Vitamins, Family Medicine FAQ

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Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know

Blood disorders Hello, Doctor: Last week, I visited the hospital due to feeling unwell, and the doctor conducted a blood test. The report is as follows: Lymphocyte 22% [19][48], MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) 31.4 g/dL [33][37], MCH 29.0 pg [27][31], MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hem...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your blood test report, although the RBC is low, the Hemoglobin is within the normal range, so the anemia is likely not severe. Further analysis of the low MCH and low MCHC suggests that it may be microcytic anemia, with the most common cause being iron deficiency...

[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know


Understanding Elevated Homocysteine Levels and Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular examination and homocysteine levels? Dear Doctor, in my blood test report, there is an item: cardiovascular examination with homocysteine level at 17.53 (reference range 5.9–16 umol/L). This value exceeds the reference range. What should I be aware of, or which dep...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! If there are kidney diseases, medication-related issues, alcohol abuse, or a deficiency of sufficient vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate in the diet, the level of homocysteine in the blood may increase. If only one of these is elevated, it is recommended to supplement wit...

[Read More] Understanding Elevated Homocysteine Levels and Cardiovascular Health


Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice

Please ask your question? Hello doctor, I felt some discomfort in my abdomen while having a bowel movement. At first, it was formed, but then it became somewhat watery. I tried to push to clear it out, but later some sticky, mucus-like substance came out (and the stool was a bit ...


Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Niko: 1. Stool is a mixture of undigested food remnants, digestive juices, and secretions that remain after the digestion and absorption of food through the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 1,500 c.c. of chyme, which is a semi-liquid substance digested by digestive...

[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice


Understanding Leg Cramps and Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions

Muscle cramps and ear congestion? Frequent nighttime calf cramps may indicate a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as potassium, magnesium, or calcium. It is advisable to consult a physician, preferably a primary care doctor or a neurologist, for further evaluation. Regarding...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Calf cramps may be related to a deficiency in electrolytes (sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium) and vitamins (B vitamins, D). Additionally, it may be associated with blood sugar levels, liver function, and kidney function. It is recommended to consult a family medici...

[Read More] Understanding Leg Cramps and Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions


Understanding Occipital Headaches: Causes and Remedies

Occipital headache issues? Hello! Last night around 9 PM, I had instant noodles for dinner and stayed up late working on a report. At that time, I started to feel a slight throbbing pain at the back of my head, which felt cool and pulsating but was bearable. I thought it might be...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your headache may be caused by fatigue or a viral infection. Additionally, it could be a side effect of B vitamins. However, if this is your first experience with such severe headaches accompanied by vomiting, it is advisable to go to the emergency department for further e...

[Read More] Understanding Occipital Headaches: Causes and Remedies


Loss of Taste and Smell: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery Tips

Loss of smell and taste? Hello, my BMI is approximately 37. I tested positive for COVID-19 on September 7 and had a telemedicine consultation with a Western medicine clinic on the same day, where I received medication (my only symptoms at that time were discomfort in my tonsils a...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the sense of smell and taste, most individuals experience improvement within a few weeks to a month, but a small percentage may have persistent symptoms lasting up to six months. Currently, there are no specific medications to treat the ...

[Read More] Loss of Taste and Smell: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery Tips


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 Recurrent Pain Below the Clavicle in Teens

Frequent pain near the clavicle? Hello Doctor, my high school daughter often tells me that she experiences pain below her left and right clavicles. Sometimes it's on the right side, sometimes on the left, and sometimes it feels like the entire area is painful. The pain lasts...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you visit a neurology clinic.

[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Pain Below the Clavicle in Teens


Potential Interactions Between Medications and Supplements for Seniors

I would like to ask if there are any interactions between taking dietary supplements and medications together? My father (67 years old) regularly takes the following 7 medications: 1. Anbang tablet 0.5 mg 2. Lian Duomian tablet 0.25 mg 3. Diphenhydramine coated tablet 25 mg 4...


Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, internet user: Most dietary supplements are designed to help you meet your daily requirements for vitamins and minerals, and they generally have a low risk of interactions. Current research has not found an increased risk of bleeding when taking fish oil and aspirin togeth...

[Read More] Potential Interactions Between Medications and Supplements for Seniors


Understanding High Cholesterol and Low Triglycerides: A Health Inquiry

Total cholesterol is elevated, but triglycerides are low? Hello, doctor. Recently, I went to the hospital for a blood test and found that my total cholesterol is elevated while my triglycerides are low. I have a habit of working out at home (about 3-4 times a week, alternating tr...


Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello, netizen: The cholesterol levels we commonly refer to are composed of triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Therefore, if triglycerides are high, cholesterol levels will inevitably be high; however, high cholesterol does not neces...

[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol and Low Triglycerides: A Health Inquiry


Is High Vitamin B12 a Concern? Understanding Risks and Symptoms

Excessive Vitamin B12 levels Hello Doctor, last year during my health check-up, my vitamin B12 level was elevated at 1033 [197][771]. Should I follow up with another test this year? I usually take B-complex vitamins; could this be affecting my levels? Additionally, I found online...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, there are indeed some articles online regarding vitamin B12 overdose, but there are not many research reports on its effects on health or physiology. The causal relationship with cancer has not been confirmed. However, normal doses of B vitamins should not cause harmful ov...

