Understanding Complex Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?
Disease? Problem Description: My mother is in her fifties and has recently been experiencing frequent discomfort and pain. Her symptoms are somewhat complex, and we are unsure which part of her body may be problematic. We would like to inquire about which specialty she should con...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
It is recommended to first visit a family medicine physician for evaluation and assessment, and then determine the subsequent treatment plan based on the physician's advice.[Read More] Understanding Complex Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?
Understanding Low Potassium Levels: A Guide for Patients on Diuretics
Hypokalemia Dr. Tsai is very grateful for your response. My serum potassium level is 2.7 (which is still acceptable, right?). I have been taking diuretics because I have very little urine output on a regular basis, and if I don't take them, I experience eyelid swelling and c...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Your potassium levels are low, and your weight is also underweight. It is recommended that you consult with a family medicine physician for evaluation and examination.[Read More] Understanding Low Potassium Levels: A Guide for Patients on Diuretics
Do You Need Treatment for Fatty Liver or Just Diet and Exercise?
Fatty liver disease Is treatment necessary for my 50-year-old family member who has been diagnosed with fatty liver disease, or is exercise and weight loss sufficient?
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello, Lai. Blood tests alone cannot diagnose fatty liver; this diagnosis is usually made through abdominal ultrasound. Common causes include obesity, hyperlipidemia, and alcohol consumption. Treatment methods include abstaining from alcohol, managing hyperlipidemia, and engaging...[Read More] Do You Need Treatment for Fatty Liver or Just Diet and Exercise?
Medication Switch Before Pregnancy: Family Medicine or OB-GYN?
Medication changes before pregnancy? Hello, Doctor: I have a problem with mitral valve prolapse, and the medication I am currently taking is classified as Category C. I plan to start trying to conceive at the end of the year and would like to find a safer alternative medication. ...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello, please consult with an obstetrician and a cardiologist to determine if it is suitable for you to become pregnant, as well as whether to continue or change your medication. Wishing you success in your endeavors. Xu Li-an 9509121123 Hualien Hospital Family Medicine Departmen...[Read More] Medication Switch Before Pregnancy: Family Medicine or OB-GYN?
Can G6PD Patients Safely Use Insecticides and Facial Cleansers?
Pesticide Can patients with G6PD deficiency be exposed to insecticides? Is it safe for patients with G6PD deficiency to use facial cleansers?
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello, Lai. Pesticides are substances that should not be inhaled by anyone, especially individuals with G6PD deficiency. It's not just about triggering a reaction; there are concerns about carcinogenicity. As for facial cleansers, as long as they are certified and legal prod...[Read More] Can G6PD Patients Safely Use Insecticides and Facial Cleansers?
Why Do Bruises Appear Days After Blood Draw? Understanding the Causes
Bruising may appear a few days after a blood draw? Hello, Doctor: Three days ago, our company conducted a health check-up, which required blood draw. After I had my blood drawn, I followed the nurse's instructions and did not rub the puncture site; I only applied pressure fo...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Jackal, it is likely that you are experiencing a subcutaneous hemorrhage due to microvascular rupture. If the bruise persists for more than a week or expands, please visit a hospital's family medicine or hematology department for an examination. Wishing you a speedy rec...[Read More] Why Do Bruises Appear Days After Blood Draw? Understanding the Causes
Confused About Which Specialist to See for Sleep Disruptions?
I'm not sure which specialty I should see? Hello Doctor, I have something that troubles me. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and completely lose control of my thoughts. My mind keeps racing with terms related to my work report from the morning. Normally, my thi...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello Silvia, Many people experience the symptoms you described, so there is no need to worry too much. Generally, these symptoms do not occur daily and do not affect your sleep quality. Since your daytime activities and work are normal, it indicates that your stress levels are...[Read More] Confused About Which Specialist to See for Sleep Disruptions?
Understanding Low Potassium Levels: Causes and Health Risks for Busy Professionals
Hypokalemia Hello Dr. Tsai, may I ask you about the causes of hypokalemia? I am a busy office worker who relies on strong coffee and cola for energy, but my blood tests still show low potassium levels (aren't coffee and cola supposed to cause high potassium?). If this contin...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, hypokalemia refers to poor absorption or excessive loss of potassium ions in the blood, or insufficient potassium ion concentration due to the use of certain medications. The causes are as follows: (1) Long-term use of corticosteroids, diuretics, and excessive laxative abu...[Read More] Understanding Low Potassium Levels: Causes and Health Risks for Busy Professionals
Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: What You Need to Know
Health check-up Hello, doctor: I would like to ask you some questions. My girlfriend is 21 years old and she had a health check-up two weeks ago. The results showed that her uric acid level is high, but everything else is normal. We don't understand the report because it is ...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear young patients, typically everything is normal. Doctors usually do not specifically explain that creatinine is related to kidney function; as long as it is within the normal range, it is considered normal. Uric acid is slightly elevated, so dietary attention is needed regard...[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Protein Allergies: Treatment Options for Alcohol, Eggs, and Seafood
Protein allergy (Forwarded from the Director's mailbox) If you have allergies to alcohol, eggs, or seafood, there are several treatment options available. Antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, can help alleviate mild allergic reactions. For more severe reactions,...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello Mr. Ou, if you have allergies, you can only take antihistamines, but allergic foods indicate that your body does not accept them, which triggers an allergic reaction as a warning. This is similar to toxins or poisons in the body. You can't keep consuming toxins or pois...[Read More] Understanding Protein Allergies: Treatment Options for Alcohol, Eggs, and Seafood
Understanding Bitter Taste: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Taste - Always has a bitter flavor? You should consult a gastroenterologist for your symptoms.
