Understanding Rib Pain and Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Relief
Pressing on the middle of the ribs causes pain, and there is a feeling of heaviness and pain in the lower abdomen. I often wake up at night due to the pain while lying down? The cartilage in the middle of the ribs is painful to light pressure, and there is a persistent feeling of...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Question: Why is there pain in the middle of the ribs and bloating pain in the lower abdomen, which also hurts when lying down at night? Answer: 1. Each person has a xiphoid process at the junction between the chest and abdomen, which is a cartilaginous structure. Its protrusion...[Read More] Understanding Rib Pain and Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Relief
Struggling with Weight Loss: Seeking Solutions for Metabolism Issues
Questions about weight loss? Hello, Dr. Yang! Current situation: I am 170 cm tall and weigh 65 kg, which is overweight. I have a small appetite and try to take a walk after every meal! However, I still keep gaining weight. I have tried exercising before, and indeed, I lost weight...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
With a height of 170 cm and a weight of 65 kg, you may not be completely satisfied, but you are still within the standard range and cannot be considered overweight. There is no need to seek medical attention for weight issues, and it is not recommended to pursue any special treat...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Loss: Seeking Solutions for Metabolism Issues
Key Considerations for Families of Leukemia Patients with Pneumonia in ICU
During the hospitalization of pneumonia patients in the intensive care unit, they may experience various sensations and symptoms? During the hospitalization of a leukemia pneumonia patient in the intensive care unit, if the patient experiences a burning sensation during urination...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: A burning sensation during urination may indicate a urinary tract infection. A urine test can help determine if there is an infection present. Please inform your doctor or nurse about your discomfort for proper management. Wishing you a speedy recovery![Read More] Key Considerations for Families of Leukemia Patients with Pneumonia in ICU
Are Plastic Chopsticks Safe? Exploring Healthier Alternatives
My question? Hello, doctor: My family has been using plastic chopsticks for a long time, whether for noodles or hot pot, but we are always concerned about harmful substances being ingested! Should I switch to stainless steel chopsticks for better safety, or do you have other reco...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: There are many types of plastics, each with slightly different compositions. Although they are all polymers, their heat resistance, acid resistance, alkali resistance, hardness, plasticity, permeability, and flexibility vary. Often, the design differs based on various need...[Read More] Are Plastic Chopsticks Safe? Exploring Healthier Alternatives
Muscle Strain or Kidney Issues? Understanding Your Pain Symptoms
Muscle strain or kidney issues? Five days ago, while swimming, I noticed some pain near my kidney area, similar to the soreness one feels after intense exercise, like sprinting 500 meters. The next day, the pain intensified, but I didn't see a doctor at that time. Over the p...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, pain in the left back near the kidney can have many potential causes. Common conditions include fasciitis, kidney stones, inflammatory arthritis, myofascial pain syndrome, neuritis, skin disorders, tumors, and vascular lesions, among others. B...[Read More] Muscle Strain or Kidney Issues? Understanding Your Pain Symptoms
Are X-rays Safe for Children? Understanding Radiation Risks and Protocols
X-ray Hello, my child is over 2 years old and today he bumped his head and bled a lot from the back of his head. A relative took him to the emergency room, and they told me that many X-rays were taken, but my child did not wear a lead apron. Is this correct? I called the radiolog...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: Since I am not a radiologist, I consulted with the radiology department, and their response was as follows: "In the case of a child with head bleeding, an emergency head X-ray is required. Due to the child's inability to remain still, it is challenging to impleme...[Read More] Are X-rays Safe for Children? Understanding Radiation Risks and Protocols
Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Back Lump: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Mild fever for a week, chills (sudden cold awakening at night), and a sudden hard lump on the back? Hello, I am currently working in mainland China and will need some time before I can return to Taiwan for medical treatment. Therefore, I would like to ask for a preliminary diagno...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Visit the medical center to see the Infectious Disease Department for fever and the Surgery Department for a hard lump on the back. For traditional Chinese medicine treatment, first go to the hospital's affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Department for consultation.[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Back Lump: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Is Your Kidney at Risk? What to Watch for After a Back Injury
Kidney injury? Hello doctor, I accidentally got hit on the lower back by a heavy book. Initially, it was very painful, but after about three hours, the pain has decreased significantly. Do I need to go to the hospital for an examination to check if my kidneys are damaged? What si...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Dear Sir: The kidneys are located in the posterior part of the body and are protected by layers of muscle. Given your situation, it is unlikely that the kidneys have been injured. If you experience further pain, consider seeking medical attention (such as arranging for an ultraso...[Read More] Is Your Kidney at Risk? What to Watch for After a Back Injury
Seeking Medical Advice on Sacroiliac Joint Inflammation from X-ray
I would like to inquire about the condition of sacroiliac joint inflammation? I have attached my X-ray of the pelvis and would like to ask the doctor if there is evidence of sacroiliitis. I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis approximately six years ago, with a positive HLA...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, based on the X-ray images you provided, it appears to show grade II sacroiliitis (I use "appears" because sometimes the transmitted images are not very clear). The diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires two key conditions: 1. Bilateral sacroiliitis of grade...[Read More] Seeking Medical Advice on Sacroiliac Joint Inflammation from X-ray
Understanding Post-Shingles Pain: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Hello, Doctor. I experienced a miscarriage on June 15 and subsequently developed shingles on the right side of my waist. After completing a week of Acyclovir at 5 times a day, I felt stiffness and pain in my lower back two days later. I have taken various...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Gabapentin is an effective medication for treating postherpetic neuralgia, and it should gradually improve. It's important to maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate sleep, and keep a positive mood as well.[Read More] Understanding Post-Shingles Pain: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Understanding Morning Lower Back Pain: Causes and Specialist Guidance
