Understanding Dengue Fever: Treatment Options and Diagnosis Explained
Dengue fever Is the treatment for dengue fever effective? How can one determine if it is dengue fever?
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: You can find the information you are looking for in the dengue fever section of the Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov.tw/index_info_info.asp?data_id=869. Thank you for your inquiry. Dr. Tsai Jue-Ren, Hualien Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Dengue Fever: Treatment Options and Diagnosis Explained
Sudden Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Help
Acute nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea? Hello, doctor. This morning, I suddenly felt a severe sore throat, which feels like acid reflux, as if stomach acid is rising up. However, I don't have any other symptoms commonly associated with food poisoning, such as stomach pain or c...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Sudden nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. The causes of acute gastroenteritis, aside from bacterial or viral infections, can include unexplained imbalances in gastric acidity or intestinal flora. A sudden chill may indicate a more severe ...[Read More] Sudden Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Help
Can a Cold Cause Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties?
Can a cold cause chest tightness? Hello Doctor, I recently caught a cold... At first, I only had mild fever, dizziness, and stomach discomfort... However, later I experienced shortness of breath and chest tightness... I went to see a doctor, and he just said it was a cold. Since ...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, a cold does not typically cause chest tightness. It is usually due to severe coughing that leads to increased pressure within the thoracic cavity, which the body may temporarily struggle to adjust to, resulting in a sensation of pressure on the heart (u...[Read More] Can a Cold Cause Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties?
Which Specialist Should I See for My Immune Function Issues?
Which department should I consult regarding my exemption from military service? Hello, Dr. Tsai. For the past six months, I have been continuously seeking medical treatment. Initially, I consulted a psychiatrist, but then other health issues arose. After recovering from a cold, I...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, reading your statement is truly disheartening. As a physician, I wish I could resolve your issues in one go, but this is also a moment when we feel most powerless. The complexity of your symptoms indicates that more time and effort are required. Immunodeficiency or immune ...[Read More] Which Specialist Should I See for My Immune Function Issues?
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Health Implications
excuse me? Leukopenia, or a low white blood cell count, can lead to an increased risk of infections, as white blood cells are crucial for the immune response. It can be associated with various conditions, including bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, certain infections, a...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, in medical terms, a low white blood cell count is referred to as leukopenia, which is indicated by a white blood cell count of less than 4000/uL in blood test reports. This condition may occur in 1. immunocompromised patients 2. severe bacterial or viral infections (less c...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Health Implications
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
Understanding Body Heat: Causes of Warmth Without Fever
Fever Hello: I often feel warm in my body, and sometimes I experience dizziness or nausea, but I don't have a fever. What could be the issue?
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Based on your situation, the first step is to check if you are pregnant. If not, then we can consider whether you have a cold or other conditions.[Read More] Understanding Body Heat: Causes of Warmth Without Fever
What to Do About Sudden Swelling and Pain in the Ankle?
What should I do? Hello, doctor. I have a friend whose right foot suddenly swelled, with redness from the dorsum of the foot to the ankle. It hurts when touched, but there is no fever. Usually, it doesn't itch, and there is only one red spot on the ankle. He noticed it on th...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
If there is a slight redness, it could be folliculitis. If there is also redness and swelling nearby, it may be cellulitis, in which case antibiotics should be taken or administered.[Read More] What to Do About Sudden Swelling and Pain in the Ankle?
Understanding Your Symptoms: When to See a Doctor for Ongoing Issues
Are you feeling unwell? Hello Doctor: Last week I had a cold with a fever, but I only took leftover medication from a previous cold. The fever subsided, and I didn't see a doctor. This week, I first experienced stomach discomfort and pain all day, and then over the next few ...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Common colds are typically caused by viral infections, and the purpose of medication prescribed by doctors is to alleviate cold symptoms and the overall discomfort caused by the cold. Sometimes, colds can also be accompanied by gastrointestinal discomfort, including loss o...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: When to See a Doctor for Ongoing Issues
Understanding the Causes of Elevated ESR Levels: A Guide for Patients
Inquire about the causes of elevated ESR levels? In the past two weeks, I have been continuously having blood tests, and my CRP levels have remained within the normal range, but my ESR levels have been consistently rising. I am unsure what could be causing the elevated ESR levels...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
CRP and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) are both related to inflammatory responses, but CRP is more sensitive than ESR during inflammation. Therefore, in general clinical practice, CRP can replace ESR. Both markers can show positive results in various infectious diseases, rh...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Elevated ESR Levels: A Guide for Patients
Understanding White Blood Cell Count and Body Temperature Concerns
White blood cell count and body temperature issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask two questions. 1. In my routine blood tests over the past few years, my white blood cell count has consistently ranged between 4200 and 4800. However, in a recent blood test conducted a few d...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Huang Chin-Fen: A white blood cell count of 6,000 is within the normal range and does not require concern. Generally, conditions such as acute or chronic infections, tissue damage, malignant tumors, rheumatoid diseases, and pregnancy can lead to an increase in white blood cell co...[Read More] Understanding White Blood Cell Count and Body Temperature Concerns
Understanding Vaccination: What to Do If You Missed Your Shots?