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, regarding the phenomenon you described, it is likely a temporary change in taste due to the following reasons: 1. Long-term smoking causing damage to the taste buds on the tongue. 2. Upper respiratory infections (such as colds or pharyngitis) leading to temporary taste abn...[Read More] Understanding Bitter Taste: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Can a Cold Cause Headaches? Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Common cold? Hello, doctor! Can a cold cause headaches? Why didn't I experience headaches during my previous colds? Could there be other reasons for this? Which specialist should I see? Thank you for helping me clarify my doubts...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Hello Amin, if you have a cold and experience a fever, it may lead to headaches. Each type of cold can be different, so it's not uncommon to have headaches with some colds and not with others. If your headache persists even after recovering from the cold, please visit a hosp...[Read More] Can a Cold Cause Headaches? Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Breathing Difficulties and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Active Lifestyles
Back pain & difficulty breathing and exercising? Dear Doctor, Hello. I really enjoy running, but for about the past six months to a year, I have been experiencing difficulty breathing while running. I often feel like I can't get enough air, and I sometimes have soreness...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Janice, please visit a family medicine physician at the hospital and present the questions you have written down for discussion. They will go through each item with you and arrange for the necessary examinations. Since you are willing to take the time to write down these que...[Read More] Breathing Difficulties and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Active Lifestyles
Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Low back pain The pain in the right abdomen (upper and lower) accompanied by discomfort and bloating in the gastrointestinal area, as well as mild nausea when lightly tapping the area below the right chest, may indicate an issue with the right kidney, liver, gallbladder, or the i...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Ching, without seeing you in person, asking detailed questions, and conducting a physical examination, I cannot provide you with an answer. Do you think a doctor can diagnose from a distance? That would make them more skilled than fortune tellers! Please visit a gastroentero...[Read More] Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Which Specialist to See for Heart and Breathing Issues?
Heart..? If you are experiencing difficulty breathing and unusual sensations in your heart, it is advisable to see a specialist in cardiology or pulmonology. Regarding the cost of visiting a major hospital without health insurance, it can vary widely depending on the specific ser...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, if you do not have a family history and you personally do not have congenital heart disease, then the symptoms mentioned above should be temporary and not a cause for concern. A little rest should help. If you are still worried, it is advisable to visit a nearby internal m...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Heart and Breathing Issues?
Understanding Tendonitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Tendinitis I accidentally injured my thumb and the surrounding area of my palm while playing basketball. It hurts whenever I apply pressure, and I can't write for too long. The right side of my abdomen also feels like it's inflamed and is very painful when I press on it...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Mr. Lai, It is recommended that you see a rehabilitation specialist for sports injuries caused by playing. As for your abdominal pain, it may also be related to a sports injury. You can first have a rehabilitation physician assess your condition, and if necessary, you can t...[Read More] Understanding Tendonitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Improving High Cholesterol Levels: Tips from a Family Medicine Expert
Health check-up Hello Dr. Hsu: I recently had a health check-up, and one of the results was abnormal: my total cholesterol (CHOL) level. What measures can I take to improve it and bring it back within the normal range?
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Fred, The normal range for total cholesterol is between 130 and 200 mg/dL. Medication is typically required only if levels exceed 240 mg/dL. Therefore, please focus on dietary control for three months and then return for a follow-up check. In your diet, try to avoid frie...[Read More] Improving High Cholesterol Levels: Tips from a Family Medicine Expert
Understanding Thumb Numbness: Causes and Solutions in Family Medicine
Finger numbness Hello Dr. Tsai, recently I have been experiencing numbness in my thumb when I rotate my arm after extending my hand straight (the left hand does not have this issue). Could you please help me with this? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, regarding the numbness in a single finger, there are several possible causes: 1. Peripheral nerve injury: This can occur due to trauma or sports injuries (such as tennis elbow or working with vibrating tools). 2. Peripheral vascular occlusion: This may result from trauma...[Read More] Understanding Thumb Numbness: Causes and Solutions in Family Medicine
Why Do I Wake Up with Brown Sticky Substance in My Mouth?
Waking up in the morning with an unusual feeling in the mouth? I would like to ask which department I should consult if I wake up every morning with a thick, brownish substance in my mouth. Could you also explain why this might be happening?
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsieh, please visit a dentist first to check for any issues related to gum bleeding and periodontal disease. If those are not the problems, then please see a family medicine physician for a reevaluation. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Sincerely, Hsu Li-An Hualien Hos...[Read More] Why Do I Wake Up with Brown Sticky Substance in My Mouth?
Understanding Easy Bruising: Causes and Solutions for Common Concerns
Chronic bruising Hello, Doctor: Over the past year or two, I seem to bruise easily, possibly because I am a bit clumsy and often bump into table corners or chair edges while walking. As a result, I frequently have bruises on my calves and thighs, which I haven't treated spec...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Tina, Please visit a family medicine or hematology department at a major hospital. The hematology department usually specializes in hematologic oncology to check for any blood coagulation issues. If there are none, please be careful while walking. As for scar removal, it c...[Read More] Understanding Easy Bruising: Causes and Solutions for Common Concerns