Skin, Family Medicine FAQ - Page 2

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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


Understanding Symptoms: Nasal Congestion, Chest Pain, Vomiting, and Palpitations

Nasal congestion + runny nose + chest pain + vomiting + palpitations? Hello, I have been experiencing severe nasal congestion since December, which often prevents me from sleeping at night. (When my nose is clear, I have thick white phlegm.) After two to three weeks of significan...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, we should consider the possibility of a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection. Additionally, the symptoms of chest pain and palpitations may indicate a cardiac issue, as potential causes can involve multiple organs. It is recommende...

[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Nasal Congestion, Chest Pain, Vomiting, and Palpitations


Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety

Drug interactions I have been taking duloxetine (Cymbalta) daily for nerve pain. Recently, I have a cold and ear pain and would like to take NSAIDs, but I read online that they should not be taken together. Should I avoid taking them for the entire day, or is there a specific tim...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Taking Duloxetine and NSAIDs together may increase the risk of bleeding, with gastrointestinal bleeding and skin bruising being more common, especially in patients who are older or have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or other chronic conditions (such as liver or kidn...

[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety


Understanding Flu Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help

Suspected influenza, symptoms include generalized weakness and fatigue? A family member began experiencing symptoms (cough, fever, body aches) starting on November 24. They went to the hospital for testing for influenza and COVID-19, both of which were negative. They were prescri...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if your symptoms do not improve, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnostic or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

[Read More] Understanding Flu Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help


Understanding Skin Changes and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Advice

Medical issues Hello, doctor. I recently noticed that I suddenly developed several moles on my body (not too many, but within a short period, I have developed about 5-10 moles, mostly on my upper body and arms). Is this normal? Thank you. Additionally, I have been experiencing so...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The sudden appearance of many moles on your body is mostly related to genetic factors, but it may also be associated with sun exposure, hormonal changes, or a decline in immune function. It is advisable to monitor the characteristics of the moles for any changes. If y...

[Read More] Understanding Skin Changes and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Advice


Unexplained Nipple Holes: What Could Be Causing This Pain?

The nipple has developed two unexplained large holes? Hello, a couple of days ago I went to a hot spring and used an oven (I had no issues while bathing). However, yesterday while showering, I noticed some pain in my nipples. Upon inspection, I found two large holes (considering ...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, you can consult a breast surgeon online to evaluate your symptoms. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

[Read More] Unexplained Nipple Holes: What Could Be Causing This Pain?


Persistent Thirst and Unusual Belly Button Discharge: What to Know

Persistent thirst with discharge from the navel? Hello, Doctor. Recently, I've been feeling very thirsty often, and even after drinking a lot of water, it doesn't help. One day, I noticed a yellowish discharge around my navel (sometimes it appears reddish-brown). I visi...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! For skin issues, it is recommended that you visit a dermatologist. For problems related to thirst, it is advisable to consult with a metabolic specialist.

[Read More] Persistent Thirst and Unusual Belly Button Discharge: What to Know


How Long Can You Store Medications in Aluminum Foil Packaging?

How long can medication in aluminum foil packaging be stored? Hello, how long can medications in aluminum foil packaging be stored without going bad after being picked up from a clinic or hospital? Sometimes I don't take them on time, and they might be stored for a longer pe...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Please take a close look; usually, there is a series of embossed numbers at the top edge of the individual packaging indicating the expiration date. However, if the medication you received is not a complete tablet, it may not be visible. I recommend asking the pharmacy whe...

[Read More] How Long Can You Store Medications in Aluminum Foil Packaging?


Concerns After Massage: Joint Sounds, Skin Reactions, and Health Risks

Please ask your question? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my first massage today. It was at a regular establishment, but I am currently in Vietnam. During the massage, I sometimes heard a cracking sound from my bones; does that indicate any joint issues? Additionally, for...


Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: [Feeling a popping sound in the bones during massage]: This may be the sound produced by the movement of ligaments colliding and rubbing against the bones. [What bloodborne diseases can be transmitted through massage?]: The premise for bloodborne diseases is the pr...

[Read More] Concerns After Massage: Joint Sounds, Skin Reactions, and Health Risks


Flu Vaccine Concerns and Common Health Issues Explained

Vaccine issues and other health concerns? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. If I currently have some allergy symptoms (runny nose) and mild cold symptoms, is it safe to receive the flu vaccine? 2. Recently, I suddenly noticed that the veins on the top of m...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. If there is no fever and only allergy and mild cold symptoms, it is still possible to receive the influenza vaccine. 2. The visible blue veins in the hands are actually venous blood vessels. Common reasons for their prominence include: thin subcutaneous fat (due to agin...

[Read More] Flu Vaccine Concerns and Common Health Issues Explained


Do You Need Special Cleaning After Sharing a Washing Machine?

Is special cleansing or makeup removal necessary? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if clothes washed in a shared washing machine with someone who wears makeup can be cleaned properly. Is any additional cleaning necessary? Furthermore, since I am unsure if items or corners may ha...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Generally, washing machines should not leave any residue of cosmetics after washing, but the cleaning effectiveness may vary among different brands and types of washing machines. If there are concerns, it is advisable to wash the clothes again. 2. If there is a concern ...

