Can Mediterranean Anemia and Microcytic Anemia Occur Together?
Mediterranean anemia and microcytic anemia? Hello, doctor. Can a person have both thalassemia and microcytic anemia at the same time? I previously took iron supplements and consumed a lot of meat for at least six months, which raised my hemoglobin to normal levels. However, after...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, microcytic anemia is a general term that encompasses various types of anemia, with the most common being iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. To determine which specific type of anemia you have, further testing is required. For instance, iron deficiency anemia can be as...[Read More] Can Mediterranean Anemia and Microcytic Anemia Occur Together?
Managing Long-Term Low Potassium: Symptoms and Next Steps
Chronic hypokalemia Hello Doctor 👋 # I have been experiencing low potassium, proteinuria, mild anemia, and diarrhea for over a year! My body often feels unwell with symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, numbness in my hands, nausea, palpitations, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your inquiry, chronic hypokalemia primarily falls under the domain of nephrology, and it is advisable to consult a nephrologist for better coordination in managing your condition. Thank you for your question; the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital is here to supp...[Read More] Managing Long-Term Low Potassium: Symptoms and Next Steps
Post-Exercise Dizziness: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Dizziness and discomfort after exercise? Hello Doctor, I exercise for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour every day. I usually go to bed before midnight and wake up at 7 AM. My exercise routine typically starts around 4 PM and mainly consists of aerobic exercises combined with simple b...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, there are four possible conditions. First is orthostatic hypotension, which is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing posture, leading to dizziness. This typically resolves with rest, and there is no specific treatment other than...[Read More] Post-Exercise Dizziness: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Decreased red and white blood cell counts? Hello, I recently reviewed my previous health check-up reports from high school and college, which were three years apart. My red blood cell count decreased from 4.17 to 3.97, and my white blood cell count also decreased from 6.9 to 5.5....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your blood test report, both the changes in white blood cells and red blood cells are within normal ranges, so there is no need to worry about anemia. It is important to also consider the hemoglobin (Hb) levels to assess this condition. To improve your overall hea...[Read More] Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Understanding ANA Test Results and Vaccine Concerns in Autoimmune Conditions
Medical consultation Hello, doctor. I would like to ask what an ANA titer of 1:160 represents. Does this indicate an autoimmune disease? I also have anemia and palpitations. A doctor previously informed me that it would be dangerous for me to receive the COVID-19 vaccine; is that...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. I have organized and responded to your inquiries as follows: 1. What does an ANA titer of 1:160 represent? Does it indicate an autoimmune disease? --> This is a screening indicator for autoimmune diseases. A higher titer suggests an increa...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results and Vaccine Concerns in Autoimmune Conditions
Understanding Albumin Use and Fungal Infections in Elderly Patients
Medication Use / Fungal Infection 1. Human albumin should be administered in situations such as significant hypoalbuminemia, severe burns, liver cirrhosis with ascites, or conditions requiring volume expansion in critically ill patients. 2. It is not typical for a patient to ha...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. Common indications include limb edema or pulmonary edema caused by low albumin, or the use of albumin may also be considered in cases of hypotension. 2. It is quite common to culture many bacteria and fungi from urine and sputum after a patient has been hospitalized for...[Read More] Understanding Albumin Use and Fungal Infections in Elderly Patients
Unexplained Bruising on Lower Legs After AZ Vaccine: What to Know
After receiving the AZ vaccine, there is unexplained bruising on the calf? Hello doctor, I have Sjögren's syndrome and iron deficiency anemia. After receiving my first dose of the AZ vaccine on July 29 (Thursday), I noticed seven unexplained bruises on my tibia and knee on J...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the blood test did not show any abnormalities in your platelets. Blood abnormalities related to the AZ vaccine typically occur 10 days to two weeks after vaccination. Currently, your situation cannot be explained, and it is recommended that you consult a hematologist for f...[Read More] Unexplained Bruising on Lower Legs After AZ Vaccine: What to Know
Postpartum Weight Loss: Understanding Health Concerns After Pregnancy
Significant weight loss after childbirth? Hello Doctor, before my pregnancy, my weight was approximately 65 kg (height 159 cm, BMI was overweight). During my pregnancy, I had gestational diabetes and used short-acting insulin (once in the morning). At the time of delivery, I weig...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Postpartum weight loss can also be evaluated by checking thyroid function, as thyroid dysfunction can affect weight.[Read More] Postpartum Weight Loss: Understanding Health Concerns After Pregnancy
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Vaccine Considerations for Patients
Mediterranean anemia Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about an internal medicine issue. Six years ago, during my pregnancy, I underwent prenatal check-ups, and the report values were as follows: average red blood cell count 75.7 (reference value 79-99) and hemoglobin 11.9 (refer...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your blood test report, it is possible that you have either thalassemia or iron deficiency anemia. To determine which type it is, further blood tests are necessary. Regarding vaccines, it does not affect the choice of vaccine brand. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Vaccine Considerations for Patients
Understanding Heart Discomfort During Dialysis: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort in the heart during dialysis? Dear Dr. Wu, I have a family member, a 30-year-old female, who has been undergoing dialysis treatment for nearly two years. Recently, she experienced a sudden myocardial infarction and underwent cardiac catheterization and coronary artery...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your inquiry, the hemoglobin measurement is approximately 21-25, which is low. After blood transfusion, you may discuss with your physician whether erythropoietin (EPO) or iron supplements are adequate or if there are other bleeding issues (such as gastrointestinal bleed...[Read More] Understanding Heart Discomfort During Dialysis: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Postural Hypotension: Causes and Solutions for Dizziness
