ulcerative diseases typically worsen when hungry and may also ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Left Rib Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a slight bloating and pain in the lower abdomen? Hello Doctor: I am 156 cm tall and weigh 63 kg, which I believe is related to obesity. I often feel very tired and drowsy. Since gaining weight, I have frequently experienced dizziness and suspect that I might have fatty l...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: Your letter mentions several issues, including easy fatigue and drowsiness, dizziness, changes in bowel habits, and lower abdominal cramping. Since each individual's constitution is different, the causes of these symptoms can be quite diverse. It is recommended that y...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Cholesterol Levels: Insights for Patients with Hyperthyroidism
About cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I am currently undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism and am in the medication reduction phase. My physical condition has mostly returned to normal. However, due to the medication, I have gained about two to three kilograms compared to before t...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, In your letter, you mentioned the issue of elevated total cholesterol and triglycerides. The normal total cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL, and triglycerides should be below 150 mg/dL. While your levels are indeed elevated, it is important to also consider high-densi...[Read More] Managing Cholesterol Levels: Insights for Patients with Hyperthyroidism
Coping with Sudden Anxiety: When to Seek Medical Help
Sudden feelings of frustration or agitation? I've been feeling really down lately. Sometimes, while I'm working or doing certain tasks, I suddenly experience anxiety or frustration, and there are times when I feel like crying. What should I do about this? When I'm ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Hello, sir: Regarding your concerns, the likelihood of depression is significant. I recommend that you seek consultation from a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic medicine clinic. Alternatively, you can also visit a family medicine department. In any case, it is best to intervene ea...[Read More] Coping with Sudden Anxiety: When to Seek Medical Help
Should I See a Doctor? Navigating Multiple Health Concerns
Should I seek medical attention? Which specialty should I consult? Hello, Doctor: I have some questions I would like to consult you about. 1. Menstrual irregularities. My symptoms include periods that last over a week each time. The longest has been two to three months, with va...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Hsing, Your concerns can generally be categorized into several areas: 1. Menstrual Issues: It is advisable to consult a gynecologist to rule out any structural problems (such as tumors or endometriosis). Additionally, your dizziness and shortness of breath may be relat...[Read More] Should I See a Doctor? Navigating Multiple Health Concerns
Understanding Back Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
The issue of back pain? Hello Doctor: My mother has been experiencing pain in her left back, approximately five centimeters away from her bra clasp. I have noticed that the painful area is red, but there are no signs of bruising or injury. What could be the cause of this? If she ...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, localized inflammation or skin issues are possible. It is recommended to consult a family medicine physician for diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Lai Jun-long from Keelung Hospital is a good option.[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Your 15-Year-Old's Digestive Issues: Which Specialist to See?
Which department should I see? My daughter is 15 years old and has a habit of constipation. She has been experiencing bright red blood in her stool for several months. About two months ago, the bleeding did not occur at the anus; it resembled menstrual blood and had clots, but it...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. ABC, Regarding your inquiry, there is indeed a concern. It would be advisable to consider consulting either a colorectal surgeon or an obstetrician-gynecologist. Based on the condition you have described, there is a higher likelihood that the former may be more relevant...[Read More] Understanding Your 15-Year-Old's Digestive Issues: Which Specialist to See?
Understanding Abnormal RBC Counts and Abdominal Pain After Appendicitis
Abnormal red blood cell count & peritonitis I recently received my health check report, and my red blood cell values are abnormal. My red blood cell count (RBC count) is 5.34 (H), with a reference range of 3.9-5 x 10^6/µL. My mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 66.8 (L), with a ...
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello, based on the results of your CBC, it seems you were correct in suspecting thalassemia. Further confirmation requires DNA testing or electrophoresis, which can be done at a family medicine clinic for additional blood tests. As for the causes of dizziness, there are many pos...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal RBC Counts and Abdominal Pain After Appendicitis
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
There is a foreign object growing on the neck? I discovered an abnormal growth on my neck a year ago. I would like to know which department I should visit at your hospital.
