Understanding Acute Pyelonephritis: Risks, Recovery, and Monitoring
Urinary tract infection (pyelonephritis) Hello Director Wu, my mother is 64 years old and experienced a mild stroke in early March 2014. She is currently making stable progress in her recovery. In March of this year, during her hospitalization for stroke treatment, she had a urin...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello KK: First, let me explain some medical terms; "urinary tract infection" refers to an infection of the urinary tract system caused by pathogens (usually bacteria). The urinary tract system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, and in males, the prostate....[Read More] Understanding Acute Pyelonephritis: Risks, Recovery, and Monitoring
Does Hyperthyroidism Increase Your Risk of Severe Colds?
Is it easy for individuals with thyroid antibodies to become ill? Doctor, I would like to ask, I have hyperthyroidism and am currently undergoing treatment, but I get colds very easily, and each time they are quite severe. Is this related to my hyperthyroidism? I couldn't fi...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Hyperthyroidism generally does not cause immune system issues; however, medications for hyperthyroidism may lead to leukopenia as a side effect (which varies depending on individual constitution). This is more likely to occur during the initial phase of treatment. Please consult ...[Read More] Does Hyperthyroidism Increase Your Risk of Severe Colds?
Chest Pain After Cold Medicine: When to See a Doctor?
After taking cold medicine, eating food causes a feeling of tightness (pain) in the chest? Hello, I visited the doctor for the first time and after taking the medication, my cold didn't improve, so I went to a second doctor. After taking the first packet of medication, I sta...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
If medication is taken without sufficient water or with too little water, the drug may remain in the esophagus, potentially causing localized ulcers and discomfort. If pain occurs while eating, it is important to consider issues related to the throat or esophagus, and a visit to ...[Read More] Chest Pain After Cold Medicine: When to See a Doctor?
Can Cryptococcus Infections Be Treated Before Symptoms Appear?
Cryptococcal infection... should treatment wait until symptoms develop? Hello Dr. Liao, I would like to ask... If a person is infected with Cryptococcus, must we wait for the disease to manifest before treatment can begin? If there are no symptoms, does it mean that the Cryptococ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. First, refer to an article from Han Ming Hospital titled "Cryptococcal Pneumonia: A Concern for Immunocompromised Individuals." A. Unlike typical pneumonia, which presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, and sputum production, patients with crypto...[Read More] Can Cryptococcus Infections Be Treated Before Symptoms Appear?
Can Kidney Inflammation and Medications Delay Your Menstrual Cycle?
Medication management Hello doctor: I haven't had my period for 10 days. Recently, due to kidney inflammation, I have taken Cefadroxil and Strocain. Will this affect my menstrual cycle?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: This information is provided by the health education pamphlet from Taichung Hospital for your reference. Cefadroxil Medication Guide ★ Brand Name: Ucefa ★ Generic Name: Cefadroxil Capsules Why is this medication prescribed? Cefadroxil is a cephalosporin antibiotic...[Read More] Can Kidney Inflammation and Medications Delay Your Menstrual Cycle?
How to Lower Creatinine and Improve GFR: Expert Insights
Kidney function issues? Dr. Wang, how can I lower my creatinine level of 1.1 and improve my glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 82.5? Thank you.
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Mr. Chen: Hello, in general, individuals without proteinuria have a normal serum creatinine level of 0.4-1.2 mg/dL, and a glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >80 ml/min is considered normal. Tips for protecting kidney function: ● Four "no's" and one "none&quo...[Read More] How to Lower Creatinine and Improve GFR: Expert Insights
Understanding Allergy Desensitization Therapy and Its Long-Term Effects
Regarding desensitization therapy? Hello, doctor. When I was about five years old, I developed allergic asthma after a prolonged cough from a cold. By the time I was in first grade, a physician at a provincial hospital provided me with desensitization therapy, which I remember la...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Let me address your questions one by one. 1. Asthma can indeed recur, although the symptoms are generally milder during relapses. After undergoing desensitization therapy, there is a possibility of recurrence, but this typically occurs after a...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Desensitization Therapy and Its Long-Term Effects
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
This morning, I went for a fasting blood draw, and after receiving the report, I found that my creatinine level is slightly elevated? Hello Doctor, I submitted a question on October 12 (you replied on October 14). This morning, I went to the lab on an empty stomach to have blood ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello: Creatinine: 1.24, GFR 81.64, which is not far from the normal value of 90. This could be due to fluctuations in test results or may indicate a mild issue. It is recommended to have regular blood tests for monitoring (every six months or annually). Additionally, regarding y...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
Understanding Neurological Imbalance: Symptoms and Next Steps
Regarding neuro imbalance? Hello Doctor: My father is 62 years old and has a history of diabetes for about 6 years, which has been well controlled. This morning (October 14), he suddenly experienced dizziness, blurred vision (only in the left eye, with double vision), nausea, and...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Sudden onset of dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and cold sweats may indicate hypoglycemia. If possible, checking fingertip blood glucose levels can provide confirmation; if immediate testing is not feasible, consuming sugar cubes or juice can be helpful. If there is uncontroll...[Read More] Understanding Neurological Imbalance: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Dear Doctor, why do I easily have proteinuria? Hello, I am a 17-year-old male. I have been experiencing proteinuria (+~++) for about a year. During this time, I have visited three major hospitals for diagnosis. I have undergone blood tests to assess kidney function and a 24-hour ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, I am a nephrologist who relies on "tests (blood and urine tests, X-rays)" and "machines (dialysis machines)" to make a living... This is purely a joke (any resemblance is coincidental), but it does highlight the concerns of nephrologists and patients wi...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Concerns About a Lymph Node Near My Neck: Should I Worry?
