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
Sudden Dizziness, Nausea, and Cold Sweats: What Could It Mean?
Sudden dizziness, vomiting, and cold sweats? Hello, Doctor. I would like to consult about my symptoms. On July 7th, at around 3 AM, I was suddenly awakened from deep sleep by a wave of dizziness. After waking up, the dizziness intensified, and my vision felt shaky. I then had an ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsuan: 1. Vertigo is a common clinical symptom; however, there are sometimes differing perspectives on its definition. Many people often confuse vertigo with dizziness, and physicians, due to time constraints and communication difficulties, may not make a clear distinc...[Read More] Sudden Dizziness, Nausea, and Cold Sweats: What Could It Mean?
Can You Take Cold Medicine After Receiving the BNT Vaccine?
Can I take cold medicine the day after receiving the BNT vaccine? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, before receiving the BNT vaccine, I experienced a dry throat, which I initially thought was due to spending too much time in an air-conditioned room. However, today I started experiencing ...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: After receiving the BNT vaccine, you can take over-the-counter cold medications to relieve symptoms. However, since COVID-19 can present similar symptoms, it is recommended that you use a rapid test kit before taking any medication. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Can You Take Cold Medicine After Receiving the BNT Vaccine?
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
Should You See a Specialist for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders?
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction I was referred to a family medicine doctor by a friend, who diagnosed me with autonomic nervous system dysfunction. I was prescribed Mirtazapine, and while I've seen some improvement, I still don't feel well. Some people say that aut...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Autonomic nervous system disorders are mostly caused by changes in lifestyle and stress, leading to physical and mental discomfort. Typically, there is no specific organ damage involved. The primary role of medication is to alleviate your discomfort. To achieve a complete ...[Read More] Should You See a Specialist for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders?
Does Crushing or Splitting Medications Affect Their Effectiveness?
Cutting or crushing medication? Hello doctor, I went to the hospital due to loss of appetite and nausea and received some medication. I would like to know if crushing or grinding these medications will affect their efficacy and absorption? The medications are Yao Kuai Zhi Fu Da N...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The three medications you mentioned will not have their absorption affected by being crushed or powdered.[Read More] Does Crushing or Splitting Medications Affect Their Effectiveness?
Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?
Which specialty should I see? Hello Doctor, I contracted COVID-19 two months ago, experiencing symptoms such as cough, sore throat, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, and difficulty breathing. I did not seek medical attention during that time. After recovering (with a negative...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: After being infected with COVID-19, some individuals may experience discomforting symptoms. It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about issues related to nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. My symptoms have persisted for about two weeks, but they have slightly improved in the past few days, although I still feel some mild discomfort. I wou...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Your discomfort may also be caused by stress; however, it is important to first rule out other organic issues, such as gastrointestinal problems, issues with other abdominal organs, or endocrine disorders, before considering stress or other non-organic factors. Additi...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Can Fish Oil Supplement Interact with Blood Thinners?