Lower back pain? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask, when I wake up in the morning, my entire lower back feels very sore. What could be the issues, and which specialty should I consult? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of lower back pain, including localized injuries, lesions in the abdominal or pelvic cavities, spinal disorders, nerve root pathologies, fascial inflammation, or muscle spasms. While various conditions can lead to lower back pain, they may also presen...[Read More] Understanding Morning Lower Back Pain: Causes and Specialist Guidance
Unexplained Aches and Fever: Seeking Medical Guidance
Unexplained muscle soreness? Hello, Dr. Lin. I have been experiencing acute pharyngitis since mid-April and saw an ENT specialist. After taking medication, my symptoms improved. However, I later developed a fever of 39.5 degrees Celsius and consulted an internist, which also led ...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Your description indicates that there was a preceding upper respiratory infection, followed by low-grade fever and an unexplained rash. Regarding the issue at hand, it is unclear whether you are still experiencing a fever. If you are still febrile (with an afternoon temperature a...[Read More] Unexplained Aches and Fever: Seeking Medical Guidance
Understanding Left Side Lower Back Pain: Causes and Concerns for Students
Left flank pain? Hello Dr. Wu, I would like to ask you: I am a senior high school student, and since July of last year, I have been studying at a cram school for about fourteen hours a day, drinking approximately 1000 to 1500 cc of water daily. Starting in March of this year, as ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. First, rule out kidney inflammation or kidney stones—consider arranging for a urinalysis and renal ultrasound. 2. If neither of these is the cause, consider inflammation of the muscles and tendons beside the spine (which may be caused by prolonged sitting; please ensure proper...[Read More] Understanding Left Side Lower Back Pain: Causes and Concerns for Students
Understanding Hyperthyroidism and Its Impact on Pregnancy Plans
If you are planning to conceive, is a TSH level of 0.03 in hyperthyroidism considered too low? Hello Dr. Yang, I have been dealing with hyperthyroidism for about two years. I have undergone ultrasound examinations, which showed no abnormalities. I have blood tests and receive hyp...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
A TSH level of 0.03 with other thyroid functions being normal indicates a potential clinical hyperthyroidism, which may suggest that it is still necessary to take antithyroid medications. Taking antithyroid medications is not absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy, although ...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism and Its Impact on Pregnancy Plans
Understanding Unexplained Body Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns
I feel very unwell all over? Hello, I'm sorry to disturb you. I've been experiencing ongoing health issues for the past few months. My weight has dropped dramatically, losing 20 kilograms from October last year to April this year, without any changes in my diet or exerc...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Weight loss and increased heart rate are most commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, which can be confirmed or ruled out through blood tests.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Upper Back Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Upper back pain Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been feeling a slight sensation in the area behind my lower back, just below the breasts, on both sides. It’s not exactly pain, but more like a pressure sensation, almost like a mild ache. I'm not sure what might be causing this...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello: The location of your pain is near the area behind the lower part of the breast, where you feel a sensation that is not quite pain, but rather like pressure from a finger, and it feels slightly uncomfortable. The kidneys are located on either side of the spine in the lower ...[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Neck and Back Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist
Shoulder, neck, and lower back pain? Hello, doctor. I previously experienced gastroenteritis around November 2008, for which I saw a doctor and took medication for a week, after which I did not return for a follow-up. In March of this year, the gastroenteritis symptoms reappeared...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
We recommend that you consult the hospital's information desk, where the staff will provide further advice based on your age, gender, and clinical symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Neck and Back Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist
How to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels: Tips for a Healthier Heart
Cholesterol is particularly high? A few days ago, my health check report came back, and my cholesterol level is particularly high at 238. The other values, such as uric acid, creatinine, and liver function tests, are all normal. What can I do to lower this level?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Cholesterol levels should ideally be kept below 200 mg/dL. Initially, dietary modifications can be implemented to manage this. It is advisable to reduce the intake of egg yolks, meats, seafood, animal fats, fatty meats, and whole milk. After 3 to 6 months, a follow-up should be c...[Read More] How to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels: Tips for a Healthier Heart
Understanding Morning Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Lower back pain? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing severe lower back pain every morning when I wake up. At times, the pain is so intense that it makes it difficult to breathe, and I often wake up due to the pain. However, the discomfort usually subsides on its own after abou...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Your symptoms resolve on their own after about half an hour? This seems more like pain caused by neuromuscular issues. You might consider consulting a neurosurgeon or orthopedic specialist for a spinal X-ray to determine if there is any nerve compression. Typically, pain caused b...[Read More] Understanding Morning Lower Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Unusual Kidney Sensations: What Could Be Wrong?
My kidneys are not functioning properly? I've been feeling something unusual with my left kidney lately; I can't quite describe it, but it feels strange, not exactly painful. Recently, I've also been feeling more tired and my energy levels have been low. What kind ...
Dr. Yang Weishun Reply:
Unless there is severe pain caused by kidney stones or kidney function has deteriorated to the level of uremia, kidney issues generally do not present with noticeable symptoms. You may be referring to discomfort in the left "lower back," which can have many potential ca...[Read More] Unusual Kidney Sensations: What Could Be Wrong?