The "suspected lymph node" that I accidentally touched? Hello, Doctor: Here's the situation. The day before yesterday, while I was showering, I accidentally felt an unusual lump below my left ear, near the lower neck area. After looking it up online, I think it mig...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, if what you described is movable, soft in texture, and small, the chances of it being problematic or even malignant are low. Throughout a person's life, they will inevitably encounter lymph nodes; they can come and go. As long as there are minor infections in the body...[Read More] Concerns About a Lymph Node Near My Neck: Should I Worry?
Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Blood test Hello, doctor. I recently had blood tests done on January 23 and January 26, with white blood cell counts of 6200 and 8800, respectively. My white blood cell count has typically been around 6000. Why is there such a significant difference in the results over just two t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, it is possible for the total white blood cell count to fluctuate within a few days. This is because some white blood cells adhere to the blood vessel walls, and when the body experiences stress, a mild cold, or pain, these adhered white blood cells can detach and return to...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Can Diabetic Patients Donate Blood While on Medication?
Diabetes mellitus Can a person with diabetes who is on medication donate blood?
Dr. Zhang Guoji Reply:
According to the "Health Standards for Blood Donors" published by the Department of Health: Article 4: Blood donors who have any of the following conditions should postpone their donation: 5. Currently suffering from syphilis, active tuberculosis, diabetes, heart diseas...[Read More] Can Diabetic Patients Donate Blood While on Medication?
Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Juvenile Spondyloarthritis
Joint pain issues Hello, doctor. I just learned about this website today and looked into the content regarding juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. I feel that some aspects resonate with my experience, and I hope you can provide me with some guidance. When I was in the third year o...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if you are experiencing joint pain along with swelling in the affected joint, it indicates the presence of a rheumatic disease. Sciatica or bone spurs would not typically cause joint swelling and pain. I recommend that you visit a nearby rheumato...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Juvenile Spondyloarthritis
Post-Splenectomy Health Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Issues After Spleen Removal A family member had a car accident in their teenage years, resulting in a ruptured spleen that was surgically removed. Now at 31 years old, they have been experiencing increasingly poor complexion, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, and general weakness. Wh...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: The spleen has functions related to hematopoiesis and immunity. It is best to seek examination and treatment at a large hospital.[Read More] Post-Splenectomy Health Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rapid heartbeat? Hello, doctor. My usual blood pressure is 90 over 60, but recently it has dropped a bit to 80 over 55. When I exercise, I feel dizzy, and my face and hands turn pale. I often experience headaches at the top of my head. Recently, one night, my right leg started tw...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, Xiao Li: Your blood pressure is low, and you are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, pale complexion, and leg cramps. It is advisable to go to the hospital for a thorough examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Is It a Head or Stomach Issue? Understanding Your Symptoms
I'm not sure if it's a problem with my head or my stomach? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing dizziness, headaches, a heavy feeling in my head (as if I need to lean against something), and nausea. After seeing a doctor, it was determined that these symptom...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If the symptoms do not improve, it is recommended to seek medical attention again for further examination (such as an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy) to determine if there is a gastrointestinal issue. Thank you for your message![Read More] Is It a Head or Stomach Issue? Understanding Your Symptoms
Identifying Cold Symptoms: Treatment Options and Medication Guide
What type of cold is it? How should it be treated and what medications should be used? Hello doctor, I would like to ask: I have received the flu vaccine and I have rheumatoid arthritis. On the first day, I experienced a sore throat, discomfort, fever, headache, nasal discomfort,...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. The currently administered influenza vaccine includes three components: A-type influenza (H1N1, H3N2) and B-type influenza. The reference virus components for the vaccine are based on the recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO). 2. Since the ...[Read More] Identifying Cold Symptoms: Treatment Options and Medication Guide
Chronic Facial Redness and Heat: Understanding the Symptoms and Solutions
Severe facial redness and heat for several months? Hello Dr. Park, I apologize for the lengthy message, but I sincerely hope you can read through it. My mother is 49 years old. She began experiencing unexplained facial flushing and heat in May of last year (2011). Initially, th...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for facial redness, with more common causes including skin allergies, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, menopause in women, emotional changes, alcohol, medications, seasonings, and spicy foods. However, some less common causes may be overlooked...[Read More] Chronic Facial Redness and Heat: Understanding the Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Flu Symptoms and Recovery Tips
Cold-related issues Doctor, I recently caught a cold, and I've been experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, along with a fever reaching 38 degrees Celsius. I visited a nearby clinic, and the doctor said it was a "gastroenteritis." It's been two days, and sometimes...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Based on the symptoms you described, it seems to be a gastrointestinal flu. It is advisable to maintain a light diet and avoid fried and spicy foods. Start with the foods you most desire, but in small and comfortable portions. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Flu Symptoms and Recovery Tips