Standing up suddenly may cause slight dizziness? Hello, doctor. I have noticed that sometimes when I go to bed late, I feel fine when I wake up the next day. However, there are times when I suddenly get up from a prone position and feel a bit dizzy, with my vision becoming blurry...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is suspected that you may have orthostatic hypotension combined with anemia. The primary cause of orthostatic hypotension is poor vascular elasticity. Therefore, in addition to slowing down movements, avoiding staying up late, and maintaining ...[Read More] Understanding Postural Hypotension: Causes and Solutions for Dizziness
Understanding Low Heart Rate: Implications and When to Seek Cardiology Care
Bradycardia Hello, doctor. In my health check report, there is an electrocardiogram (ECG) finding suggestive of myocardial ischemia, and my hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration are low. My smartwatch has a heart rate monitoring function, and a normal resting h...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding bradycardia, it should be assessed in conjunction with your symptoms. If you have no discomfort, there may not be a need to address it. A low hemoglobin level and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration indicate anemia, and the specific hemoglobin level should ...[Read More] Understanding Low Heart Rate: Implications and When to Seek Cardiology Care
Persistent Breathing Difficulty and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Shortness of breath lasting for one week + occasional chest pain? On the night of the 7th, I woke up feeling somewhat short of breath for no apparent reason. I hadn't turned on the air conditioning, and it didn't feel like my usual nasal congestion, but it felt very obs...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the main issue is subjective discomfort. I recommend measuring your body temperature and blood oxygen levels. If both are normal, you may consider an outpatient consultation. It could be caused by anemia or hyperthyroidism. However,...[Read More] Persistent Breathing Difficulty and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Symptoms: Numbness, Low Fever, and Heart Issues
Numbness in the cheeks, unexplained fever, and heart rate issues? Around 1 AM on June 2, my family member received a notification from the "Taiwan Social Distancing" app indicating possible contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case. They went to work in the morning, but in...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! It is common to experience palpitations and other discomforting symptoms during a fever. A single negative test result does not definitively confirm that you are negative for the virus. If you still have the same symptoms after 3-4 days (which is now), it is advisable to c...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Numbness, Low Fever, and Heart Issues
Is It Safe to Get the AZ Vaccine with Mediterranean Anemia?
Questions about the administration of the AZ vaccine? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if there are any risks associated with receiving inactivated vaccines like AstraZeneca if there is a family history of Mediterranean anemia (thalassemia) on the paternal side. Thank you.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Mediterranean anemia is currently not a contraindication for the AZ vaccine, and there is no evidence that it increases risk. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Is It Safe to Get the AZ Vaccine with Mediterranean Anemia?
Understanding Easy Bruising, Petechiae, and Frequent Nosebleeds in Children
Easy bruising, petechiae, and nosebleeds? Dear Director Gao, My daughter is currently 7 years old. Over a year ago, we noticed that she easily develops bruises on her body, although we are unsure if she has bumped into something. These bruises mostly occur around her knees and t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Here are my thoughts: 1. The pediatric immunologist mentioned the possibility of thalassemia or iron deficiency anemia. Since many family members on my mother's side have thalassemia trait, does that mean my daughter is likely to have this...[Read More] Understanding Easy Bruising, Petechiae, and Frequent Nosebleeds in Children
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Blood Test Indicators
Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello doctor, I received my military service medical examination report. The white blood cell count (WBC) is 6.6 x 10^3/µL, red blood cell count (RBC) is 6.51 x 10^6/µL, hemoglobin (Hb) is 13.4 g/dL, hematocrit (Hct) is 43.0%, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed possible, but Mediterranean anemia can only be confirmed through further testing. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Blood Test Indicators
Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?
Recurrent fever for three weeks? My sister, who is 25 years old, developed a fever at the end of April and sought medical attention. Initially, she had a sore throat, and the ENT doctor diagnosed her with a cold. After taking medication for three days, her fever did not subside, ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It sounds most like an autoimmune issue. I recommend consulting a rheumatologist, but many details still need to be assessed in person by your sister. You might also consider seeing an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation regarding the unexplained fever. If it is ...[Read More] Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?
Does Anemia Affect Blood Sugar Diagnosis Standards? Understanding the Impact
Does anemia affect blood sugar diagnostic standards? Recently, my health check report showed a fasting blood glucose level of 101 and a hemoglobin A1c of 5.8. I am very concerned about diabetes, but I have thalassemia. Does this condition affect blood glucose levels or the standa...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Mediterranean anemia can affect the binding of glucose to hemoglobin, which in turn can impact the levels of glycated hemoglobin.[Read More] Does Anemia Affect Blood Sugar Diagnosis Standards? Understanding the Impact
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Should You See an Endocrinologist?
Abnormal blood test results? The most recent blood test report from my check-up shows a fasting blood glucose level of 101, which is slightly above the normal range, but the hemoglobin A1c level is 5.3, which seems to be normal. Should I see an endocrinologist for adjustment or f...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fasting blood glucose levels exceeding 100 require regular follow-up visits. It is also important to consider that some individuals may have inaccurate hemoglobin A1c results due to anemia.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Should You See an Endocrinologist?