Understanding Your Blood Test Results: HDL Levels and Health Risks
The medical examination report shows results highlighted in red? Hello Doctor: Since I have reached the age of 40, I went to the clinic for a blood test. I received the report a few days ago. 1. The following values are highlighted in red: ★ High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, "high-density lipoprotein cholesterol" (HDL-C) is considered good cholesterol. The normal range for women is >50 mg/dL. If the value is low, it indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. In general, physicians should recommend how often to follow u...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: HDL Levels and Health Risks
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice
Persistent low-grade fever Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about my body temperature. Since this past Monday, my temperature has been fluctuating around 37.5 degrees Celsius, with a maximum of 37.7 and a minimum of 37.1. Most of the time, it is between 37.4 and 37.6. I am ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, according to the records, your temperature is indeed slightly elevated. If it does not improve, it is advisable to visit the Infectious Disease Clinic for further evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot pr...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice
Persistent Dizziness and Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Dizziness, vomiting, and persistent upper abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I visited the clinic due to dizziness, chills, and general weakness. The doctor mentioned that I was showing symptoms of an impending cold and prescribed medication for cold and fever. After ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
If you have not recovered after medication treatment or have developed new symptoms, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for the physician's evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Persistent Dizziness and Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Managing Blood Sugar and Kidney Health: A Patient's Journey
Blood Sugar and Kidney Issues Hello doctor, a month ago my fasting blood glucose was 127, and my HbA1c was 7.2. The doctor prescribed medication for me, but I was advised not to take it. Instead, I focused on exercising and changing my diet, and my fasting blood glucose has mostl...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The decrease in your glomerular filtration rate may be due to diabetic nephropathy or other factors causing kidney damage (such as dehydration, use of pain medications, etc.). It is recommended that you see a nephrologist as soon as possible for further evaluation of the u...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar and Kidney Health: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Drug Interactions: Can Paxlovid Affect Your Current Medications?
Drug interactions Excuse me, doctor. I would like to ask if the following medications I am taking will interact with the antiviral medication Paxlovid. Do I need to stop taking them? I take Xanax (alprazolam) 0.25 mg daily, propranolol 10 mg, nebivolol 5 mg, and Tylenol (acetamin...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Among the four medications you are currently taking, only Alprazolam has a potential drug interaction with the antiviral medication Paxlovid. It is important to monitor whether there is an increase in the sedative effects of Alprazolam. If the dosage of Alprazolam is very ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Can Paxlovid Affect Your Current Medications?
Impact of Medications on Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Inquiry
Issues related to steroids and blood sugar? Hello, doctor. Six months ago, I measured my fasting blood sugar at a testing center, and the value was 110. Since then, I have been controlling my diet, and my recent readings have been around 83-107. However, I have not yet measured m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The oral medication you are using does not affect blood sugar levels, and while the topical eczema cream, eye ointment, and eye drops contain steroids, topical steroids generally do not significantly impact blood sugar. Additionally, issues related to inflammation and i...[Read More] Impact of Medications on Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Inquiry
Managing Menopausal Symptoms: Night Sweats, Heart Palpitations, and Insomnia
Menopausal palpitations and insomnia? Hello, I am 53 years old. In 2021, I had a uterine fibroid about 10 cm in size, which was surgically removed along with my uterus, while my ovaries were preserved. Over the past year, I have started experiencing episodes of waking up at night...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: For menopausal syndrome, please consult a gynecologist to check for hormone reduction. Medication treatment may lead to some improvement.[Read More] Managing Menopausal Symptoms: Night Sweats, Heart Palpitations, and Insomnia
Should You Rely on Medication for Diabetes Management?
Diabetes medication issues? Hello, doctor. At the end of May and the beginning of June, my blood sugar was checked at 127, and my hemoglobin A1c was 7.2. The doctor said I have diabetes and prescribed medication for me. A friend mentioned that my levels are not too high and that ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Since you have just been diagnosed with diabetes, I would recommend that you manage your blood sugar through a combination of medication, diet, and exercise. Although your fasting blood sugar in the morning is only slightly elevated, your postprandial blood sugar may be hi...[Read More] Should You Rely on Medication for Diabetes Management?
How Soon After COVID-19 Can You Safely Resume Exercise?
How long after recovering from COVID-19 is it advisable to resume exercise? Hello Dr. Lin, I tested positive on June 28, and as of today, June 30, my symptoms have not fully resolved. After my follow-up visit, the doctor provided supportive treatment. Currently, I have intermitte...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Diabetes, unless it involves short-term fluctuations in blood sugar levels, typically causes organ damage through chronic and long-term changes. Additionally, the management of diabetes is not solely reliant on medication; dietary modifications and exercise are also cru...[Read More] How Soon After COVID-19 Can You Safely Resume Exercise?
Effective Medications for Relieving COVID-19 Symptoms
Medications for alleviating COVID-19 symptoms? Hello, I visited the clinic for a COVID-19 diagnosis, and the clinic prescribed several medications to alleviate symptoms, which have been successful. Currently, I am only experiencing excessive phlegm. I would like to know if taking...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen, please take the medication as prescribed for treatment. The medication is commonly used for cough suppression or allergic itching. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for the physician to evaluate your condition. Thank you.[Read More] Effective Medications for Relieving COVID-19 Symptoms
Do Seladin and Labtal Cause Low Blood Pressure? A Doctor's Insight
Medication consultation Hello, doctor. I would like to ask whether the medications Seladin and Labtal can cause a decrease in blood pressure. My blood pressure was already low, and it has become even lower after taking them. This issue has been troubling me for a long time. Thank...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, labtal is available, but seladin is not.[Read More] Do Seladin and Labtal Cause Low Blood Pressure? A Doctor's Insight
Which Procedure Should Come First: Brain Aneurysm or Joint Replacement?