[Read More] Is High Vitamin B12 a Concern? Understanding Risks and Symptoms


Understanding Hair Loss: Thyroid Issues and Vitamin Impact

Severe hair loss? Hello, doctor. I visited a dermatologist today regarding my hair loss issue. The doctor mentioned that if physical factors are ruled out, it might be androgenetic alopecia. I would like to ask you about this. I have hypothyroidism and have been taking medication...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, generally, multivitamins do not contain hormones. If hair loss occurs, it may be related to endocrine system disorders. You may consult a metabolic specialist for further evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide dia...

[Read More] Understanding Hair Loss: Thyroid Issues and Vitamin Impact


Urgent Hair Loss Concerns: Seeking Solutions and Expert Advice

Urgent! Hair loss issue has worsened? I hope the doctor can provide me with some answers and advice. My family has mentioned that I have been experiencing significant hair loss for a while. However, since they encouraged me to take a multivitamin, the symptoms have improved consi...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if you have concerns about hair loss, it is recommended to first consult a dermatologist for evaluation, as there can be many causes of abnormal hair loss. Please try to stay calm and not overly anxious, as psychological stress can also lead to hair loss. Online consultati...

[Read More] Urgent Hair Loss Concerns: Seeking Solutions and Expert Advice


Understanding Zinc Deficiency: Symptoms, Treatment, and Safety Concerns

Difficult medical conditions Hello, doctor. I would like to ask two questions. First, is there any toxicity associated with heating glucosamine zinc tablets? I usually dissolve them in hot water before taking them. Second, I have an anal fissure, chronic acne on my skin, oily and...


Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Soaking in regular warm water may damage zinc. Zinc is found in many types of food, such as seafood (especially oysters), whole grains, cereals, nuts, meats (red meat and poultry), legumes, and dairy products. If you typically do not lack these foods in your diet, you shou...

[Read More] Understanding Zinc Deficiency: Symptoms, Treatment, and Safety Concerns


Interactions Between Supplements and Anticoagulants: What You Need to Know

Concerns about interactions between dietary supplements and medications, thank you? Hello Dr. Liao: I would like to ask if it is safe to take B-complex vitamins that contain iron while on anticoagulant medication (such as Baoshantong). Are there any precautions I should be aware ...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there should not be any significant interactions with B vitamins. However, please take the iron supplements as recommended, as they have their own indications. Ideally, you should discuss this with your prescribing physician, as online consultati...

[Read More] Interactions Between Supplements and Anticoagulants: What You Need to Know


Understanding Saliva Issues: Causes and Solutions for Dry Mouth

Saliva issues Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing frequent shoulder and neck pain, as well as knee pain and numbness in my legs. I was considering taking some B vitamins or a multivitamin to alleviate these symptoms, but every time I take them, I experience dry mouth...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you consult a rheumatologist to assess your condition. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to an in-person visit and cannot provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

[Read More] Understanding Saliva Issues: Causes and Solutions for Dry Mouth


Leg Weakness and Numbness After Heavy Drinking: What to Do?

Alcohol abuse can lead to numbness and weakness in the legs? Hello Doctor: I have been drinking 2-3 bottles of red wine every day for the past three months, and recently I have noticed weakness and numbness in my legs, making it nearly impossible for me to walk. Which department ...


Dr. Huang Hongshuo Reply:
Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can lead to malnutrition, particularly deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, and it also increases the risk of chronic pancreatitis, alcoholic liver disease (fatty liver or cirrhosis), pharyngeal cancer, and esophageal cancer. Weakness and...

[Read More] Leg Weakness and Numbness After Heavy Drinking: What to Do?


Can Patients with Favism Safely Use B-Complex Supplements?

Can individuals with G6PD deficiency take pharmaceutical-grade B vitamins? After starting college, the child's physical condition has been deteriorating. I would like to ask the physician if the child with G6PD deficiency can take Heptaminol EX or Aspartame EX? Active ingred...


Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Lanting, In response to your inquiry regarding the health supplements He Li Ta Ming EX and Ai Si Fei Te EX, both products are composed of a combination of B vitamins and do not contain substances that would trigger hemolytic reactions in patients with G6PD deficiency. T...

[Read More] Can Patients with Favism Safely Use B-Complex Supplements?


Medication Consultation: Managing Antihistamines and Supplements Safely

Medication consultation Hello Doctor, I am currently taking the following medications: 1. Xyzal (levocetirizine dihydrochloride) 5mg, an antihistamine (*for the treatment of urticaria) → The doctor advised me to take one tablet after breakfast and one after dinner, totaling 2 t...


Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: The first medication you are taking is an antihistamine, and it is recommended not to use it long-term once the urticaria subsides. You may also consider testing for allergens to identify what substances you are allergic to. The second medication is a female hormone therap...

[Read More] Medication Consultation: Managing Antihistamines and Supplements Safely


Experiencing Foot Numbness After Taking Japanese B-Complex Supplements?

After taking the Japanese B-complex supplement, I experienced numbness in the soles of my feet? Hello Doctor: I am a 54-year-old woman with two children, currently taking medications for heart disease, pseudodiabetes, and sleeping pills (taken before bed). I have been experiencin...


Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: If you confirm that the numbness in your feet is caused by taking the medication, you may consider discontinuing it. Aside from the elderly, those with poor dietary habits, or individuals with gastrointestinal absorption issues, vitamins can typically be obtained from natu...

[Read More] Experiencing Foot Numbness After Taking Japanese B-Complex Supplements?


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