Which Specialist Should You See for Cholesterol and PCOS Issues?
Which doctor should I see? Hello Doctor, my current blood pressure is 165/50. I have been a vegetarian since childhood and have a relatively thin build. During my last health check-up, I found out that my cholesterol levels are high: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is 59, and low-...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is often associated with being overweight. Individuals with higher body weight are more likely to experience increased secretion of insulin and androgens, leading to ovulatory dysfunction. If you are overweight, please manage your diet and ...[Read More] Which Specialist Should You See for Cholesterol and PCOS Issues?
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Numbers Really Mean
Blood test report examination? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I am currently studying abroad, and my school recently required me to undergo a health check locally. I visited the hospital last week and returned today to review my report. My lab results show: Hb 16.0, Ht 45.6, RBC 5.20, WBC 4....
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Hs: 1. All examinations or tests, including Complete Blood Counts (CBC), must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms. Clinical teaching focuses on critical thinking, utilizing clinical symptoms, chief complaints, physical examinations, laboratory data, and...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Numbers Really Mean
Chronic Constipation: Seeking Effective Solutions Beyond Laxatives
Bowel issues (constipation) Hello Doctor: I used to have occasional constipation issues, but they were infrequent. However, about a year ago, I started experiencing persistent constipation that has continued intermittently until now. My previous bowel habits were quite normal, wi...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, the presence of hard and dry stools indicates that you are still experiencing dehydration issues. It is recommended that you drink warm clear broth or adequately increase your fluid intake. Be mindful of the balance of fluid intake and output; so...[Read More] Chronic Constipation: Seeking Effective Solutions Beyond Laxatives
Understanding Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments
Numbness, itching, and tingling in the hands and feet? Initially, there was acute urticaria with widespread hives, and patches appeared on the palms and soles that were very itchy. After taking medication prescribed by the hospital for urticaria, the hives subsided, but after two...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Hsia: You mentioned that the hives have subsided, but after a couple of days, your hands and feet are still swollen and experiencing itching and tingling. This could be a delayed allergic reaction causing sensory abnormalities. I recommend that you visit a rheumatology ...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Antibiotics: Risks, Resistance, and Proper Use
Antibiotic Issues Last night, I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with bronchitis. I took a packet of medication home. This morning, I had to wake up early for work and didn't have time to take the medication again. It wasn't until now that I realized the doctor pres...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen: 1. The use of antibiotics is generally recommended to follow a complete course, which varies depending on the disease, typically ranging from 5 to 7 days. However, certain conditions may require treatment for two weeks or even four weeks. Clinicians must prescribe...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotics: Risks, Resistance, and Proper Use
Understanding High Ferritin Levels: What You Need to Know
The ferritin (EIA) index in the health examination report is elevated? Hello Doctor, I had a health check-up at the municipal hospital on September 22 (pre-marital check-up), which included blood, urine, stool tests, ultrasound, and X-rays. Today I received the report, and only t...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Ferritin is a molecule that combines trivalent iron (Fe3+) with apoferritin, serving as a storage form of iron in the body, which can be utilized by hematopoietic cells for hemoglobin synthesis. An increase in ferritin levels can be attributed to various causes, including inflamm...[Read More] Understanding High Ferritin Levels: What You Need to Know
Can I Take Doxepin and Rifampin Together Safely?
Can Du Shiping and Rifampicin be taken together? The otolaryngologist prescribed me Rifampicin 0.5 mg for the treatment of tinnitus to be taken before bedtime. I have been taking it for nearly 9 months and recently developed a shingles rash. The dermatologist prescribed me Doxepi...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Mr. Eagle: Both Lyrica (Pregabalin) and Duloxetine have anxiolytic effects and can aid in sleep. Using them together may enhance the sedative effect; this might be acceptable for patients with long-term severe sleep disorders, but for individuals without sleep issues, it co...[Read More] Can I Take Doxepin and Rifampin Together Safely?
Managing Diabetes and Severe Depression: Long-Term Medication Concerns
I have diabetes and severe depression? I have diabetes and severe major depressive disorder. Cardiology: Somil S.C. Tab - 40mg or Diltiazem (Cartil) 60mg, take one at bedtime. Psychiatry: At bedtime: Zoloft (Sertraline) 50mg * 2 tablets, Mirtazapine 50mg * 2 tablets, Clonazep...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! For questions related to medication, it is advisable to discuss them directly with your prescribing physician. The medication you inquired about is generally considered relatively safe; however, please avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, and be cautious with th...[Read More] Managing Diabetes and Severe Depression: Long-Term Medication Concerns
CT Scan with Non-Ionic Contrast: Diabetes and Medication Considerations
Non-ionic contrast agent for brain CT (computed tomography)? CT scan of the brain: I have had diabetes for 8 years, and my recent blood tests show normal kidney function. Below are the medications I am taking: Metabolism specialist: Metformin HCl 850 mg, Lyrica (pregabalin) 75 ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Here are the answers to your questions: Question 1: The medication that needs to be discontinued is "Metformin HCl 850mg." The discontinuation period is the day of the CT scan and the two days before and after, totaling five days. For example, if the CT scan is...[Read More] CT Scan with Non-Ionic Contrast: Diabetes and Medication Considerations
Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Blood Sugar Levels and What They Mean
Test values The patient discovered elevated fasting blood glucose levels ranging from 106 to 112 mg/dL through a family member's blood glucose meter. A subsequent hospital check showed a fasting blood glucose level of 107.1 mg/dL and a hemoglobin A1c level of 5.3%. Is this c...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, online user: Fasting blood glucose testing requires an 8-hour fast, with normal values ranging from 70 to 99 mg/dL. The normal value for hemoglobin A1c is below 6. For prediabetes, blood glucose levels are less than 126 mg/dL but greater than 100 mg/dL. In the case mention...[Read More] Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Blood Sugar Levels and What They Mean
Can People with Hepatitis B Safely Receive the HPV Vaccine?