[Read More] Do You Need Special Cleaning After Sharing a Washing Machine?


Understanding Your Teen's Health: Urine Changes and Skin Yellowing Concerns

Which direction should be examined? My son is 17 years old and is currently working part-time as an electrical and plumbing apprentice. Recently, he asked me to take him for a check-up due to the following concerns: 1. His urine has a stronger odor (ammonia-like), but it is still...


Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Dear Mr. Rui, Hello. The four data points in your letter did not include the normal reference ranges, but they are within the normal range compared to general laboratory standards. Given the concerns about dehydration and the suspicion of jaundice, you may want to visit a family...

[Read More] Understanding Your Teen's Health: Urine Changes and Skin Yellowing Concerns


Understanding Skin Exudate: A Guide for Long-Term Spinal Injury Patients

Skin exudate Hello, doctor. I am a spinal cord injury patient who has been injured for 10 years. My skin has not been very good due to long-term bed rest. Although I occasionally use a wheelchair, I often experience some eczema on my legs. I can manage it by frequently applying s...


Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, A-Chuan: Please see a dermatologist, as this is not my area of expertise.

[Read More] Understanding Skin Exudate: A Guide for Long-Term Spinal Injury Patients


Can Monkeypox Be Transmitted Through Small Skin Cuts?

Transmission of monkeypox through skin lesions? Hello doctor, could you please tell me about the transmission routes of monkeypox? Today, I cut my hand with a utility knife while unpacking a package at a convenience store. The cut is about 1 centimeter long and only has a little ...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! This should not be contagious, provided that there are no secretions from an infected person. If you have any concerns, please consult an infectious disease specialist.

[Read More] Can Monkeypox Be Transmitted Through Small Skin Cuts?


Understanding Unexplained Internal Itching: Seeking Answers for Your Symptoms

Itching sensation in the body? Hello doctor, I often feel an itch deep within my muscles and nerves (not on the skin surface), which makes me want to move and stretch in unnatural positions to alleviate this sensation, but it only provides temporary relief. This significantly aff...


Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It is recommended to seek evaluation from a neurologist or a sleep clinic. Thank you.

[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Internal Itching: Seeking Answers for Your Symptoms


Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Triggers, and Arginine Intake

Shingles Previously, I was physically exhausted and underwent a blood test, which revealed that I had shingles. Later, I learned that I had chickenpox as a child; however, I have never experienced symptoms related to shingles, such as a rash. I do occasionally have brief episodes...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! A blood test can only confirm if you have had chickenpox. Chickenpox and shingles are diseases caused by the same virus; the initial infection is called chickenpox, and after that, the virus remains dormant in the body. When the immune system is compromised, it can reactiv...

[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Symptoms, Triggers, and Arginine Intake


Understanding Asymmetrical Skin Changes: Common Concerns in Family Medicine

Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Lin, I have two questions for you: Q1. I have noticed for over a decade that the skin in my right armpit appears slightly more protruded than in my left armpit, giving the visual impression that the muscles in my right armpit are larger. This condi...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Although your right axilla appears more prominent than your left, if you haven't felt any lumps and this has persisted for over ten years, it is likely not a serious issue. It may be related to the increased muscle development in your right chest, right back, and r...

[Read More] Understanding Asymmetrical Skin Changes: Common Concerns in Family Medicine


Can Walking on Contaminated Surfaces Lead to Infectious Diseases?

Are there any infectious diseases? Hello, doctor. If I accidentally stepped on a surface where a dead mouse was present, and then later stepped in a puddle to clean the shoe soles, but accidentally splashed the water onto my feet while walking, could this lead to any infectious d...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Usually, normal cleansing is sufficient when there is no skin breakage. If you have concerns, you can use an additional antibacterial cleansing solution for cleaning.

[Read More] Can Walking on Contaminated Surfaces Lead to Infectious Diseases?


Can Feeding Stray Cats Lead to Infectious Disease Risks?

Is there a possibility of infectious diseases? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if feeding stray cats and cleaning the bowls used for the cats poses a risk of transmitting diseases. Thank you.


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Common infectious diseases associated with contact with cats include cat scratch fever, toxoplasmosis, and ringworm (tinea). Cat scratch fever is primarily transmitted through scratches or bites from cats, toxoplasmosis is mainly spread through cat feces, and ringworm is t...

[Read More] Can Feeding Stray Cats Lead to Infectious Disease Risks?


Understanding Monkeypox Vaccine: Efficacy and Injection Methods Explained

Questions related to the monkeypox vaccine? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask two questions related to the monkeypox vaccine: 1. After receiving the vaccine, does it completely prevent infection, or does it significantly reduce the likelihood of infection (I've heard that...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! 1. "According to preliminary literature from abroad, high-risk contacts should receive vaccination within 14 days after the last exposure, with vaccine efficacy reaching approximately 80%. Vaccination within 4 days after the last exposure can achieve optimal preventiv...

[Read More] Understanding Monkeypox Vaccine: Efficacy and Injection Methods Explained


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