Understanding Elevated IgG and IgG-4 Levels: Causes and Solutions
Elevated levels of IgG and IgG4 immunoglobulins? Hello Doctor: My father had blood tests in the pancreatic department showing elevated levels of IgG: 1910 and IgG-4: 238. The pancreatic specialist advised us to consult a rheumatologist to determine the cause of the elevated globu...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The diagnosis of IgG4-related disease cannot rely solely on the concentrations of IgG and IgG4 in the blood. Since the elevation of IgG and IgG4 can be due to various reasons beyond pancreatitis, it is essential to consider the overall clinical ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated IgG and IgG-4 Levels: Causes and Solutions
Breathing Difficulties in Stuffy Spaces: Is It Related to Past Asthma?
Breathing difficulties occur in places without air conditioning? Hello, Doctor. I have a history of allergic asthma in my childhood, but it gradually disappeared after puberty. However, I have been puzzled for a long time by a condition where I feel chest tightness and difficulty...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. After the cessation of air circulation, it is indeed possible for symptoms of chest tightness to worsen, especially in patients with a history of asthma. However, whether this is related to childhood asthma requires further examination. In princ...[Read More] Breathing Difficulties in Stuffy Spaces: Is It Related to Past Asthma?
Understanding Overlap Syndrome and Exogenous Asthma in Clinical Practice
Regarding overlap syndrome and exogenous asthma? Hello, Doctor Gao. I have been experiencing joint pain and low white blood cell counts for a long time. However, since these symptoms fluctuate between severe and mild, and I usually feel better after taking painkillers and resting...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, in clinical practice, it is quite rare for patients to meet the diagnostic criteria for both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), especially since the pathogenic mechanisms of RA and SLE differ significantly. Therefore, co-occurrence of these t...[Read More] Understanding Overlap Syndrome and Exogenous Asthma in Clinical Practice
Understanding Lung Cancer Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Lung cancer issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my current symptoms. I have been smoking for about 20 years. A few years ago, I noticed that I was coughing more frequently, and it has continued to the present, becoming quite severe. When I walk up to the fourth floor,...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Mr. Chen: Hello, the early signs of lung cancer can sometimes manifest as a cough. I recommend that readers seek medical attention at a pulmonology clinic for a chest X-ray examination, which is currently covered by health insurance. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. ...[Read More] Understanding Lung Cancer Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Multiple Health Issues: Breathing Difficulties and More
Discomfort in multiple areas of the body? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in my throat for six months, and recently I've noticed that my breathing has become increasingly difficult. Occasionally, I also feel chest pain, which becomes more...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. If you are experiencing abnormalities in multiple organs, it is advisable to first organize your thoughts by identifying the timing and sequence of each symptom. This will assist the physician in assessing your condition and making a diagnosis and treatment plan....[Read More] Managing Multiple Health Issues: Breathing Difficulties and More
Understanding Frequent Dizziness: Causes and Concerns
Often feel lightheaded? I came here to ask questions yesterday and I have some additional concerns. I experienced chest tightness only yesterday, but for several weeks leading up to the basic skills test in May, I often felt dizzy and unsteady while studying in the mornings. This...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: There are many causes of dizziness, including issues related to neuromuscular disorders, otolaryngology problems, cardiovascular issues, medication side effects, and psychiatric conditions. If the cause cannot be identified, it is advisable to consult a neur...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Dizziness: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Dizziness and Breathing Difficulties: Possible Causes and Solutions
I started feeling dizzy today and have some difficulty breathing? Hello, today I don't know why I often feel dizzy, and I have difficulty breathing along with chest tightness. I measured my blood pressure, which is 108/68, and my heart rate is 72 beats per minute, both of wh...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the user often feels dizzy, experiences difficulty breathing, and has chest tightness. These symptoms could be related to various issues, including cardiovascular problems, thoracic conditions, neuromuscular disorders, as well as systemic diseases such as kidney issues and...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Breathing Difficulties: Possible Causes and Solutions
Does Not Fasting Affect the Accuracy of Health Checkup Results?
Does undergoing a health check-up without fasting affect the interpretation of test results? Thank you? Hello Director Li, I would like to ask you some questions regarding the health check report. Our company is organizing a health check tour, but the hospital has scheduled the h...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Hello: Some laboratory test results can indeed be influenced by diet. Below, I will list the tests and examinations that are recommended to be fasting for at least eight hours due to dietary effects, for your reference: urine glucose (GLU), pH, total cholesterol (CHOL), triglycer...[Read More] Does Not Fasting Affect the Accuracy of Health Checkup Results?
