Anemia, Internal Medicine FAQ

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Understanding Subtle Body Tremors: Causes and Solutions

There is a slight tremor in the body that is not visible to the naked eye? Since early February, after eating something bad and thinking it was food poisoning, I experienced diarrhea and went to the emergency room. Since then, I have often felt my heart racing, and when I get anx...


Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello: In addition to electrolyte abnormalities, endocrine dysfunctions such as hyperthyroidism can also lead to symptoms like tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, diarrhea, and tremors. If your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it is recommended that you follow up with an...

[Read More] Understanding Subtle Body Tremors: Causes and Solutions


Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Elevated white blood cell count? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I have mild thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. Recently, my blood tests have shown elevated white blood cell counts, sometimes over 100,000 and at times 110,000, but the differential white...


Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user's white blood cell count is between 10,000 and 11,000 (normal is ≤10,000), which is within a reasonable range and should not be a concern. If there are any doubts, it is advisable to consult a hematologist for further evaluation. Thank you.

[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts: When to Seek Further Evaluation


Understanding Hemoglobin A1c: Concerns About Blood Sugar and Anemia

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Hello Doctor, I have some questions I would like to ask you: I had a blood test done in December. Since both of my parents have diabetes and my weight has decreased from 64 kg in mid-August to only 59 kg recently, I am very anxious about my blood sugar...


Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is an indicator of the average blood glucose levels over the past three months. The most significant factor affecting it is the blood glucose level itself. The primary influences on blood glucose are diet and lifestyle. Mild anemia does not have...

[Read More] Understanding Hemoglobin A1c: Concerns About Blood Sugar and Anemia


Understanding SLE: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) Hello, Director Gao. I am 33 years old and have been experiencing various illnesses and unexplained pains over the past few years, but no cause has been identified. I have also consulted a psychiatrist and taken medication without improvement (s...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A slight fever can still be concerning, and I recommend visiting a rheumatologist. Based on the information you provided, it is not possible to confirm whether there is an issue with your immune system, so it would be best for a physician to exa...

[Read More] Understanding SLE: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options


Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide

When blood pressure drops during dialysis and heart rate also decreases, how should it be managed? Hello, Doctor Wu: I have been a dialysis patient for over a year and have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. I also have coronary artery disease and mild arrhythmia. Last y...


Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For heart-related issues, please consult a cardiologist. In cases of hypotension during dialysis, the on-site nephrologist should provide immediate feedback. Each situation is different, so please respond according to the circumstances at that time. Common management strategies i...

[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide


Could My Blood Test Results Indicate Thalassemia?

Am I experiencing Mediterranean anemia? Hello doctor, I recently tested for anemia and my results are as follows: MCHC 30.5, MCH 19.8, MCV 65.0, RBC 6.71, RDW 16.8, TIBC 356, HbA 97.4%, HbA2 2.6%, HGB H (Positive). Does this indicate thalassemia?


Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Based on the data above, it is possible. Therefore, it is best to seek medical attention at a hospital. Thank you for your message!

[Read More] Could My Blood Test Results Indicate Thalassemia?


Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice

Inquiry about the red text on the health check-up report? Hello Dr. Lin: I just received my health check report and noticed some red flags that are causing me a lot of concern. I would like to ask if there are any of these red flags that can be improved through daily habits, such...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the MCH value is primarily for reference; any issues related to anemia should be assessed based on hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Urinary ketones may test positive after prolonged fasting, and the presence of leukocyte esterase in urine suggests a possible urinary tract inflammat...

[Read More] Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice


Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Abnormal abdominal pain Hello, doctor. I am 29 years old and I have ankylosing spondylitis and chronic anemia (with an average hemoglobin level of about 20). I'm not sure if this is related to the events I've experienced. The first incident occurred when I was around 20...


Dr. Zheng Weijun Reply:
Hello, thank you for your detailed description. First, regarding your mention that "the average hemoglobin does not exceed 20," this value is within the normal range; the normal hemoglobin level for women is 12–16 g/dL, so your current hemoglobin level may not be abnorm...

[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help


Can My Son Continue Taking Salazopyrin for Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Can I continue taking Salazopyrin? Hello Doctor, my son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3 years. For the past year and 4 months, he has been taking 2 tablets of Salazopyrin daily (without NSAIDs). Previously, he was on NSAIDs (without Salazo...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: 1) If my son experiences dizziness when getting up from a lying position due to mild anemia caused by the use of Salazopyrin, and no other causes for the dizziness can be identified, then we must weigh the two harms and c...

[Read More] Can My Son Continue Taking Salazopyrin for Ankylosing Spondylitis?


Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Levels in Health Reports

The health check report has red text? Based on your health check report, your hemoglobin (Hb) level is 11.2 g/dL, hematocrit (Ht) is 35.4%, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is 62 mg/dL, all of which are below the standard values. You should pay attention to the follo...


Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Please transfer to the hematology department. A low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level of 62 is still within an acceptable range for most individuals.

