Assessing COVID-19 Exposure Risk After Close Contact with a Colleague
Risk of Infection Hello Doctor, I was informed today that a colleague of mine has tested positive for COVID-19. I sat next to this colleague during a meeting for two hours two days ago, and we were very close to each other. Both of us were wearing masks during that time, but I am...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Since both you and your colleague are wearing masks, the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 from your colleague is generally lower, but it cannot be said that there is no risk at all. 2. If you are concerned about contracting COVID-19, you can first check yourself using...[Read More] Assessing COVID-19 Exposure Risk After Close Contact with a Colleague
Understanding Prolonged Diarrhea and Weight Loss: Key Questions for Family Medicine
More detailed questions? Hello Doctor, I am the person who asked question #206159. I have more related questions today as mentioned in the previous article. My mother has been experiencing diarrhea for two months, accompanied by weight loss, dropping from around 55 kg to 48 kg. H...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! If probiotics are helpful, you can continue taking them and gradually reduce the dosage. It's important to maintain a balanced diet that includes all six essential nutrients. Additionally, inquire about the source of the eggs and whether they are cooked, considering t...[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Diarrhea and Weight Loss: Key Questions for Family Medicine
Understanding Chronic Diarrhea and Weight Loss: A Guide for Families
Diarrhea and weight loss? Hello doctor, I hope you can help me with my concerns. This is regarding my mother. Recently, she has been experiencing diarrhea for two months, and she has lost weight. Every weekday at noon, whenever she eats, she starts to have abdominal pain and rush...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Since diarrhea can lead to weight loss, please continue your treatment in the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department. If your weight continues to decrease by more than 5-10% and the cause remains undetermined, please consult the endocrinology department.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Diarrhea and Weight Loss: A Guide for Families
Which is Better for Blood Sugar: Sweet Potatoes or Potatoes?
How to eat breakfast for blood sugar control? I recently had my blood sugar tested again, and the first result was 163. After taking medication for a month, it was 135. I used to have two eggs for breakfast, but my nutritionist advised me to have one egg along with vegetables or ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, Lan Yue: Blood sugar control includes diet, exercise, weight management, and medication. Sweet potatoes and potatoes are both starchy foods; sweet potatoes contain more dietary fiber, but consuming either in excess can raise blood sugar levels. It is recommended to discuss...[Read More] Which is Better for Blood Sugar: Sweet Potatoes or Potatoes?
Traveling Abroad with Hypertension and Diabetes: Essential Tips for Patients
Patients with hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia traveling abroad? Hello, doctor. I am a long-term patient with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, and I regularly monitor my condition. I exercise daily and administer insulin. Can I take a short-haul flight (...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Fu: For patients with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes who are on long-term medication and regularly monitored, maintaining good hygiene and lifestyle habits, and who do not have complications and are prepared with their medications and medical history for tra...[Read More] Traveling Abroad with Hypertension and Diabetes: Essential Tips for Patients
Understanding Temperature Fluctuations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Body temperature issues Hello, I am 27 years old. My usual body temperature measured with a home thermometer is around 36.5-37.5 degrees Celsius. However, for the past two days, it has suddenly dropped to around 35-35.5 degrees Celsius, accompanied by symptoms such as headache, d...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Li Hsin-yun: 1. Humans possess physiological mechanisms to regulate and maintain core body temperature. When there is a need to release excess heat, the body cools down by increasing blood circulation to the skin and sweating. Conversely, to retain internal heat, the bo...[Read More] Understanding Temperature Fluctuations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding the Effects and Duration of Blood Pressure Medication: A Guide
Antihypertensive medications? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the blood pressure medication, Amlodipine/Benazepril 80/5 mg. How long does it take for the medication to take effect after taking it? How long does its effect last? Is it considered a long-acting, intermediat...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: The combination medication Amlodipine 80/5 mg is a long-acting antihypertensive that is taken once daily. The pharmacokinetics of the two components do not interfere with each other. Amlodipine begins to take effect approximately 30 to 50 minutes after administrati...[Read More] Understanding the Effects and Duration of Blood Pressure Medication: A Guide
Understanding Nighttime Hypertension: Is It More Dangerous?
Nighttime blood pressure is higher than daytime blood pressure? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you, but I have a question regarding my blood pressure. About a year ago, I measured my blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer, and my systolic pressure was around 120-130, oc...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Generally, blood pressure should be maintained below 130/80 mmHg. Different populations may have different targets set by physicians, so it is advisable to discuss and understand your specific target values with your doctor. If you experience low blood pressure with sympto...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Hypertension: Is It More Dangerous?
Managing Arrhythmia: The Impact of Shift Work on Health
Arrhythmia Due to working rotating shifts for seven years, I have recently experienced health issues and was diagnosed with arrhythmia after a hospital examination. I am currently undergoing treatment with medication. My family is constantly opposing my shift work. Can the doctor...
