Choosing Multivitamins for Mild Thalassemia: What to Avoid
Several doctors have said that I have mild thalassemia? My main issue is that my diet is very unnutritious while working night shifts. I want to supplement with a multivitamin, but I noticed that many multivitamins contain iron. However, I have mild thalassemia and I remember tha...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Mr. Eric: If it is a case of simple Mediterranean anemia, it is indeed not advisable to supplement with large amounts of iron. The iron content in most commercially available multivitamins is not significant. If you are concerned, you can simply supplement with B vitamins. ...[Read More] Choosing Multivitamins for Mild Thalassemia: What to Avoid
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
Leg Cramps at Night: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Calf cramps during the night? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a problem I've been experiencing for the past five years. I start to feel soreness in my calves around 3 or 4 AM, which comes and goes. It gets better when I bind them with something, but that no longer h...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Moses, In your letter, you mentioned that you have been experiencing calf cramps while sleeping for the past five years. This could potentially be a case of Restless Legs Syndrome, which may be related to genetic predisposition or deficiencies in certain vitamins and mi...[Read More] Leg Cramps at Night: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Understanding Low Body Temperature: Should You See a Doctor?
I would like to inquire about the state of hypothermia? Hello Doctor: I previously had an examination at the metabolic department. Aside from being overweight and having a BMI above the normal range, all other values related to pituitary secretion, adrenaline, thyroid function, a...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding the above content, it is not recommended to use hypoglycemic medications if there is no diabetes. When measuring body temperature, it is important to ensure that the method used is correct. Weight control must rely on both diet and proper exercise. It is advised ...[Read More] Understanding Low Body Temperature: Should You See a Doctor?
Should You Continue Taking Centrum Multivitamins? Debunking Myths
Regarding the health supplement "Centrum." Hello, doctor. I recently purchased Centrum multivitamins for daily health maintenance, but I found some articles online mentioning that Centrum is chemically synthesized and that it's better to avoid it if possible, as ch...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Fu: Through various methods of analytical chemistry and biochemistry, humanity has understood the chemical structures of various vitamins since the last century. Many chemical drugs were initially discovered from plants, animals, bacteria, fungi, and other organisms; how...[Read More] Should You Continue Taking Centrum Multivitamins? Debunking Myths
Managing Vitamin B12 and Other Supplements for Oral Health Issues
Medication issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing abnormal oral symptoms and am currently taking medication prescribed by a neurologist to alleviate these symptoms. This includes Rifampicin 4 mg daily, Zanaflex once before bedtime, and Methylcobalamin capsules 500 mcg thre...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello, Miss Lin! Regarding your inquiry about vitamins, vitamin B complex is classified as a water-soluble vitamin, and any excess is generally excreted by the body. Currently, there have been no reported issues related to excessive vitamin B12. Oral ulcers typically heal on thei...[Read More] Managing Vitamin B12 and Other Supplements for Oral Health Issues
Understanding Tongue Pain and Swelling: Common Causes and Remedies
Painful tip of the tongue, swelling under the tongue, swollen lips? A few days ago, I woke up to find that the tip of my tongue was painful, feeling as if it had been burned, even though I hadn't eaten anything too hot in the past few days. The next day, the pain at the tip ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your question, it may be related to infection, allergies, or inflammation... or even related to stress? Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about ...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Pain and Swelling: Common Causes and Remedies
Breathlessness: Understanding Causes and Seeking Medical Help
Shortness of breath? Hello, I would like to consult a doctor on behalf of a friend who has some concerns and is currently unable to see a physician. He often experiences shortness of breath during episodes of heightened emotions, which seems to be more pronounced in situations wh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Anonymous: 1. Your symptoms are likely indicative of hyperventilation syndrome, which primarily stems from pre-existing anxiety disorders or psychosomatic conditions. However, many other diseases can present with similar symptoms, so a differential diagnosis is necess...[Read More] Breathlessness: Understanding Causes and Seeking Medical Help
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Specialist Referrals
Regarding Behçet's disease? Hello Doctor, I have the following symptoms and would like to inquire if they could possibly be related to Behçet's disease; if not, which specialty should I consult for improvement? 1. I have seborrheic dermatitis on my scalp, which causes ...
Dr. Xu Peiqi Reply:
Hello, Miss Fei: Thank you for your questions. Regarding the first issue of scalp itching, I recommend using a shampoo with lower degreasing ability and washing your hair every two days. Due to the nature of your hair, applying lotion to the scalp can be challenging, so the best ...[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Specialist Referrals
Can I Donate Blood While Taking Ginkgo and Multivitamins?
Medication Consultation I am currently taking Ginkgo Biloba (Xunli Ning) and Multivitamin F50. Can I donate blood? Thank you!
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Cai: 1. Essentially, you should consult the physician who prescribed the medication. In addition to considering Cerenin and Alinamin-F, it is also important to take into account any other medications you may be using concurrently. 2. Generally speaking, if you are usin...[Read More] Can I Donate Blood While Taking Ginkgo and Multivitamins?
