Understanding Allergy Testing: Why Seafood Isn't Always the Culprit
Allergy Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent allergy testing (which included allergens such as oranges, almonds, brewer's yeast, and egg yolk). I have previously experienced allergic reactions to seafood and assumed I was allergic to it. However, the test resu...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. CoCo: Although allergen testing is frequently conducted, it often yields results that are difficult to explain. This is primarily because the tests typically use a limited selection of representative allergens and do not encompass all possible allergens. It is possible...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Testing: Why Seafood Isn't Always the Culprit
Understanding Toe Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Numbness and pain in the toes? I have been troubled by this issue for a long time. About 10 years ago, I started to notice a slight tingling and numbness in a small area at the front of both of my big toes, where they come together. Over time, the tingling and numbness have worse...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Ottoman, Regarding your question, there could be many potential issues. However, based on your medical history of herniated discs, it may be best to consult a neurologist first. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Sincerely, Dr. Tsai Meng-Ju Attending Physician, Family ...[Read More] Understanding Toe Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Uncontrollable Body Tremors: Causes and Solutions
The body may tremble? Why does my body sometimes tremble involuntarily? My hands and feet also shake, even when I'm not nervous. It feels like my hands tremble continuously when I raise them or just hold something. Why does this happen?
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello: Based on the described symptoms, it is not possible to determine which system is affected. It is recommended that you first visit a family medicine or neurology clinic for differential diagnosis. Thank you, Chen Meng-Kan.[Read More] Understanding Uncontrollable Body Tremors: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Unexplained Abdominal Pain in Diabetic Patients
Abnormal cutting pain from the skin to the muscle? Hello Doctor, I am consulting on behalf of my mother who is 65 years old and has diabetes and hypertension. For the past few months, she has been suffering from what she describes as cutting pain, which feels somewhat like being ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Regarding your mother's condition, it is indeed most likely explained by diabetic neuropathy. The most important treatment approach is to maintain good blood sugar control. Additionally, for medical consultation, you may consider endocrinology, neurology, or ...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Abdominal Pain in Diabetic Patients
Essential Guide to Health Checkups for New Employees in Family Medicine
Health check-up issues Hello, I would like to inquire about the general health check-up for new employees at a company. The items are as follows: 1. Should I schedule an appointment with a family medicine physician? 2. Is it necessary to make a reservation in advance, or can I ...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, if a general health examination is required for new employees at a company, here are the answers to your questions: 1. Is it necessary to see a family medicine doctor? No, it is not required. 2. Is an appointment needed in advance, or can I just register on the day of t...[Read More] Essential Guide to Health Checkups for New Employees in Family Medicine
Understanding Inner Thigh Pain and Swelling: Possible Causes and Solutions
There is a lump on the inner thigh? Hello Doctor: About 4 to 5 days ago, I woke up in the morning and suddenly felt pain in the inner side of my left thigh. At first, I thought it was a strain or that I had bumped into something, so I didn't pay much attention. However, I no...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Joe: Based on your symptoms, the most likely condition that must be ruled out immediately is cellulitis, with a severe possibility of necrotizing fasciitis. In serious cases, this could even lead to sepsis, posing a risk to life. Therefore, it is crucial not to delay you...[Read More] Understanding Inner Thigh Pain and Swelling: Possible Causes and Solutions
Health Risks of Office Printers: Can They Cause Lung Cancer?
The Health Effects of Printers Hello, Doctor: I am an office worker, and there is a medium-sized printer next to my desk that continuously prints documents from morning until night. I often feel hot air coming from the machine, and there is a strong odor of toner. I have heard th...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Steve, Regarding your question, it is indeed a frequently discussed topic online, and there have been some studies that raise such concerns. The summarized information primarily relates to the toner and ozone produced by laser printers. However, after reviewing numerous...[Read More] Health Risks of Office Printers: Can They Cause Lung Cancer?
Understanding Right Shoulder Blade Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Pain in the right scapula? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have been experiencing pain in the right side of my back near the scapula for over two months. I have seen an orthopedic doctor and undergone physical therapy, but there has been no improvement. Often, an unexpected movement causes a &...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Kelly, Based on the symptoms you provided, it is almost certain that there is an issue related to the musculoskeletal system, specifically concerning the shoulder joint. If you wish to seek medical attention, you should consult a specialist in shoulder joint issues, typ...[Read More] Understanding Right Shoulder Blade Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Struggling with Sleep and Bloating: A Family Medicine Perspective
Hello, Dr. Lai! Dr. Lai: I haven't been sleeping well for the past few days. I can't seem to fall asleep, so I thought it might be too hot and tried using the air conditioning, but it didn't help. I lie down at midnight and it takes me 1 to 2 hours to fall asleep, ...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: Both physical and psychological issues can lead to sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal discomfort may also affect sleep. The concerns raised by the online user cannot be fully understood from the message alone, so it is recommended to consult a family medicine physici...[Read More] Struggling with Sleep and Bloating: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Your Child's Head Tilt: When to See a Doctor
The head is often tilted? My son is 10 years old and his head is almost always tilted to one side. I'm not sure why. When he was younger, we took him to see a doctor, but they couldn't determine the cause. If we need to see a doctor, which specialty should we consult?
