Why Switching to Brown Rice May Cause Hunger and Weakness Symptoms
After switching to brown rice, I feel hungry quickly and often experience cold sweats from hunger? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my situation. I usually have white rice as the main staple for dinner, but I recently switched to a mixture of brown rice and white rice. Sin...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it does indeed sound like symptoms of hypoglycemia. This may be related to abnormal insulin secretion or dietary factors. I recommend that you visit a hospital and consult with a specialist in Metabolism (Endocrinology), as it would be more appro...[Read More] Why Switching to Brown Rice May Cause Hunger and Weakness Symptoms
Understanding the Accuracy of RT-PCR Testing: Myths and Facts
What is the reliability of RT-PCR? According to Dr. Luo from National Taiwan University, the accuracy of RT-PCR testing is very good but not 100%, with less than 1% of cases being extraordinary controllers. Some laboratories and physicians have stated that this is currently the h...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Dr. Luo's statement is more accurate. Although RT-PCR is very precise, there is still a small margin of error, and it is not 100% accurate. Clinically, there are indeed a few cases of false negatives. If a test is done a few days later, while it is generally said that...[Read More] Understanding the Accuracy of RT-PCR Testing: Myths and Facts
Understanding Acute HIV Infection Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Symptoms of acute HIV infection? Hello Doctor, here is the sequence of events and my questions: I understand that symptoms alone cannot be used to speculate whether one has contracted HIV. It has not yet been 12 weeks since the exposure, but I feel quite uneasy, so I hope to alle...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Regarding the above, here is the response: A: According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids...[Read More] Understanding Acute HIV Infection Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Understanding Persistent Edema: Seeking Answers Beyond Normal Test Results
Edema issues Hello Doctor: I previously inquired about edema and have since visited the Metabolism Department at Shuanghe Hospital. My hormone levels and thyroid function are normal. (I had my heart, liver, and kidney blood tests done at the Family Medicine Department last August...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, I can sense your concerns about your current physical condition. However, there are many causes of edema, and clinical judgment is necessary; written communication may not accurately address your concerns. If you have previously consu...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Edema: Seeking Answers Beyond Normal Test Results
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Students
Chest tightness or pain? Hello Doctor: I am a high school student. Today, I did not engage in any strenuous activities or exercise at school, but starting in the morning, I experienced severe chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and persistent coughing. When I take deep breaths...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, there are a few possibilities. First, I'm not sure if you've had a cold recently. Typically, a cold can be associated with pleuritis, which may lead to the symptoms you've described. If this is the case, resting more should gradually ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Students
Understanding Blood in Urine: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Hematuria issues Doctor, I have a fever, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort today. I thought it was a cold, so I went to a small clinic to see a doctor. However, after taking the medication, I still haven't improved. I got up in the middle of the night to use the bat...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Response A regarding "Bright red urine": 1. There are many factors that can cause dark urine, so it is recommended to visit a relevant medical institution for examination to rule out any concerns. 2. Possible causes include: menstruation, inadequate hy...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Urine: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Persistent Cough for Two Weeks: What Could Be the Cause?
Hello doctor, I have been coughing continuously for two weeks? Hello doctor, I have been coughing for two weeks now. Each time I cough, it's just a single cough and there is no phlegm. My nasal discharge is also white. What could be the reason? Is there a problem with my lun...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to clarify: did you have no coughing at all two weeks ago? If you have had a long-term history of coughing, we may need to consider chronic rhinitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other chronic conditions. Based on your de...[Read More] Persistent Cough for Two Weeks: What Could Be the Cause?
Effective Strategies to Manage Persistent Edema: A Patient's Guide
How can edema be improved? Hello, doctor... I have asked a question recently. I previously visited a family medicine doctor who ruled out issues with my liver, kidneys, and heart. My blood tests have been normal for several years. I inherited my father's genetic tendency to ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. First of all, I would like to express that everyone has a different definition of edema. Since I have not seen you in person and you did not mention your current weight, I cannot assess the degree of your edema. 2. You mentioned that you have seen a family physician, who has ...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Manage Persistent Edema: A Patient's Guide
Understanding HIV Risks: Oral Sex and Symptoms Explained
HIV issues Hello, doctor. On March 6th of this year, I had unprotected oral sex with a sex worker. About 20 seconds later, she rinsed her mouth and then continued to provide service for another 20 seconds. Because I was concerned, I stopped the activity immediately. In the end, m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, from your question, I can sense your concern and fear regarding oral sex without a condom. Indeed, if there is no blood contact and only saliva is involved, the risk of transmission is very low. As for your symptoms, they are likely caused by a cold or gastroenteritis. Alt...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Oral Sex and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Considerations for Patients
Hyperthyroidism Hello Doctor: Recently, during a routine health check at my company, I found that my Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) level was 0.01, Free Thyroxine (Free T4) was 3.07, fasting blood glucose was 100, heart rate was approximately 100 beats per minute, and my white...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: 1. In our country, most testing laboratories are certified, and to maintain their reputation, the likelihood of significant errors in test results is low. Additionally, Free T4 and TSH levels do not fluctuate rapidly under normal physiological conditions. This mean...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Considerations for Patients
Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention
Chest tightness or chest pain? Hello Doctor, lately I have been feeling a slight heaviness and discomfort in my heart area, but it's very mild. When I take a deep breath, it feels a bit bloated. I used to experience occasional pain and have seen a doctor before, who mentione...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your discomfort is related to a cold. I recommend that you get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and treat any related symptoms. If the discomfort persists, you may want to consider seeking medical treatment. Thank you for your inquiry...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding HIV Risk After Unprotected Sex: Your Questions Answered
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate? I would like to ask the doctor, two days ago, on the third day of my menstrual period, I had a French kiss and then engaged in sexual intercourse with a male acquaintance. He did not use a condom, but he only pe...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question, "What is the likelihood of contracting HIV?" The information comes from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan. HIV has three main transmission routes: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal interco...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risk After Unprotected Sex: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Chest Pain: A Student's Concerns About Heart Health
I woke up in the early morning due to chest tightness and pain? Hello, Doctor. I am a resident student. Due to being overweight, I use the treadmill for at least an hour each day at a speed of about 6 to 7 kilometers per hour. However, I have been inactive for a while, so I get q...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your current condition, exercising is indeed your best option and will likely provide you with the most benefit. However, since you do not have a regular exercise routine, I recommend starting gradually. In terms of speed, you should run at a pace where you can ta...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: A Student's Concerns About Heart Health
Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol: Key Questions and Insights
Regarding diabetes and cholesterol issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, Six months ago during my health check-up, my fasting blood glucose was 123 mg/dL and my hemoglobin A1c was 8.3%. The doctor advised me to take medication for control and to focus on weight loss. After four months of ef...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Justin: 1. If weight loss is achieved gradually, and normal weight is maintained with good dietary control and regular exercise, it is possible to discontinue medication. However, this is contingent upon lifestyle changes and maintenance. Rapid weight loss can lead to r...[Read More] Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Heavy Head Sensation: Possible Causes and Solutions
A heavy sensation in the head? Hello Doctor, I recently experienced cold symptoms, but accompanied by a strange symptom. When I move my head, I feel a heavy sensation in my head, as if I am being pulled forward, which doesn't quite feel like dizziness (the heavy feeling is c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there are two possibilities. First, it could be that a previous cold has led to labyrinthitis, causing inner ear imbalance. This part may require an examination of the inner ear by an otolaryngologist. Second, I would like to know if you have bee...[Read More] Understanding Heavy Head Sensation: Possible Causes and Solutions
Low Lymphocyte Count: Could It Indicate HIV Infection?
A low lymphocyte count and a neutrophil count near the upper limit of normal could potentially indicate various conditions, including HIV. However, these findings alone are not definitive for an HIV diagnosis. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evalu...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Regarding <My Story>, the response is as follows: 1. I discovered painful urination and purulent discharge in mid-December last year and immediately sought medical attention at a clinic. However, there was no discharge during the examination. The doctor administered an in...[Read More] Low Lymphocyte Count: Could It Indicate HIV Infection?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Treatments, and Dietary Guidelines
Thyroid issues Hello, doctor! Over the past one to two years, my thyroid function tests have been normal. However, six months ago, I started feeling hot all the time, not sensitive to cold, and my heart rate increased from 70-80 to around 100. I also noticed slight swelling in my...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Due to the complex composition of traditional Chinese medicine, it is difficult to generalize whether it will have an effect. 2. Corticosteroids can help with exophthalmos caused by hyperthyroidism, but they are not very effective for neck swelling. 3. If thyroid fu...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Treatments, and Dietary Guidelines
Understanding Morning Cough: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Regarding morning cough? In the past month or two, I have been coughing persistently during the early morning hours, accompanied by a wheezing sound when breathing and clear phlegm. Occasionally, I also cough in the morning, though not very frequently, but if I cough too much, I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the sound you described as "whooshing" is indicative of bronchoconstriction. I need to confirm whether this sound has been present for a long time or if it has recently developed. If it has been ongoing or occurs frequently, you should be cautious and consider vi...[Read More] Understanding Morning Cough: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Assessing HIV Risk: Symptoms and Concerns After Multiple Encounters
Symptoms related to HIV/AIDS? Hello, doctor. Since around September of last year, I have had sexual encounters with over ten sex workers. Among these encounters, there were a few instances of unprotected oral sex, but all vaginal intercourse was protected, and there was no anal i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov.tw/professional/list.aspx?treeid=7B56E6F932B49B90&nowtreeid=8CFCD9975BC5720FA. The transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: 1...[Read More] Assessing HIV Risk: Symptoms and Concerns After Multiple Encounters
Could Cold Medicine Be Causing Your Sudden Limb Weakness?
Is the occasional weakness in the limbs related to cold medication? Hello, doctor: I have been coughing and my throat has been very itchy lately, so I went to a small clinic for a consultation. The doctor diagnosed me with bronchitis and prescribed medication for three days. I to...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello: Based on your symptom description, there are two possible causes. The first is the effect of medication, particularly antihistamines found in cold medications. If this is the case, symptoms usually improve after discontinuing the medication. The second possibility is that ...[Read More] Could Cold Medicine Be Causing Your Sudden Limb Weakness?