Which procedure should be performed first: brain aneurysm treatment or joint replacement surgery? Hello, my mother has moderate hearing loss and long-term tinnitus. Recently, she showed signs of possible dementia, so we took her to the hospital for examination. An MRI revealed a ...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Mimi: Life-threatening conditions need to be addressed first. If the neurosurgeon does not take immediate action, there may be significant risks involved in making a decision.[Read More] Which Procedure Should Come First: Brain Aneurysm or Joint Replacement?
COVID-19 Symptoms or Autonomic Nervous System Disorder?
Is it a symptom of the confirmed diagnosis or is there an additional complication of autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Hello, doctor. I would like to explain that I am experiencing a second diagnosis of COVID-19 and I have a history of mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, whether or not a diagnosis is confirmed should still be determined by viral testing. However, it is difficult to confirm the presence of the aforementioned discomfort symptoms based on experience and clinical research. It is advisable to seek appropriate treatment or manag...[Read More] COVID-19 Symptoms or Autonomic Nervous System Disorder?
Understanding Chronic Nausea and Dry Heaving: Seeking Solutions
Easily feels nauseous and experiences dry heaving? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a symptom since elementary school where I often feel nauseous and have the urge to vomit. I have seen doctors, but no diagnosis was made. Throughout my growth, this symptom has not been con...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is essential to first rule out whether physiological factors are the cause. Of course, psychosomatic factors may also play a role, and the low potassium levels in your blood test could be related to unstable intake or absorption. It is advisable to consult your family p...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Nausea and Dry Heaving: Seeking Solutions
Persistent Swelling in Leg After Motorcycle Accident: What to Expect?
Swelling in the lower leg after a car accident that persists for a long time? Hello Doctor, on March 1st, I was involved in a motorcycle accident. The next day, a portion of my calf swelled to about 5x5 cm, but there were no obvious external injuries. The doctor advised me to app...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you return to the original medical institution for an evaluation of your current condition. A face-to-face consultation to understand your recovery status is preferable. Assess whether further treatment is needed, as online consultations are not equi...[Read More] Persistent Swelling in Leg After Motorcycle Accident: What to Expect?
Understanding Left Upper Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Pain and swelling in the upper left back? Hello Dr. Chen, I am inquiring on behalf of my father. He is 60 years old and has recently started experiencing pain in his upper left back over the past few days. Last night, I asked him to describe the pain, and he said it feels similar...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Could you please ask the current neurologist to assist in the evaluation and refer or arrange for examinations as needed based on the patient's condition? Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Tinnitus and Its Connection to Shingles: A Patient's Journey
Tinnitus and herpes issues? Hello Dr. Liao, I have been experiencing tinnitus for over six months. In addition to the tinnitus, I often feel a tingling sensation in the nerves around my spine. I visited an ENT specialist in December last year, and the doctor said that all my test...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding tinnitus, it is a symptom that is not easy to diagnose. It is advisable to follow up with an otolaryngologist for appropriate treatment and to maintain a regular routine, engage in proper exercise, and ensure a balanced diet. Please note that online consultations...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus and Its Connection to Shingles: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Frequent Breathing Difficulties: Asthma or Heart Issues?
Shortness of breath Hello, doctor. I have a question today. I have asthma, and during an attack, I experience frequent coughing, poor sleep, and even difficulty breathing. Using bronchodilators provides significant relief. I find that changes in weather can easily trigger my asth...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, Qing: It seems that you are using short-acting bronchodilators more frequently. If you are experiencing frequent episodes, it is recommended to use both short-acting and long-acting bronchodilators together, as this can help stabilize your breathing. During episodes of dys...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Breathing Difficulties: Asthma or Heart Issues?
Understanding Forceful Heartbeats and Chest Discomfort: Next Steps
Palpitations and chest tightness? Hello Doctor: Since the afternoon of April 12, I have been feeling a strong heartbeat, especially when leaning against the back of a chair or lying in bed, where I can distinctly feel my chest rising and falling. I subsequently consulted a cardio...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, there are no issues with the heart, only mitral valve prolapse. It can be inferred that the palpitations are a secondary phenomenon, likely triggered by certain situations. It may be helpful to identify the causes and make adjustments. Ensure ade...[Read More] Understanding Forceful Heartbeats and Chest Discomfort: Next Steps
Is a Potassium Level of 5.11 Considered Hyperkalemia?
What is the definition of hyperkalemia? Hello, Dr. Yeh. I have a family history of thyroid issues, so I regularly go to the hospital for check-ups. Recently, I found that one of my test results showed a potassium level of 5.110, which is slightly above the upper limit of 5.100. D...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, you currently have elevated potassium levels. Hyperkalemia does not typically present with specific symptoms, and it is important to consider the influence of other related conditions. I recommend that you consult with your primary physician to r...[Read More] Is a Potassium Level of 5.11 Considered Hyperkalemia?