Managing High Cholesterol: Key Questions and Answers for Your Health
High cholesterol Hello Doctor: Here are my two test reports, from February 2021 and July 2022: Total cholesterol: 215, 226 (unit: mg/dL) Triglycerides: 69, 126 (unit: mg/dL) HDL-cholesterol: 36, 37 (unit: mg/dL) LDL-cholesterol: 160, 164 (unit: mg/dL) Total cholesterol/...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Based on the report and medical history you provided, although your current lipid levels have slightly increased, they are still not at the stage where medication is recommended. It is advised that you reduce your calorie intake, increase your consumption of fruits and veg...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Key Questions and Answers for Your Health
Understanding Unexplained Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Insights
Chest discomfort? Hello Doctor: For the past few days, I have been experiencing a sensation near the lower right chest, close to the epigastric area, that feels like a vibration lasting one or two seconds, somewhat resembling peristalsis or friction, but without any actual sound....
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, if your vibrations are related to your heartbeat, it may be necessary to consider whether there are any heart or aortic diseases. If your vibrations are not related to your heartbeat, it may be worth considering whether there are any esophageal o...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Insights
Sudden Sharp Pain in Upper Left Back After Shower: Causes and Concerns
Sudden sharp pain in the upper left back after taking a shower? Hello Doctor: I am currently 23 years old, 163 cm tall, and weigh 55 kg. Aside from panic disorder, I have no significant medical history, and I have undergone a 24-hour Holter monitor with no abnormalities. Today, a...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: Heart pain accompanied by cold sweats and pale complexion may be related to the spine or back muscles and ligaments. You can visit an orthopedic specialist.[Read More] Sudden Sharp Pain in Upper Left Back After Shower: Causes and Concerns
Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Vaccination and Symptoms After Confirmed COVID-19 Infection Hello Doctor, in mid-April of this year, after receiving the third dose of the Moderna vaccine, I occasionally experienced symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. After underg...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Sir: 1. Many hospitals have established integrated outpatient clinics for COVID-19 survivors; therefore, you can look for a nearby hospital that is suitable for your treatment to address your concerns. 2. Your description may indicate "autonomic nervous system dysfunc...[Read More] Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Underarm Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Axillary pain Initially thought to be premenstrual symptoms, but due to intermittent pain lasting about a month, with pain in the right armpit, shoulder pain, back pain, and chest tightness (unable to sleep lying down). I have tried massage to relieve discomfort, but I experience...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort involves the armpit, shoulder, back, and chest. The organs to consider include the skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, breasts, lungs, and heart. Therefore, it is recommended that you first visit a family medicine physician for an initial examination....[Read More] Understanding Underarm Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Chest Discomfort After Eating: Possible Causes and Solutions
Chest tightness after cooking or eating? Hello doctor, I went out for errands at 2:30 PM the day before yesterday and was exposed to the sun for about 20 minutes. I experienced chest tightness, but after drinking water and resting, it improved. I burped and felt better. Today at ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: In addition to gastrointestinal issues (most commonly gastroesophageal reflux), your chest discomfort should also consider potential heart problems (such as angina) or lung issues (such as asthma). It is recommended that you first visit a family medicine physician for an i...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort After Eating: Possible Causes and Solutions
Can I Take 800 IU of Vitamin D with Heart Issues and Low Blood Pressure?
The issue of vitamin pigs? I'm sorry, but I'm not sure if I can take it. I have moderate mitral valve insufficiency, as well as panic disorder, and my blood pressure is low, around 95/55. Can I take 800 IU of vitamin D per day? I've heard it can enhance immunity ag...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your age, the recommended dosage of vitamin D is 600 IU per day. In fact, a daily intake of up to 4000 IU is considered safe. With your current intake of 800 IU of vitamin D per day, theoretically, there should be no side effects. The primary concern with vitamin ...[Read More] Can I Take 800 IU of Vitamin D with Heart Issues and Low Blood Pressure?
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Women
Left chest tightness and pain? Hello, doctor! I've been experiencing left chest tightness and pain for the past two days. Sometimes the pain is closer to the nipple, but there is no pain on the right side. The tightness persists throughout the day. My menstrual period just e...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsiao-Yu, 1. When a clinician addresses the issue of chest pain, the first four critical conditions to rule out are myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, and aortic dissection. If none of these conditions are present, the differential diagnosis shoul...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Women
Understanding Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss in Older Adults
Weight loss and decreased appetite? Hello, my mother has recently been feeling increasingly thin, although her weight hasn't decreased. We have noticed that her arm muscles feel soft, and her buttocks seem to have slimmed down. Additionally, she hasn't had much appetite...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons that can cause weight loss and loss of appetite, including endocrine disorders (such as diabetes and thyroid issues), gastrointestinal diseases, heart diseases, liver diseases, kidney diseases, cancer, infectious diseases, and side effects of medicat...[Read More] Understanding Decreased Appetite and Weight Loss in Older Adults
Understanding Numbness and Appetite Loss: When to Seek Medical Help
Numbness in the hands and feet, along with loss of appetite? A year ago, I experienced shortness of breath, chest tightness, and numbness in my hands, feet, and knees. I went to a family medicine clinic where I had a chest X-ray and heart rate monitoring. The doctor said there we...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Since your discomfort includes symptoms of the upper respiratory tract and considering the current severity of the pandemic, it is recommended that you first conduct a rapid test to check for COVID-19. If the rapid test is negative and there are no significant findings fro...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Appetite Loss: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing COVID-19 Risks for Diabetic Patients: A Care Guide
Diabetes and confirmed COVID-19 infection? Hello Doctor, my mother is 64 years old and has diabetes and hypertension. She has been regularly visiting a family physician and is on long-term medication for control. However, in September 2020, she experienced pancreatitis (suspected...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: After contracting COVID-19, the two main concerns are monitoring the progression of the illness and medication treatment: 1. Monitoring the progression of the illness: This can be divided into subjective and objective components. Subjective component: If your mother experi...[Read More] Managing COVID-19 Risks for Diabetic Patients: A Care Guide
Can People with Favism Safely Undergo Waxing Treatments?
