Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Why No Antibodies?
No antibodies? 1. Every time I undergo a physical examination, both the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg) and Hepatitis B surface antibody tests come back negative, which rules out the possibility of a Hepatitis B infection. However, I have received approximately five doses of ...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
1. The injection site for adults should be the deltoid muscle of the arm, while for children, it should be the lateral thigh; injections should not be administered in the buttocks, as this may affect immune response. The vaccination schedule is at 0, 1, and 6 months. The immune r...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Why No Antibodies?
Managing Edema in Diabetic Patients: A Guide for Caregivers
Diabetic patients with edema issues? Hello, doctor. My grandmother is a 60-year-old diabetic patient with a history of about 10 years. She has been taking medication to control her blood sugar, which is usually stable and does not exceed 180. However, for the past year, she has b...
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
According to your letter, your grandmother's lower back pain may be caused by urinary tract stones, but the most common reason for lower back pain in elderly individuals is degenerative changes in the lumbar spine. It is necessary to consult an orthopedic specialist for furt...[Read More] Managing Edema in Diabetic Patients: A Guide for Caregivers
Persistent Fever: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Proper Diagnosis
Persistent fever Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing frequent fevers over the past few days. I sweat and feel better when lying down, but the fever returns shortly after. Today marks the fourth day. I currently live in Taichung City, and yesterday I visited the family medicine...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Hello! Recurrent fever, joint pain (discomfort in the spine), cough with chest pain, and sputum (even in small amounts) may indicate bacterial pneumonia or atypical pneumonia. Please first visit a general internal medicine or pulmonary medicine department to arrange for a chest X...[Read More] Persistent Fever: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Proper Diagnosis
Understanding Neck Pain During Physical Strain: Causes and Solutions
Neck pain (during exertion) 1. I have been experiencing soreness in my spine, specifically in the center between my shoulder blades, whenever I pull my shoulders back. This condition has persisted for a year and a half. 2. On the morning of May 15, 2005, I noticed that whenever...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Most of your symptoms are likely caused by cervical disc herniation, which compresses the nerves extending towards the shoulders and head. In addition to neck pain, shoulder stiffness, and occipital headaches, if the nerves extending towards the wrists and back are also compresse...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain During Physical Strain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes and Concerns
Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the posterior neck? I have noticed two asymmetrical small lumps on the back sides of my neck, which feel soft and movable. They become visible when I turn my head to the sides, and they are about 1 cm in size. This condition has been present for ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
There may be a condition of lymphadenopathy, and the medication does not seem to have much relevance. If the symptoms persist, it may be advisable to consider seeing an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Right Upper Abdomen and Flank Pain: When to Seek Help
Pain in the right upper abdomen and flank? Hello, I have a history of fatty liver disease and experience varying degrees of pain in my right abdomen, located around the right rib cage. Sometimes the pain extends to my lower back, and in severe cases, it causes pain and numbness i...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
Hello, possible causes: 1. Fatty liver disease, which is mostly asymptomatic, with very few individuals experiencing mild discomfort in the upper abdomen or under the ribs. 2. Right kidney issues: such as ureteral or kidney stones, tumors, inflammation, or hydronephrosis. 3. Live...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen and Flank Pain: When to Seek Help
Understanding Metabolism Issues: Symptoms of Muscle Cramps and Fatigue
Is this a problem related to metabolism? Hello Doctor, I am experiencing symptoms such as muscle cramps and weakness in my hands and feet, frequent dizziness, and a feeling of weakness in my legs. Recently, I often forget things that just happened, have difficulty concentrating...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Your symptoms are nonspecific and do not seem to correlate with your known medical history. This situation may not necessarily lead to a diagnosis of a specific disease; however, it is advisable to visit an internal medicine outpatient clinic, as sometimes physicians can identify...[Read More] Understanding Metabolism Issues: Symptoms of Muscle Cramps and Fatigue
Best Hospitals in Kaohsiung for Comprehensive Bad Breath Diagnosis
Please recommend hospitals in Kaohsiung? Hello Doctor: I have been struggling with halitosis for a long time. I have visited multiple dental clinics, several ENT specialists, and even consulted traditional Chinese medicine. My gastroscopy and liver function tests came back normal...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
You can visit the Department of Family Medicine at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital.[Read More] Best Hospitals in Kaohsiung for Comprehensive Bad Breath Diagnosis
Could My Back Pain Indicate Gout? Understanding Symptoms and Uric Acid Levels
Do I have symptoms of gout? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing some soreness in my lumbar region for the past two months. My lower back becomes quite painful if I stand for too long. A few weeks ago, I had blood tests done at both the municipal hospital and Chang Gung Memoria...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, gout rarely starts with spinal symptoms unless you already have swelling and pain in the peripheral joints of your hands and feet, indicating chronic gout. Elevated uric acid levels in the blood do not necessarily present with symptoms and do not always require treatment. ...[Read More] Could My Back Pain Indicate Gout? Understanding Symptoms and Uric Acid Levels
Sudden Sharp Pain in Right Side of Back While Turning in Bed
Sudden sharp pain on the right side of the back caused by turning over? Hello Dr. Chen, last night when I went to bed, I was lying on my side with my left knee bent and turned to the right when I suddenly experienced a sharp, severe pain on the right side of my back that lasted f...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
Hello! These symptoms are temporary and resolve on their own, especially occurring when changing positions. They are classified as muscle cramps, not a disease, and certainly not a kidney condition. There is no need for a medical consultation; just be mindful of your movements an...[Read More] Sudden Sharp Pain in Right Side of Back While Turning in Bed
Unexplained Fever: Understanding Sudden High Temperatures and Symptoms
Sudden onset of fever... unknown cause? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you... Two nights ago, I suddenly developed a fever of about 38-39.5 degrees Celsius. My temperature fluctuated, and I experienced some lower back pain, overall weakness, and occasionally felt like I was ab...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
If a fever persists for several days without any cold symptoms, it may be necessary to consider some diagnostic tests. The specific tests to be conducted should be determined by a physician's physical examination, focusing on areas where an infection is suspected. In some ca...[Read More] Unexplained Fever: Understanding Sudden High Temperatures and Symptoms
Do You Need an Endoscopy for H. Pylori Testing?