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, it's difficult to determine based on this description. Please first schedule an appointment with a family medicine physician.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Understanding Mild Proteinuria: Causes and Health Implications
Mild proteinuria Hello doctor, I usually consume high-protein drinks, and recently when I went to the hospital for a urine test, the doctor mentioned that I have mild proteinuria. Will this cause any health issues? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Student Chen, The glomeruli in the human body function like a sieve. Under normal circumstances, most proteins do not pass through when blood flows through them. However, factors such as exercise and stress can cause some proteins to leak through, and consuming excessive am...[Read More] Understanding Mild Proteinuria: Causes and Health Implications
Managing Oral Herpes Zoster in Children: Pain Relief and Treatment Options
Oral herpes simplex virus Hello Dr. Tsai, My eldest son is 12 years old. He received the varicella vaccine late in childhood, has had shingles, experienced issues with the trigeminal nerve, and almost developed cellulitis from dental cavities that required root canal treatment. ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Kenny, Regarding your question, it is indeed possible that the herpes virus is involved; however, it is rare to hear of such frequent occurrences. Additionally, the herpes virus typically affects the lips, so isolated involvement of the tongue is less common. It would b...[Read More] Managing Oral Herpes Zoster in Children: Pain Relief and Treatment Options
Is a Slightly Elevated ALT Level a Sign of Liver Dysfunction?
Liver function Hello, doctor. I recently had a blood test and found that my ALT (SGPT) level is 71, while the normal range is up to 41, so it's only slightly elevated. I would like to ask if this is considered liver dysfunction. Thank you for taking the time to answer!
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan Reply:
Your current condition is indeed what is commonly referred to as abnormal liver function, which is considered by doctors to be liver inflammation. It is recommended that you consult a family medicine specialist or a gastroenterologist to determine the underlying cause.[Read More] Is a Slightly Elevated ALT Level a Sign of Liver Dysfunction?
Understanding Chest Tightness and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Help
Chest tightness and headache? Hello Doctor: I often feel a tightness in my chest, and sometimes it feels as if a heavy object is pressing down on me, making it difficult to breathe. I also experience dizziness and chest pain, and on several occasions, the pain in my chest seems t...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Xingyue, Regarding your question, there could be many possible reasons. Since there are several inquiries that need to be addressed, I recommend that you first visit the Family Medicine department where a physician can ask you detailed questions. Wishing you peace and...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings and High Cholesterol Levels
Unable to measure blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels? Yesterday, I went to donate blood, but they couldn't measure my blood pressure twice. I've had similar situations once or twice before. The nurse said it was due to low blood pressure, but when I measure ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Wu, Regarding your inquiry about the inability to measure blood pressure, there are several external factors or issues with the equipment that can contribute to this problem. For instance, a small-sized subject using an inappropriate cuff, wearing clothing that is too t...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings and High Cholesterol Levels
Which Specialist to Consult for Stomach Pain and Discomfort?
excuse me? It seems like I have discomfort and pain in my stomach. I'm not sure which specialty to consult.
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello: You can first visit a family medicine clinic to determine the issue causing your discomfort, and then your family physician can arrange for further evaluation as needed. Thank you.[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Stomach Pain and Discomfort?
Why Am I Not Sweating? Understanding Heat Intolerance and Its Causes
Heat intolerance without sweating? When I go out to eat with friends, I see them sweating profusely, while I do not sweat at all. It's not that I'm not hot; rather, I am more sensitive to heat. I would like to ask the doctor which specialty I should consult. Why do I no...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello: In your message, you mentioned that you have difficulty sweating and are concerned about heat intolerance. It is recommended that you visit a family medicine or general internal medicine clinic for further evaluation. The physician will assess your concerns based on your m...[Read More] Why Am I Not Sweating? Understanding Heat Intolerance and Its Causes
Do You Need to Remove Anal Polyps? Understanding Treatment and Differences from Hemorrhoids
Anal polyps Do anal polyps need to be removed? How are they removed? What is the difference between hemorrhoids and polyps? Please reply. Thank you.
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Kelly, Regarding your question, anal polyps have the potential to undergo malignant transformation; therefore, it is generally recommended to remove them and perform a pathological examination to determine their nature. The simplest method of removal is through direct e...[Read More] Do You Need to Remove Anal Polyps? Understanding Treatment and Differences from Hemorrhoids
Why Do I Feel Nauseous While Showering and Brushing My Teeth?
excuse me? I would like to ask why I feel nauseous while taking a shower. I feel sick, have a cough with phlegm, and then feel like vomiting. I also experience this when brushing my teeth. What could be the problem?
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear user, You mentioned experiencing nausea, coughing up phlegm, and feeling like vomiting while showering and brushing your teeth. Since your description is not very specific, I recommend visiting a family medicine clinic. The physician will assess your symptoms, medical hist...[Read More] Why Do I Feel Nauseous While Showering and Brushing My Teeth?