Can individuals with hepatitis B receive the HPV vaccine? Hello, I have hepatitis B, but my liver function and indices are normal. I would like to receive the HPV vaccine, but I'm concerned whether it might trigger an acute hepatitis B flare. I've read reports that the ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! If you are a carrier of hepatitis B, please undergo regular follow-up examinations. You may consult your attending physician about your current liver condition; if it is healthy, you should be eligible for vaccination. Below are the contraindications for receiving the HPV ...[Read More] Can People with Hepatitis B Safely Receive the HPV Vaccine?
Loss of Appetite and Weight: What Tests Should You Consider?
In the past three weeks, there has been a loss of appetite, and weight has decreased by nearly 5 kilograms. What tests should be conducted? Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, and over the past three weeks, I have lost nearly 5 kilograms. I'm unsure i...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description of decreased appetite and weight loss over the past three weeks, it is recommended that you bring your previous examination reports and visit a family medicine outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Loss of Appetite and Weight: What Tests Should You Consider?
Assessing Infection Risks After Medical Procedures: What You Need to Know
Infection issues Hello Doctor, today I went to the hospital for a nuclear medicine imaging examination, during which a medication was injected into the back of my hand. At the end of the procedure, I disposed of the alcohol swab used for hemostasis into a small, open-top sharps c...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if you are concerned about a possible needle-stick injury, it is recommended that you return to the original hospital for an evaluation by the attending physician or an infectious disease specialist to determine if follow-up blood tests are necessary. Please note: online c...[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks After Medical Procedures: What You Need to Know
Is There a Link Between Proteinuria and Birth Control Pills?
Is there a relationship between proteinuria and medication? Recently, a routine check-up showed 1+ protein in my urine. I started taking pre-exposure prophylaxis two months ago. Is there a connection?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Rona: 1. There are various pharmacological mechanisms available to reduce the chances of conception, such as preventing ovulation, interfering with egg development or maturation, or disrupting pregnancy. Currently, the most commonly used pharmacological method to preven...[Read More] Is There a Link Between Proteinuria and Birth Control Pills?
Understanding Neck Tension and Its Impact on Left-Side Symptoms
Shoulder and neck tension along with issues on the left side of the body? Initially, I experienced tightness in my neck and went to an orthopedic specialist for an X-ray, which indicated a straightening of the cervical spine. However, there hasn't been much improvement. Duri...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description of left shoulder joint pain, left lower back and left hip pain, as well as left knee joint pain, it seems that these issues may be related to different areas. Please observe the nature of the pain and any triggering factors more closely. I recomme...[Read More] Understanding Neck Tension and Its Impact on Left-Side Symptoms
Swollen Face Upon Waking: Causes and When to Seek Help
Swollen face? In recent days, I have been waking up with a swollen face. I feel tightness in the upper half of the right side of my face, and sometimes I can noticeably feel the swelling, although it is not painful; rather, it feels tight when I move it. My gums and teeth do not ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Sir: 1. In clinical medicine, edema is classified into localized edema and generalized edema. The causes of edema are numerous; some are due to liver dysfunction leading to insufficient albumin production, which can cause edema. Others may result from heart failure, where i...[Read More] Swollen Face Upon Waking: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding the Effects and Duration of Anxiety Medication: A Guide
Anxiolytic medications I recently visited a doctor who prescribed an anti-anxiety medication, Lyrica (pregabalin) 10 mg capsules. How long does the effect of this medication last? Can it help with sleep?
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, we hope you can discuss it with your attending physician. Please be reminded that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding the Effects and Duration of Anxiety Medication: A Guide
Comprehensive Guide to Managing Systemic Health Issues in Family Medicine
Medical consultation Hello: Over the past six months, I have experienced the following symptoms: shoulder, neck, and back pain; finger joint pain; eczema; acid reflux; constipation; diarrhea; dry cough; chest joint pain; occasional difficulty breathing; and headaches. I have soug...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Anna, I understand from your letter that you have been experiencing a series of physical symptoms over the past six months, and despite repeated medical consultations and treatments, there has been no improvement. Since I am not fully aware of the details of your sympto...[Read More] Comprehensive Guide to Managing Systemic Health Issues in Family Medicine
Understanding Left Armpit Pain, Fever, and Potential Causes
Swelling and pain in the left armpit accompanied by fever? Hello, doctor. Starting from Sunday the 23rd, I began to feel a vague pain and discomfort under my left armpit. By Monday, I noticed soreness and tingling in my left shoulder and arm. That evening, I went to a breast surg...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Based on the situation you described, I cannot determine the specific disease without a personal examination. I recommend that you first adjust your routine and maintain a normal sleep schedule. If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a specialist in endocrinol...[Read More] Understanding Left Armpit Pain, Fever, and Potential Causes
Understanding Facial Numbness: Causes and Concerns for Arthritis Patients
Numbness in the cheeks? Hello, I have recently noticed that the area from the cheekbones down to the chin on both sides of my face experiences unexplained numbness, which gradually subsides after a few hours. I am currently taking immunosuppressive medication for arthritis and am...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, the facial numbness may resolve on its own. Please pay attention to any local pressure or muscle tension. Since I am unaware of your medication, I recommend consulting the physician who prescribed it. If you continue to experience discomfort, it ...[Read More] Understanding Facial Numbness: Causes and Concerns for Arthritis Patients