[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Levels in Health Reports


Understanding Your Diabetes Risk: Key Health Check Insights

Questions related to diabetes? Every year, I participate in my company's health check-up. I am 35 years old, 179 cm tall, and weigh between 55 to 56 kg. I have always been slim and unable to gain weight since childhood, and I maintain a regular exercise routine. I have mild ...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can undergo an oral glucose tolerance test at the Metabolism Clinic. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Understanding Your Diabetes Risk: Key Health Check Insights


Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?

Does ankylosing spondylitis lead to low white blood cell or red blood cell counts? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, 20 years old, and I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3.5 years. I am currently undergoing stable treatment. I would l...


Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Ankylosing spondylitis is not a common disease, and leukopenia or anemia may occur in some patients. Chronic inflammation over time can potentially lead to anemia. It is recommended to follow up with your physician for differential diagnosis. Thank you.

[Read More] Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?


Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?

Does ankylosing spondylitis lead to a decrease in white blood cells or red blood cells? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis, diagnosed 3.5 years ago and currently undergoing stable treatment. I would like to ask you, excluding the effects of ...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Ankylosing spondylitis does not cause leukopenia; however, untreated long-term ankylosing spondylitis may lead to mild anemia due to chronic inflammation suppressing bone marrow hematopoiesis. Additionally, if severe pain or poor control necess...

[Read More] Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?


Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk

Blood test report Based on the provided data, it is challenging to definitively diagnose acute myeloid leukemia (AML) without further clinical context and additional tests. However, several key laboratory findings may raise suspicion for hematological disorders, including AML: 1...


Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
Please consult a specialized hematologist. Diagnosing a condition cannot rely solely on blood tests, as it can be very dangerous. Thank you.

[Read More] Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk


Assessing Mediterranean Anemia vs. Iron Deficiency: Next Steps and Nutritional Support

Diagnosis of Mediterranean or Iron Deficiency Anemia WBC 5.8, RBC 5.49, HB 11.3, HCT 35.2, PLT 243, MCV 64, MCH 20.6, MCHC 32.3, RDW 15.10, PDW 16.8, HB-A1 94.4, HB-A2 5.6, HB-F 0.00. The test results suggest a possible diagnosis of thalassemia. Should I go to the hospital for fu...


Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you bring the report to a consultation with a family medicine, internal medicine, or hematology clinic. Thank you.

[Read More] Assessing Mediterranean Anemia vs. Iron Deficiency: Next Steps and Nutritional Support


Left Rib Pain on Release: Possible Causes and Next Steps

Pain upon rebound when pressing on the left rib cage? Hello doctor, for the past few months, I have been experiencing discomfort near the 10th rib on the left side of my body. There is no pain when I press on it, but I feel a sharp pain when I release the pressure. I also often e...


Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Regarding rib issues, please visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic. Wishing you health and safety.

[Read More] Left Rib Pain on Release: Possible Causes and Next Steps


Understanding Exercise Fatigue and Heart Issues: A Patient's Journey

Exercise, fatigue, heart problems? Dear Doctor, For the past few months, I have been feeling more fatigued than usual. I feel weak when standing and cannot walk for long periods. Additionally, my exercise capacity has decreased significantly; I often experience an inexplicable ...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is possible that the issue may be due to physiological or psychological factors. I recommend starting with a visit to a family medicine specialist to check your basic health status, such as whether you have anemia or if your endocrine system is funct...

[Read More] Understanding Exercise Fatigue and Heart Issues: A Patient's Journey


Understanding Low Hemoglobin Levels: Symptoms, Treatment, and Next Steps

Understanding the Health Check Report dated February 27, 2023? I would like to understand how to treat my current hemoglobin level of 8.2. My lab results show RBC 4.18, Hgb 8.2, Hct 29.6, MCV 70.8, MCH 19.6, and MCHC 27.7. I often experience dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, l...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the issues you mentioned involve several different specialties. For anemia, please continue taking iron supplements. Heavy menstrual flow may be a cause of iron deficiency anemia, so please consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist to see if medication adjustments can help...

[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin Levels: Symptoms, Treatment, and Next Steps


Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use

Could I be experiencing bone marrow suppression as a side effect after taking Salazopyrin? Hello, Doctor Gao. I would like to ask you some additional questions. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in my buttocks. Since my blood test on March 2n...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) The package insert for Salazopyrin mentions rare side effects such as bone marrow suppression. My RBC, Hb, and PLT levels seem to have started declining after taking Salazopyrin (all have dropped to the lower limit of...

[Read More] Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use


Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips

Dizziness and fainting followed by a head injury? Hello Dr. Hong, my girlfriend is in Spain. A couple of days ago, she suddenly fainted in the kitchen and hit her head. When she went to see a doctor, the doctor requested some physiological response tests, such as whether her eyes...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to monitor for severe headaches or vomiting within the next 48 hours. If either occurs, you should promptly return to the emergency department for evaluation of potential intracranial hemorrhage. If no significant symptoms develop afterward, the likelihoo...

[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips


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