Dr. Li Zhenggang Reply:
Hello: The requirements for a diagnostic certificate depend on each physician's perspective! It is recommended that you discuss the need for a diagnostic certificate with your attending physician. Additionally, if you believe that shift work is indeed causing your arrhythmia...[Read More] Managing Arrhythmia: The Impact of Shift Work on Health
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal pain? On January 31st, around 2 AM, I suddenly experienced abdominal pain and had to go to the bathroom about 4 to 5 times. The next day, on February 1st, I went to see a doctor. After taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, I stopped having diarrhea, but my sto...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms mainly include left lower abdominal pain and diarrhea. You may need to consider the following conditions: diverticulitis, urinary tract infection, gynecological disorders, gastroenteritis, etc. If the left lower abdominal pain persists without improvement or ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Asthma Issues Triggered by Sinusitis in Patients
Sinusitis triggers asthma issues? Hello, doctor. My mother had a cold last week that triggered her sinusitis (she has a history of sinusitis). It has not improved after a week. Three days ago, she visited a doctor and was prescribed antibiotics, which have helped her condition sl...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Sinusitis is classified as an upper respiratory tract infection, but it can potentially progress to a lower respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia. If you experience persistent tachycardia accompanied by shortness of breath, it is advisable to seek medical treatmen...[Read More] Managing Asthma Issues Triggered by Sinusitis in Patients
Understanding Blood Test Results: Impact of Fasting on Diabetes Diagnosis
Please ask your questions regarding blood tests? Hello, doctor. Last November (2023), I experienced some health issues. Starting around June 2023, I noticed increased appetite, thirst, and urination, but my weight did not decrease. I went to the hospital for a consultation and ha...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang: 1. Your questions should be discussed with your primary care physician, as there are many factors that need to be considered. 2. According to the American Diabetes Association's diagnostic criteria for diabetes: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL af...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Impact of Fasting on Diabetes Diagnosis
Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Key Questions for Your Family Doctor
Please provide your questions regarding diabetes? I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia last November. At that time, my lab results were as follows: fasting blood glucose 143 mg/dL, HbA1c 9.9%, total cholesterol 229 mg/dL, triglycerides 202 mg/dL, HDL cholestero...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello Mr. Chang: According to the consensus of international diabetes associations, a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of less than 6.5% for at least 3 months without the use of antihyperglycemic medications indicates that blood sugar is temporarily normal, and medication may no...[Read More] Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Key Questions for Your Family Doctor
Optimal Dosing Schedule for Cephalexin in Dogs: Expert Insights
Regarding the use of the antibiotic cephalexin? Hello Dr. Liao. Recently, an 8-year-old puppy was prescribed the antibiotic cephalexin due to a stye. The pharmacist advised administering it four times a day after each meal and before bedtime. I would like to ask about the timing,...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the ideal medication administration time is every six hours. However, considering the convenience of daily routines, the dosing schedule has been slightly adjusted. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diag...[Read More] Optimal Dosing Schedule for Cephalexin in Dogs: Expert Insights
Consultation on Trichomoniasis Infection and Treatment Options
Consultation on Trichomoniasis Infection Issues Hello Doctor, about two years ago I was diagnosed with a Trichomonas vaginalis infection, and at that time, the doctor prescribed "Johnson" Metronidazole tablets for seven days. After completing the treatment, I did not re...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, trichomoniasis infection requires complete treatment for both partners. The current symptoms need further investigation to confirm the underlying cause and to ensure appropriate treatment. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provi...[Read More] Consultation on Trichomoniasis Infection and Treatment Options
Understanding Mid-Rib Pain: Causes and Next Steps for Relief
Dull pain at the edge of the costal cartilage of the 7th rib on the right lung? The patient experiences dull pain at the "cartilage edge" of the 7th rib on the right lung. 1. Timing of Occurrence: - After meals while sitting on a chair and napping with arms on the ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The dull pain along the edge of your costal cartilage, particularly near the seventh rib on the right side of your chest, could be due to several reasons. Besides costochondritis, it is important to consider potential issues with deeper tissues and organs, such as the diap...[Read More] Understanding Mid-Rib Pain: Causes and Next Steps for Relief
Persistent Nausea, Headaches, and Digestive Issues: What Could It Be?
Persistent vomiting, headache, constipation, and runny nose? Hello Doctor, I started feeling nauseous last Tuesday. On Tuesday morning, without having eaten anything, I vomited the food from Monday night. From 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, I vomited more than four times, almost every hour...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Rabbit: 1. There are many causes of nausea and vomiting, including: neurological (migraine, inner ear disorders, brain lesions), psychiatric (emotional or environmental stress, cyclical vomiting syndrome in children, psychogenic vomiting), metabolic (renal failure, me...[Read More] Persistent Nausea, Headaches, and Digestive Issues: What Could It Be?
Unexplained Symptoms: Navigating Complex Health Issues in Family Medicine
Unknown etiology? My normal body temperature ranges from 36.4 to 37.3 degrees Celsius. I have a history of fatty liver disease, and my mother and her relatives have issues related to hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and gastrointestinal problems. My father's side has a history ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Lseedead: 1. Since you have been hospitalized and undergone many tests that all returned normal results, I believe that given your age, there shouldn't be any significant issues. 2. The pulmonologist and infectious disease specialist have reviewed your imaging and ...[Read More] Unexplained Symptoms: Navigating Complex Health Issues in Family Medicine
Do Cold and Inflammation Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Blood sugar issues in health examinations? During the health examination, I experienced a cold and inflammation of the glans. The report showed a fasting blood glucose level of 106. I would like to know if a cold and glans inflammation can affect fasting blood glucose levels.
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello ACDC060: Possible reasons for elevated blood sugar levels before meals include diet, insufficient fasting time, diseases, infections, stress, and medication use. It is recommended to monitor blood sugar levels again once the body has recovered to determine if there is a pro...[Read More] Do Cold and Inflammation Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Managing Cholesterol: When to Medicate and Considerations for Pregnancy
Cholesterol issues Hello, doctor. I am 34 years old. In my 2018 health check-up report, my cholesterol was 232 and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was 159. My father has hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. In 2023, I briefly took Lipitor for one month, during which my chole...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, Sasa: The total cholesterol level for the general population should be kept below 200 mg/dL, with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol below 130 mg/dL. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol should be maintained above 40 mg/dL for men and above 50 mg/dL for women....[Read More] Managing Cholesterol: When to Medicate and Considerations for Pregnancy