Fish oil and anticoagulant medications? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask for your advice. I am currently taking Berkapz, Kety, Sigmacor, and Lipitor after dinner, and half a tablet of CoQ10 after breakfast. As long as I space out my multivitamins, it should generally be fine, r...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your interest in taking fish oil to lower triglycerides, there are two important considerations: 1. You are already using a lipid-lowering medication, which should have some effect on reducing triglycerides. If the effect is not satisfactory, you might consider s...[Read More] Can Fish Oil Supplement Interact with Blood Thinners?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello doctor, I've been feeling nauseous and have a loss of appetite lately, and it seems like I might have gastritis. I've taken some stomach medication over the past few days, which has provided some relief, but my appetite is still not th...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your gastrointestinal discomfort, could it possibly be related to pregnancy? If you are certain that you are not pregnant, at your age, a typical case of gastroenteritis should improve within a few days. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen (such as abdomin...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Understanding COVID-19 Symptoms and Negative Test Results: What to Do Next
COVID-19 Hello, doctor. I have a question to ask you. Currently, my parents, sister-in-law, and niece were diagnosed with COVID-19 seven days ago, and I live with them. About four days ago, I started experiencing symptoms, initially mild sneezing and a runny nose. The rapid test ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your likelihood of being infected is quite high. As for why both rapid tests came back negative, you may want to consider the following three possibilities: 1. Testing issues: Each test can be affected by variations in the sampling technique, whi...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Symptoms and Negative Test Results: What to Do Next
Understanding Left Jaw Swelling and Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Swelling and pain in the left mandible? Hello Doctor, I have noticed increasing swelling on the lower left side of my face (approximately near the molars) and it is painful. I saw a dentist and took pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication, but there has been no improvemen...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: Do you have sinusitis? It is advisable to first consult an otolaryngologist for an examination, as there may also be a possibility of a dental abscess.[Read More] Understanding Left Jaw Swelling and Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
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
Safe Medication Guidance for COVID-19 Patients with Multiple Conditions
COVID-19 medication consultation Hello Doctor, I inquired about my mother's confirmed diagnosis yesterday, and I appreciate your response! I would like to ask about my mother's telemedicine appointment today. Since I am not nearby and the video signal was intermittent, ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: I will answer your questions in three parts: 1. Paxlovid and liver and kidney function: Paxlovid can be used at full dosage in patients with mild renal impairment and mild to moderate hepatic impairment. In patients with moderate renal impairment, the dosage should be ad...[Read More] Safe Medication Guidance for COVID-19 Patients with Multiple Conditions
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
Struggling to Breathe: Understanding Yawning Difficulties and Solutions
Inability to yawn / Breathing issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a sensation of not being able to take a deep breath for about five years. It feels like I am inhaling, but I don't feel like the air is actually getting in. I also find it difficult to yawn completel...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is recommended that you consult an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Struggling to Breathe: Understanding Yawning Difficulties and Solutions
Am I Suffering from Gastroenteritis or GERD? Understanding My Symptoms
Am I suffering from gastroenteritis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing stomach pain after meals for the past week, along with a feeling of bloating and even nausea that sometimes leads to vomiting. Occasionally, I also ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it seems more like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as abdominal pain and diarrhea from gastroenteritis typically resolve on their own within a few days to a week, unless there is persistent vomiting, watery diarrhea, or blood/bl...[Read More] Am I Suffering from Gastroenteritis or GERD? Understanding My Symptoms
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Eosinophils and Platelet Width Concerns
Blood Test Report Last month's health check report indicated that the eosinophil percentage was 0.5, with a normal range of 0.7, and the platelet width was abnormal at 18.7. I recall that last year's eosinophil percentage was also around this number. What could be the p...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you bring your health check-up report to the family medicine outpatient clinic for consultation and evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Eosinophils and Platelet Width Concerns
Understanding Prediabetes Symptoms: Key Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Symptoms of Prediabetes Last December, I visited a urologist due to symptoms of frequent urination and erectile dysfunction. At that time, my blood glucose level was 108 after fasting for 8 hours. The doctor prescribed medication for benign prostatic hyperplasia, which improved m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The typical initial symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, increased urination, increased appetite, and weight loss (in later stages). The acanthosis nigricans you mentioned is a possible but not common manifestation. As for slow wound healing and blurred vision, these...[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes Symptoms: Key Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Exposure to COVID-19: Assessing Your Risk After Contact with Positive Cases
Contact with confirmed cases? Doctor, I would like to inquire about my mother who tested positive in a rapid test. I went to the hospital to register and pick up antiviral medication, and I was surrounded by confirmed cases, standing less than two arm lengths away from them for o...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Risk of infection: This can be discussed in terms of factors that lower and increase the risk of infection: - Factors that lower the risk of infection: You are wearing two layers of masks. - Factors that increase the risk of infection: The distance from confir...[Read More] Exposure to COVID-19: Assessing Your Risk After Contact with Positive Cases