Do College Students Need Multivitamins? A Guide to Nutritional Health
Vitamin Consultation Hello, as a university student living in a different city, I rely on eating out for my three meals a day. During each meal, I often wonder if I am getting enough nutrition. For breakfast, I usually have a tuna egg pancake with soy milk; for lunch, I typically...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Yi, Thank you for your message. You mentioned that you rely on eating out for all your meals, which raises concerns about your nutritional intake. It is common for individuals who eat out frequently to lack sufficient vegetables and fruits in their diet, often relying on re...[Read More] Do College Students Need Multivitamins? A Guide to Nutritional Health
Managing Dizziness and Headaches: When Medication Isn't Enough
Dizziness and headaches may persist even after taking medication? Hello, doctor. Since mid-August, I have suddenly been experiencing pain in my forehead and episodes of dizziness. The clinic physician prescribed me a medication called Shunao, but it still makes me feel dizzy. I u...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Tsai: 1. Based on your description of taking antihypertensive medication and antianxiety anticonvulsants, if there are any changes in your condition, you should return to your original physician for advice. 2. Due to the unique healthcare environment in our country, ...[Read More] Managing Dizziness and Headaches: When Medication Isn't Enough
Understanding Oral Pain: Causes and Remedies for Tongue Discomfort
Oral issues I previously experienced tongue pain and consulted both oral and ENT specialists at teaching hospitals, as well as clinics and large hospitals. They all noted that my tongue appeared red but didn't find anything significant. After about four visits, the original ...
Dr. Huang Xunying Reply:
Hello: Eating spicy foods can actually numb our sensory nerves, which may improve symptoms. As for why these symptoms occur, it is difficult to provide an accurate diagnosis without a physical examination. Redness may indicate inflammation, and the underlying cause of the inflamm...[Read More] Understanding Oral Pain: Causes and Remedies for Tongue Discomfort
Can Zinc Deficiency Cause Glossitis? Understanding Nutritional Impacts on Oral Health
Nutrition-related inquiries? Could zinc deficiency lead to glossitis? I have been suffering from glossitis recently. Besides visiting a clinic (where the doctor said it was a viral infection), I also went to a large hospital's oral medicine department. Initially, a resident ...
Dr. Huang Xunying Reply:
Research indicates that zinc deficiency can indeed lead to symptoms of taste dysfunction, and some individuals may also experience skin issues or immune function problems. Therefore, if you have such symptoms, it may be worth considering additional zinc supplementation. The recom...[Read More] Can Zinc Deficiency Cause Glossitis? Understanding Nutritional Impacts on Oral Health
Is It Too Early to Start Calcium and Vitamin D3 for Bone Health?
Health supplements Hello doctor, I am currently supplementing with calcium + D3 and magnesium. I would like to ask if taking these two vitamins together would be more effective in preventing osteoporosis? Also, is it too early to start supplementation at the age of 25? Thank you.
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Supplementing with vitamins is acceptable, but it is important to avoid excessive intake and to be aware of any contraindications (such as kidney stones). Thank you for your question, and I wish you good health![Read More] Is It Too Early to Start Calcium and Vitamin D3 for Bone Health?
Understanding Hypothyroidism: Can Multivitamins Interfere with Treatment?
Hypothyroidism Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a recent diagnosis of hypothyroidism. I am currently taking multivitamins. Will there be any interactions with this medication?
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you bring any additional foods, medications, or dietary supplements to your healthcare provider for confirmation to avoid any concerns regarding medication safety. Thank you for your question, and I wish you a speedy recovery![Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism: Can Multivitamins Interfere with Treatment?
Understanding Thyroid Issues and Unexplained Weight Gain
Thyroid issues, weight? Doctor: I currently have a normal weight, but recently I've experienced constipation and an unexplained weight gain of 4 kilograms over the past two weeks. I believe my daily intake of fruits and vegetables is sufficient, and my food consumption is th...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consult with obstetrics and gynecology as well as endocrinology for assistance in evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide accurate diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Chang...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues and Unexplained Weight Gain
Understanding Oral Issues: Causes and Solutions for Bad Breath and Tongue Pain
Oral issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask why I have been experiencing an unusual taste in my mouth for the past week (sometimes it feels sour, but it doesn't seem to be). My tongue occasionally feels prickly. How can I improve this condition?
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● If you have recently taken medication, such as antibiotics, it may sometimes cause changes in taste, which will gradually improve after discontinuation. ● Oral malodor should also consider the possibility of sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux, excessive salivation, or oral hygi...[Read More] Understanding Oral Issues: Causes and Solutions for Bad Breath and Tongue Pain
Does Taking B Vitamins Before a Morning Health Check Affect Results?
Will taking B vitamins before a medical examination affect the test results? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking a B-complex vitamin around 5 PM after a health check-up at 8 AM will affect the test results. Thank you!
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, fasting blood tests are generally required for routine check-ups primarily because consuming sugary or caloric foods can affect fasting blood glucose or lipid results. If it is just a simple B vitamin, theoretically, it should not have a significant...[Read More] Does Taking B Vitamins Before a Morning Health Check Affect Results?
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Answers for Patients
Hyperthyroidism issues? Hello, doctor! I have some questions: 1. A family member has been on medication for hyperthyroidism for three months. T4 levels are now normal, but TSH remains low at 0.03. If they experience a fever or sore throat, should they temporarily stop the medic...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● First, "Antithyroid medications suppress Free T4 levels quickly, but TSH may remain low for some time (even for several months)." Therefore, if TSH has not normalized, you can consult your physician to adjust the medication. Generally, after three months of treatment,...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Answers for Patients