Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Prediabetes: Key Insights
Prediabetes Blood Sugar Issues Hello Dr. Huang: I am 42 years old, with a standard build (166 cm/55 kg). At the beginning of January, my blood donation report indicated a hemoglobin A1c of 6.5, and I was advised to seek medical attention. Two weeks later, I visited the doctor, an...
Dr. Huang Xunying Reply:
Generally, postprandial blood glucose levels are higher than preprandial levels; however, this may vary depending on dietary content and individual factors such as insulin sensitivity and the secretion levels of insulin and glucagon. It is recommended to follow up with your physi...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Prediabetes: Key Insights
Persistent Fever of 38°C for a Month: Seeking Answers Beyond Basic Tests
Persistent fever of 38 degrees Celsius for one month? I started having a fever in early April. The first emergency diagnosis was a urinary tract infection, but I didn't have any other discomfort aside from the fever. I was prescribed antibiotics and antipyretics, but the fev...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, you have been experiencing elevated body temperature for over a month, and it is indeed necessary to undergo further evaluation. It is recommended that you visit a large hospital's infectious disease department to assess whether there may still be non-infectious cause...[Read More] Persistent Fever of 38°C for a Month: Seeking Answers Beyond Basic Tests
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Immune System Concerns
Mild fever with elevated body temperature? Hello Doctor, since April 22, my body temperature has been elevated, with ear temperature around 37-37.5 degrees Celsius. The next day, I visited a pulmonologist, and I had increased sputum production in my lungs, so I was prescribed med...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the primary cause of fever is still likely to be an infection. If the fever persists, other causes should also be investigated. It is advisable to have an evaluation by an infectious disease specialist. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits an...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Immune System Concerns
Chronic Headaches and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Relief
Severe headache and lower back pain? I have been experiencing chronic headaches (since kindergarten, and they have been getting worse). I previously underwent a brain scan at Gengxin Hospital and an MRI at Taipei Heping Hospital, both of which reported no issues and diagnosed me ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Ko83277, The long-term headache symptoms you described appear to be indicative of severe chronic migraine, which significantly impacts your daily life. If treatment at one hospital has not been effective, you might consider seeking a second opinion at another neurology ...[Read More] Chronic Headaches and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Relief
Understanding the Contagiousness of Chickenpox and Blister Infections
The contagiousness of blisters? Hello, doctor. Recently, our school has switched to remote learning due to confirmed cases. Just the day before yesterday, a friend in the dormitory showed me that there was a chickenpox infection on their floor, so they started disinfecting again....
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Gina: 1. Chickenpox (Varicella) refers to the disease caused by the initial infection with the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is most commonly seen in children under the age of 10, although it can occasionally occur in young adults. The early symptoms resemble thos...[Read More] Understanding the Contagiousness of Chickenpox and Blister Infections
Essential Tests for Diabetes Diagnosis and Dietary Guidance
Dear Dr. Hsiao: What tests should be done to diagnose diabetes? When visiting a medical laboratory for tests, what should be checked? Should I test for fasting blood glucose levels, hemoglobin, or other items? Additionally, if someone has diabetes, can they consume sugar-free bev...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Luka: According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c. HbA1c ≥6.5...[Read More] Essential Tests for Diabetes Diagnosis and Dietary Guidance
Understanding Muscle Pain: Concerns About Discomfort Near the Armpit
Suspected muscle pain? Hello doctor, near the joint under my left armpit, I feel a protrusion and some pain when I raise my arm. I'm not sure if it's a muscle strain, but my family says it feels like there's no hard mass, just muscle, which makes me quite worried. ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Dada: 1. Pain and tenderness in the left axilla may commonly indicate issues such as muscle strain, neuropathy, pneumothorax, myocardial ischemia, infection, tumors, or shingles, among others. If the pain persists, it is advisable to discuss this with your primary care...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Pain: Concerns About Discomfort Near the Armpit
Post-Cold Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice for Throat and Chest Issues
Inquiry after a cold? Hello Doctor, about a week ago I started feeling discomfort in my throat and I was worried that I might have contracted a virus, especially since many classmates in my class frequently cough without wearing masks. I visited an ENT specialist, who said that m...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsiao Yi: 1. Based on your description and medical history, the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 is very low. I personally agree with your attending physician's assessment that it may be due to post-nasal drip. 2. Please avoid ice products or cold drinks, mainta...[Read More] Post-Cold Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice for Throat and Chest Issues
Understanding the Benefits of Warm Water for Health and Wellness
Health maintenance issues? Hello, Doctor: Due to my long-term physical weakness, when I feel unwell, doctors or elders often advise me to drink warm water. I have the following two questions: 1. Does warm water really help alleviate discomfort? What are the effects of warm water ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! From a theoretical standpoint, drinking water at any temperature does not have long-term effects on the human body (except for very hot water, which can cause burns to the mouth, esophagus, etc., but that is not within our discussion). There are only a few studies indicati...[Read More] Understanding the Benefits of Warm Water for Health and Wellness
Unexplained Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health
I've been experiencing unusual health conditions for a while and I'm unsure whether I should seek medical attention? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing some symptoms that I am unsure are due to psychological stress or a viral infection. My condition fluct...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you first consult your family physician for a basic evaluation. If there are specific issues, you can be referred to other specialty clinics. It is important to maintain a regular routine, ensure a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and get ...[Read More] Unexplained Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health