Persistent Sensation of Choking Without Eating: Causes and Concerns
Feeling a constant sensation of choking despite not having eaten anything? About six months ago, I occasionally experienced a sensation of something stuck in my throat even when I hadn't eaten anything. Now, this feeling has extended to my chest. Every time I feel this sensa...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
It is recommended to proceed for further examination and treatment in the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department.[Read More] Persistent Sensation of Choking Without Eating: Causes and Concerns
Understanding the Causes of Red or Brown Specks in Phlegm
Phlegm The presence of small red or brown particles in phlegm can indicate several conditions. These discolorations may be due to the presence of blood, which can occur from various sources such as irritation of the respiratory tract, infections, or more serious conditions like b...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding your inquiry, here are my recommendations: 1. Undergo a chest X-ray at the hospital. 2. Visit the pulmonary medicine outpatient clinic for treatment. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding the Causes of Red or Brown Specks in Phlegm
Understanding Nighttime Chest Pain: Causes and Solutions
Chest pain at night? Hello Dr. Lee, I have been experiencing chest pain for the past five nights since February 1st. I cannot determine if the pain is superficial or internal; it feels like being punched or having a heavy weight pressing down. During the day, after I get up, th...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Since there are no issues with your cardiology consultation, you can at least be relieved about heart-related problems. In my opinion, your issue may not be easily identified through blood tests, X-rays, or electrocardiograms. I recommend that you visit a trusted internal medicin...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Chest Pain: Causes and Solutions
When to Seek Emergency Care for Influenza B Symptoms
Under what circumstances should one go to a large hospital for influenza type B? A 31-year-old female family member was diagnosed with influenza B at a clinic two days ago and is currently taking antiviral medication as prescribed by the doctor for five days. She is still experie...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: Most influenza patients recover in about a week, but it is important to pay special attention to any warning signs of severe influenza (such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, cyanosis, blood or thick sputum, chest pain, altered consciousness, low blood ...[Read More] When to Seek Emergency Care for Influenza B Symptoms
Severe Chest Pain and Breathing Issues During Fever: What to Know
Severe chest pain and difficulty breathing during a fever? Hello, I experienced severe chest pain and difficulty breathing when I had a fever, with an ear temperature of 39.4°C. This was on the third day of my fever; the first two days, I only drank hot beverages and did not seek...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
There are many causes of fever accompanied by chest pain, and a detailed examination is necessary for diagnosis. It is best to visit a hospital for evaluation and testing.[Read More] Severe Chest Pain and Breathing Issues During Fever: What to Know
Understanding Slow Heart Rate After Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Hyperthyroidism medication can cause a slow heart rate? Hello Doctor: Three months ago, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism causing hypokalemia due to muscle weakness in the emergency room. After taking medication for over two months, I have not experienced this condition again....
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
The main function of XinKangLe tablets is to suppress heart rate. If the heart rate has dropped to 40-50 beats per minute and there are symptoms of discomfort, the use of XinKangLe tablets should be discontinued and an earlier follow-up appointment should be made. If the heart ra...[Read More] Understanding Slow Heart Rate After Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Chest Discomfort: Understanding Treatment Options for Heart Issues
Chest tightness and discomfort with deep breathing? Today, I went to Nanmen Hospital for an X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests. Dr. Lin prescribed three medications for myocardial infarction, angina, and pain relief. Only the ECG showed abnormalities; the rest were n...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Are you saying that only the electrocardiogram (ECG) showed abnormalities while other tests were normal, and then some oral medications were prescribed? Were you informed that you have heart disease? I hope you can clarify two things with your doctor: first, whether the heart dis...[Read More] Chest Discomfort: Understanding Treatment Options for Heart Issues
Understanding Asthma, Bronchiectasis, and Autoimmune Connections
Asthma, bronchiectasis, immune issues? Symptoms similar to asthma, often experiencing chest tightness, and in severe cases, wheezing during breathing, along with coughing and sometimes feeling short of breath. I have undergone many tests, including bronchial cultures which were a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: 1. Usually, chronic bronchitis or bronchiectasis leads to the later development of asthma-like symptoms. A DLCO of 66% indicates that gas exchange in the lungs is not solely related to airway narrowing but may involve other issues beyond bronchial asthma. 2. Auto...[Read More] Understanding Asthma, Bronchiectasis, and Autoimmune Connections
Chest Pain After Exercise: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest pain? After playing basketball, I started experiencing sharp pain in my right chest area, along with some bloating in my abdomen and a slight feeling of nausea. What could be the issue? If my description is unclear, please let me know via email, and I will provide more deta...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
It may be due to excessive exercise; if rest does not improve the condition, medical attention should be sought.[Read More] Chest Pain After Exercise: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Cold Symptoms and Breathing Issues with Autoimmune Conditions
Cold with wheezing and chest discomfort? Hello, doctor. I have been taking corticosteroids and immunosuppressants for a long time due to an autoimmune disease. Since I started these medications, every time I catch a cold (which I can feel more distinctly), I experience noticeably...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: The need to use bronchodilators to effectively alleviate discomfort from a cold may indicate respiratory issues, which could be related to chronic inflammation, allergies, or autoimmune diseases. It is recommended that you consult a pulmonologist for a more detailed ...[Read More] Managing Cold Symptoms and Breathing Issues with Autoimmune Conditions
Concerns About Distant Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Concerns about distant metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma? Three years ago (in 2008), my father was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma at the age of 64. He did not have any obvious symptoms; he only felt a hard lump in his neck. He underwent surgery in May 2008 to ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Thyroid metastasis from papillary carcinoma can indeed present with normal levels of thyroglobulin, and may not respond to radioactive iodine therapy. However, this occurrence is relatively uncommon. If this is the case, there are currently no specific adjuvant treatments availab...[Read More] Concerns About Distant Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After Abnormal Health Check Results?
Which medical specialty should you consult after a health check-up? Last October, my health check revealed the following abnormalities: My age is comparable to that of an elementary school student taking an exam, and I am concerned about the abnormal results. My serum globulin le...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: You have many questions. Iritis is related to rheumatology and immunology, while the other issues may be related to gastroenterology and cardiology. Please provide your health check report for the doctor’s reference. Start by consulting a rheumatologist or an immunol...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After Abnormal Health Check Results?