HP examination Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question. I have been suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and have been taking medication for a year without improvement. Therefore, I am considering trying traditional Chinese medicine. A referral led me t...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
The tests for Helicobacter pylori include the following: 1. Serological test for Helicobacter pylori, which can only indicate whether there has been a past infection and may not reflect a current infection causing symptoms. 2. Urea breath test for Helicobacter pylori: This test m...[Read More] Do You Need an Endoscopy for H. Pylori Testing?
Understanding Post-Meal Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Postprandial back pain? Dr. Chen: Over two years ago, I started experiencing back pain (located in the middle of the spine, behind the stomach) about 1-2 hours after eating fatty foods (such as chips and fries) before dinner. The pain lasts for several hours and sometimes is seve...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
Hello, your symptoms resemble a gastric ulcer. Please visit the internal medicine or gastroenterology outpatient clinic for an examination. Amylase refers to starch enzyme, not pancreatic enzyme. Normal blood test results can only rule out acute pancreatitis. Thank you! Chen Jing...[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Back Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Right Side Discomfort: When to See a Specialist
Discomfort on the right side? Dr. Tsai: After consulting you about the pressure sensation in my right upper abdomen (what could be the cause of discomfort in the right upper abdomen on 12/28), I have noticed that the discomfort has spread to my right flank, lower back, and right ...
Dr. Cai Zonglong Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms and examination, it is unlikely that there is a problem with your liver. However, it would be more accurate to perform a blood test to check liver function. Additionally, your symptoms may be caused by your daily work or lifestyle habits, which may n...[Read More] Understanding Right Side Discomfort: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Symptoms After Starting Insulin Therapy for Diabetes
What are some symptoms that can be triggered by insulin administration? Dr. Yang: Hello, I would like to ask about my mother who has been suffering from diabetes for nearly 30 years (family history). She has been controlling her blood sugar with oral medications, but as the dosag...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Patients who switch from oral medications to insulin due to persistently high blood glucose levels, and then revert back to oral medications, have a low chance of achieving good blood glucose control. The causes of your mother's headaches and dizziness can be numerous and ma...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Starting Insulin Therapy for Diabetes
Understanding Neck and Shoulder Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
The junction between the neck and shoulders? Hello, for the past couple of days, I have been experiencing significant soreness in my shoulders and neck, particularly around the muscles near the junction of my neck and shoulders, where several vertebrae are located. These muscles ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Hello! Due to high work stress, long working hours, poorly designed chairs, certain jobs requiring prolonged sitting or leaning over a computer, and bad habits such as holding the phone between the shoulder and neck, the neck can be fixed in poor positions. If the neck is held in...[Read More] Understanding Neck and Shoulder Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Viral Infections: Symptoms and What to Expect
Viral infection?! Hello, doctor. 1. I have been experiencing diarrhea since this morning, with about 4 to 5 episodes by noon. 2. I have vomited 3 times (only drank a sip of water and about 100 c.c. of milk). 3. I have lower back pain, calf soreness, and overall weakness. 4. ...
Dr. Cai Zonglong Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, it is indeed possible that you have a viral infection. However, it is important to consider the issues and symptoms that occurred prior to the diarrhea. If it was caused by contaminated food, then it is likely a viral infection; otherwise, there cou...[Read More] Understanding Viral Infections: Symptoms and What to Expect
Understanding Right Abdominal Pain After Varicocele Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Right abdominal pain? Hello Doctor: In September of this year, I underwent a varicocelectomy due to varicocele (the incision was made in the left lower abdomen). About a week after the surgery, I began experiencing localized soreness in the right abdomen and right flank, but I co...
Dr. Cai Zonglong Reply:
Hello, your issue is somewhat complex. At first glance, it may not appear to be a gastroenterological problem, as gastrointestinal pain is typically accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms. However, your pain occurred after surgery, and since your bowel movements are unknown, I ...[Read More] Understanding Right Abdominal Pain After Varicocele Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Pain in the four limbs? I have severe pain in my left hand and stiffness, and my toes and the area where my toes connect to my feet are very painful. This has been going on for two months. My mother has rheumatoid arthritis, and I am currently taking pain medication for it, but i...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, 1. The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is not solely based on blood tests (rheumatoid factor). About 20-25% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis may have normal blood test results. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for evaluation. 2. Rheumatoid arthritis...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Understanding A-Alpha Globulin Nephritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Type A globulin glomerulonephritis Hello Doctor, I have had microscopic hematuria for a year. Last year, I underwent examinations in the nephrology department, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging X-rays. Aside from 4+ occult blood, I sometimes had proteinuria and some...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... Persistent microscopic hematuria and occasional proteinuria are indicative of glomerulonephritis. Generally, type A alpha globulin nephritis is more common. An IgA level of 380 is elevated, which further supports the high likelihood of type ...[Read More] Understanding A-Alpha Globulin Nephritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management