Can individuals with G6PD deficiency undergo hot wax hair removal? Hello, I would like to ask if individuals with G6PD deficiency can undergo waxing hair removal. I have seen many waxing services stating that those with G6PD deficiency need to consult a doctor, so I would like to...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Because you have favism, in addition to avoiding certain foods and medications, you should also be cautious about exposure to substances containing menthol, camphor, and methyl salicylate in your environment. It is recommended that you inquire whether the hot wax used for ...[Read More] Can People with Favism Safely Undergo Waxing Treatments?
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat Before Sleep: Causes and Solutions
Increased heart rate during sleep? Recently, just as I am about to fall asleep, I experience sudden episodes of rapid heartbeat. During these episodes, I feel weakness in my limbs, and my mouth feels too weak to open. However, if I take deep breaths through my nose, my heartbeat ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your issue of experiencing palpitations before falling asleep, I suspect that these palpitations may lead to poor blood circulation, which could cause feelings of weakness. Over time, this not only affects your sleep but may also impact heart function, resulting ...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat Before Sleep: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chest Pain with Right Shoulder Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Chest pain accompanied by right shoulder pain? Hello, Doctor! This morning I noticed a feeling of pressure and pain in my right chest accompanied by shoulder pain. The pressure sensation started today, and I haven't experienced this before. Sometimes the shoulder pain is mor...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsiao: 1. When a clinician addresses the issue of chest pain, the first four critical conditions to rule out are myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, and aortic dissection. If none of these conditions are present, the differential diagnosis should c...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain with Right Shoulder Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Differences Between Senda Pressure Control and Biken Coated Tablets
What is the difference between Sandoz pressure-controlled release and Bicon film-coated tablets? Hello, doctor. I have a problem with high blood pressure. I switched clinics and my previous clinic prescribed me Sandoz (Candesartan), while the new clinic prescribed me Bystolic (Ne...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, these two are both antihypertensive medications. The physician likely adjusted them based on your clinical changes. It is recommended that you consult with a pharmacist or the prescribing physician. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Differences Between Senda Pressure Control and Biken Coated Tablets
Is My Blood Pressure Rising? Understanding Prehypertension Risks
Blood pressure issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my blood pressure. For the past six years, I have measured it approximately twice a year, and it has been around 102/68. Recently, in the last month, my readings have been around 129/68 and 123/78. Is this considered p...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: By definition, a systolic blood pressure of 120-139 or a diastolic blood pressure of 80-89 is classified as prehypertension. Therefore, the blood pressure values you provided meet the criteria for a diagnosis of prehypertension. Additionally, it is important to consider yo...[Read More] Is My Blood Pressure Rising? Understanding Prehypertension Risks
Understanding Left Chest and Rib Pain: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers
Pain in the left sternum and lower edge? Hello Doctor, I am an office worker who has a sedentary lifestyle and lacks exercise. About a month ago, I started experiencing pain in my left back, left sternum (slightly to the left of the nipple line), left armpit, and the rib area ben...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your pain issue, the general area is located in the left chest and underarm. The potential causes could range from skin, muscle ligaments, breast, ribs, pleura, lungs, or heart problems. Based on your medical evaluation, it is likely that you have a breast fibroc...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest and Rib Pain: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers
Understanding Chronic Hypoxia: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Definition of chronic hypoxia and its effects on the body? I am not sure if my condition qualifies as chronic hypoxia. I often forget to breathe (or breathe too shallowly and infrequently), and occasionally I feel a tingling sensation in my lips, which seems similar to the effect...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: An objective method for assessing hypoxia is through the use of a pulse oximeter and arterial blood gas analysis. Generally, a normal blood oxygen saturation level for healthy individuals should be above 95%. Additionally, common symptoms of hypoxia primarily include short...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Hypoxia: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings After a Sudden Trauma: A Medical Inquiry
The blood pressure reading of 197/58 indicates a condition known as isolated systolic hypertension, where the systolic pressure (the first number) is significantly elevated while the diastolic pressure (the second number) is within a normal range. This could be a sign of cardiova...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on the blood pressure data you provided, there is indeed a situation of elevated blood pressure. However, blood pressure naturally fluctuates and can increase due to factors such as exercise, stress, anxiety, or physical discomfort. A single instance of elevated bloo...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Readings After a Sudden Trauma: A Medical Inquiry
Understanding Blood Test Results: Do You Need Further Testing for Thalassemia?
Blood Test Consultation Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. I have mild mitral valve prolapse and my usual heart rate is around 100 beats per minute. I have been taking Concor 5mg for the past two years, but I stopped the medication last year. On t...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Karen: It is generally recommended to identify the underlying cause of anemia. You may consult with a physician at a family medicine clinic. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Do You Need Further Testing for Thalassemia?