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Hello Miss Boy: Regarding your question, it is recommended to start with a pediatrician. If possible, seeing a pediatric neurologist (usually larger hospitals have more specialized departments) would be even better. It's important to first confirm whether there is indeed a p...[Read More] Understanding Your Child's Head Tilt: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Dizziness and Weakness: Essential Tests for Diagnosis
Dizziness and weakness in the limbs? Hello, I am asking on behalf of my uncle, as he has a low IQ. He weighs over 100 kilograms and has recently experienced occasional dizziness and weakness in his limbs for about a month. He has been taken to the emergency room multiple times, b...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan Reply:
Many diseases can cause dizziness and weakness in the limbs. It is recommended to first visit a family medicine clinic for evaluation. The physician will conduct necessary examinations based on the condition. If the family medicine clinic is unable to provide a diagnosis, the phy...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Weakness: Essential Tests for Diagnosis
Effective Strategies to Reduce Belly Fat: Expert Tips
How to effectively lose belly fat? Hello Dr. Tsai, I noticed in the mirror over the past few days that the area below my navel is protruding. Is this what is referred to as the lower abdomen? How can I slim it down? I often eat until I'm full and sit in front of the computer...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. JJ, Each individual's accumulation of body fat varies. If you notice that your lower abdomen is protruding due to fat, please be cautious about the issue of central obesity. The standards for central obesity in Taiwan are a waist circumference of greater than 80 cm...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Reduce Belly Fat: Expert Tips
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options and Chronic Disease Status
Hyperthyroidism Is there a doctor at Taoyuan General Hospital who specializes in treating hyperthyroidism? Additionally, is hyperthyroidism considered a chronic disease? After the consultation, can I request the doctor to issue a prescription for a chronic disease? Thank you!
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. WEN, Hello, the physicians in the Endocrinology Department of our hospital are all capable of addressing issues related to hyperthyroidism and are experts in this area. Hyperthyroidism is a chronic condition, and once the disease is stabilized, it is possible to conside...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options and Chronic Disease Status
Managing Premature Gray Hair: Healthier Alternatives to Dyeing
Juvenile Vitiligo I started having gray hair since the fifth grade, and the situation hasn't changed throughout college. What treatment options are available? I know that dyeing my hair is not good for my health; what should I do? Please help me.
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Miss, Regarding your concern, I would like to know if you have noticed an increase in your gray hair. Gray hair is caused by a decrease in the function of melanocytes in the hair follicle, and there are many reasons for this. It could be genetic, or it may result from immun...[Read More] Managing Premature Gray Hair: Healthier Alternatives to Dyeing
Understanding Dizziness: Potential Causes and Concerns After Head Injury
Dizziness In the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced dizziness, cold sweats, and significant discomfort in my body, which usually takes about an hour to recover from. Could this indicate a problem with my brain? I had a car accident around the age of 17 where I...
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it may still be difficult to determine which organ is causing your issue. I would first recommend that you document the characteristics of your dizziness episodes (for example, whether you experience a spinning sensation or if your vision goes da...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Potential Causes and Concerns After Head Injury
Understanding Facial Muscle Pain and Headaches: Causes and Solutions
Facial muscle soreness and headache? Hello, Doctor: I have been experiencing facial pain for nearly two weeks, and I can feel what seems to be two elongated structures near my ear. I'm not sure if they are muscles or nerves, but they are noticeably swollen and extend from ne...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, Regarding the issue mentioned in your letter, it sounds like the lesion is located between the ear and the neck, and there was a prior occurrence of pain in the same side teeth. Since I cannot perform a visual or physical examination of your lesion, I can only make a rou...[Read More] Understanding Facial Muscle Pain and Headaches: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Peritoneal Lymphatic Calcification: Risks and Treatment Options
Abdominal lymphatic calcification Will lymphatic calcification in the abdominal cavity lead to other pathological changes? What should be noted? Will it continue to enlarge? I occasionally experience cramping pain in my lower left abdomen, and my doctor said it is not caused by l...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen, Regarding your question, I would like to know how the calcification in your abdominal lymph nodes was diagnosed. If it was diagnosed pathologically (through tissue biopsy), it can determine whether it is malignant. If it was observed through imaging studies, regul...[Read More] Understanding Peritoneal Lymphatic Calcification: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: When to Seek Help
Easily drowsy and unable to resist falling asleep? Hello Doctor: Since elementary school, I have often experienced drowsiness during class. After being disciplined by my teacher, my mother took me to a family medicine clinic, where the doctor diagnosed me with "laziness"...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, I apologize for not being able to respond to your question in a timely manner due to my absence from the country. Your issue seems to be related to a sleep disorder, which is affecting your ability to concentrate. Many hospitals now have sleep centers that specialize in ad...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: When to Seek Help
Understanding Abnormal Lab Results: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Health check-up issues Hello, Director: I previously underwent a health check at your hospital and have two questions: (1) The data indicated one abnormal result, which is low phosphorus levels in my blood (the reference lower limit is 27, and my result is 26). Which department s...
Dr. Huang Shaoxin Reply:
Dear Mr. Yuan, Hello. I have received your inquiry, and here are my responses: Regarding your health check at our hospital, the first issue is that your phosphorus level is slightly low; this can be monitored for the time being. The second issue is that your lymphocyte percent...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Lab Results: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Understanding Urine and Stool Test Results: When to See a Family Doctor
Health check report: Urine and stool issues? Recently, I underwent a health check-up due to work requirements, and the test results showed positive reactions for proteinuria and fecal occult blood. Should I see a family medicine doctor, or which specialist should I consult? I hav...
Dr. Chen Yuchao Reply:
The health check report shows positive reactions for proteinuria and fecal occult blood. Please schedule a follow-up examination and treatment with a family medicine physician.[Read More] Understanding Urine and Stool Test Results: When to See a Family Doctor