Preventive vaccination Dear Dr. Huang: I did not receive the vaccine known as the "fire needle" when I was in the sixth grade. What vaccine is that? I missed the vaccination due to having a cold and fever at the time; do I need to catch up on it? Recently, there have be...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
KIKI: There are several explanations: (1) After receiving the BCG vaccine, the injection site feels intensely hot, and red nodules typically appear within 7 to 10 days post-injection, which then enlarge and may become purulent. Ulceration occurs after six to eight weeks, hence th...[Read More] Understanding Vaccination: What to Do If You Missed Your Shots?
Unexplained Pain: Seeking Guidance for Persistent Symptoms
"Mysterious Illness" ~ Seeking Help Doctor: I am inquiring on behalf of my boyfriend. For the past six months, he has been experiencing nerve pain on the right side (from his right shoulder to the right side of his head) accompanied by fever symptoms. He feels nauseous ...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
If you frequently experience fever, please consult an infectious disease specialist. If the infectious disease specialist cannot determine the cause, you should see a metabolic specialist. Additionally, due to frequent neuropathic pain, it is also advisable to consult a neurosurg...[Read More] Unexplained Pain: Seeking Guidance for Persistent Symptoms
Timing for Vaccinations Before Traveling to High-Risk Areas
Timing for Vaccination Administration Dear Dr. Huang, I am planning to travel to mainland China soon, and I am aware that certain diseases are prevalent in that region. Given that my immune system is not very strong, I would like to ask if I need to receive any vaccinations befo...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
1. Hepatitis A is transmitted through food. It is advisable to get vaccinated before visiting areas with poor sanitation or where outbreaks are occurring. You can check with the health department for vaccination locations. 2. It is best to inquire whether there are any ongoing ...[Read More] Timing for Vaccinations Before Traveling to High-Risk Areas
Essential Tips for Afternoon Health Check-ups: Fasting and Costs
What should I pay attention to for an afternoon health check-up? Hello, doctor. I would like to know if I need to fast for my health check-up scheduled for the afternoon, which includes a general examination, X-ray, hepatitis A and B tests, syphilis test, and typhoid fever test. ...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Dr. Lin Ming-Hsing, Director of the Family Medicine Department at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan: Regarding your inquiry, the items mentioned above do not require fasting. The Tainan Hospital wishes you good health and all the best![Read More] Essential Tips for Afternoon Health Check-ups: Fasting and Costs
Essential Medications and Tips for Traveling with Young Children
Emergency measures when traveling abroad with children? When traveling abroad with a 3-year-old child, you should prepare the following essential medications: 1. **Fever and Pain Relief**: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) suitable for children. 2. **Cold and ...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Since you did not specify the country you are going to, I can only suggest that you bring common cold medications and gastrointestinal medications, including antipyretics and antidiarrheals, as well as some topical ointments for cuts or insect bites. I recommend taking your child...[Read More] Essential Medications and Tips for Traveling with Young Children
Understanding Leg Pain: Causes and Care for Aging Parents
Foot pain Hello, I would like to ask about my father: Recently, he has been experiencing significant pain in the thigh and calf muscles above the knee joint, making it very uncomfortable for him to go up and down stairs. After a consultation, the doctor suggested that it might be...
Dr. Hong Shouhong Reply:
Hello, thank you for your letter regarding your father's foot and leg pain. There are several points to consider, such as how long the pain has been occurring, whether it started suddenly or gradually worsened, any history of sports injuries or improper posture, the duration...[Read More] Understanding Leg Pain: Causes and Care for Aging Parents
Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide for Family Health Concerns
Please help me? I'm sorry to bother you for a moment. I live in Taichung City. Actually, my mother has been experiencing some strange symptoms. She is 51 years old and generally healthy, but over the past month, she has started to have fevers, body aches, and chills. Last ni...
Dr. Hong Chuanqi Reply:
Hello Ziye Xue, your mother's symptoms resemble those of menopause. You may take her to see a gynecologist, and if the issue persists, then consult a family physician. Best of luck. Hong Chuanqi, 93.12.17[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide for Family Health Concerns
Understanding Post-Cold Symptoms: Fever, Sweating, and Head Pain Explained
Cold and fever Hello doctor, I recently caught a cold. At first, I had a severe headache and a high fever, along with tonsillitis and muscle aches that lasted about two days before improving (the headache became less intense). However, afterward, I started experiencing episodes o...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Dear Xiao P, your symptoms are likely indicative of an upper respiratory tract infection combined with tonsillitis. The symptoms are generally more severe and may lead to a bacterial infection. If the infection spreads to the bloodstream, you may experience fever and chills. Plea...[Read More] Understanding Post-Cold Symptoms: Fever, Sweating, and Head Pain Explained
Understanding Your Symptoms: A Guide to Lymph Node Swelling and More
Doctor, what exactly is wrong with me? Hello, doctor. Since early December last year, I suddenly noticed a swollen lymph node in my neck (painless and over about one centimeter). I have been experiencing nausea and gas (later, a doctor said it might be due to duodenitis and gastr...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Hello, Xiao Dai: Your symptoms may be caused by scrub typhus. The primary vector in Taiwan is the Leptotrombidium deliensis mite. The animal hosts for the mite mainly include rodents, mammals (such as sheep, pigs, dogs, and cats), and birds (such as chickens). The main clinical s...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: A Guide to Lymph Node Swelling and More