Understanding Elevated Ear Temperature: When to Seek Medical Help
In recent weeks, there has been an elevated ear temperature? I initially experienced pain in my ear and consulted a pharmacist who prescribed medication, which helped significantly. However, a week later, I developed a sore throat, upper jaw pain, and post-nasal drip. I visited a...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss House: 1. The transmission of Wuhan Pneumonia is primarily due to direct contact with secretions or droplets containing the coronavirus. The estimated incubation period is mostly between 1 to 14 days, with the most common duration being around 5 days. Clinical manifes...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Ear Temperature: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Fever, Dizziness, and Night Sweats: A Family Medicine Perspective
Fever, dizziness, night sweats? Hello doctor, I have experienced the following symptoms multiple times during episodes of cold and fever: sudden onset of profuse sweating, a drop in body temperature, tinnitus, blurred vision, and gradually diminishing consciousness. In those mome...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description of experiencing chills and near fainting after a cold and fever, your concerns are valid. If you suspect that medication may be the cause, please compile a list of the medications you have used in the past for your physician's reference. If i...[Read More] Understanding Fever, Dizziness, and Night Sweats: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Sleep Issues and Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep issues related to the head? Since this Monday, I have been experiencing a feeling of pressure in my head upon waking up, and I haven't been feeling very refreshed in the mornings. Additionally, I've had some ear pain. After seeing ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, you have acute symptoms and changes after taking medication. Since we cannot assess your condition online, I recommend that you visit a medical facility for evaluation and treatment. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery![Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues and Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness
Inquiry about Emergency Contraceptive Pills Hello, I would like to ask about taking the Marvelon contraceptive pill (21 days). If I start taking the first pill of the first pack on the fourth day of my period, should I also start the first pill of the second pack on the fourth da...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! "When used correctly, combined oral contraceptives have an annual failure rate of only about 1%; however, if doses are missed or taken incorrectly, the failure rate may increase." According to the medication's prescribing information: "● Management of m...[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness
Understanding Jaw and Neck Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Swelling and pain in the submandibular region? Hello, I have had swelling on the left and right sides of my neck near the jaw for a year, and in the last three weeks, the swelling on the right side has increased! It is not visible to the naked eye and can only be felt when presse...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Anonymous: 1. There are many causes for neck masses. Considering your age and description, it is important to consider possibilities such as suppurative masses, lymphadenitis, tuberculous lymphadenitis, thyroiditis, goiter, lipoma, fibroma, sebaceous cyst, benign neur...[Read More] Understanding Jaw and Neck Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Heat Sensation in Hands and Neck: Possible Causes and Solutions
Heat sensation in the palms and back of the neck? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing chest tightness, warmth in my palms, and heat in the back of my neck lately. I went for an internal medicine check-up, including X-rays and blood tests, which showed no signs of inflammation ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsu: 1. Based on your statements and records, it is difficult to determine the exact issue. 2. I can personally suggest maintaining a regular diet with three balanced meals a day, avoiding high-fat, high-sugar, and overly salty foods. Additionally, do not overeat; it is...[Read More] Understanding Heat Sensation in Hands and Neck: Possible Causes and Solutions
Should I Stop My Medication? Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Should I stop the medication first, and which specialty should I consult? Last week on the 25th, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy due to symptoms of bloating, chest tightness, and loss of appetite. The results showed esophageal ulcers, excessive gastric acid, gastr...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, since your condition has just improved after treatment by a physician but new symptoms have emerged, it is advisable for you to return to the original medical facility for follow-up treatment.[Read More] Should I Stop My Medication? Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Which Specialist to Consult?
Feeling unwell but unsure where the problem lies? Hello, Doctor Yeh. I would like to ask about the following symptoms I am experiencing and which specialty I should consult to address my sleep issues: 1. It has become more difficult for me to fall asleep compared to before, and...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you visit a cardiology clinic. Additionally, if you are experiencing weight loss, you may want to consult with an endocrinology specialist.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Which Specialist to Consult?
Can You Safely Combine Blood Pressure Medications with Viagra?
Can medications be taken together? Currently, I am taking antihypertensive medications (Cozaar 50mg and Diovan 160mg) daily. Can I also take Viagra or similar medications? If so, will there be any side effects? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
You already have hypertension and are currently taking two antihypertensive medications. It is not advisable to self-administer medications like Viagra, as this may lead to significant side effects, such as a drop in blood pressure and decreased cardiac output. If you have any co...[Read More] Can You Safely Combine Blood Pressure Medications with Viagra?
Understanding Bloating and Elevated White Blood Cell Count: What You Need to Know
Abdominal bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort, elevated white blood cell count? Hello, in the past two to three days, I have frequently experienced slight pain in the upper abdomen after eating, along with easy fatigue. However, my bowel movements are normal, and I do not ha...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, the elevated white blood cell count you mentioned may indicate an inflammatory response, possibly due to an infection or autoimmune reaction in some part of the body. It could also be related to gastrointestinal inflammation or other inflammatory conditions. You may contin...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Elevated White Blood Cell Count: What You Need to Know