Understanding Jaundice, Scrub Typhus, and Splenomegaly: Causes and Treatments
Jaundice, scrub typhus, splenomegaly? I am from Kaohsiung and returned to Taiwan from Japan on November 23. After that, I visited Chengqing Lake in Kaohsiung, the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium in Pingtung, Chihpen in Taitung, Chulu Ranch, Pingtung, and Cijin. On ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Regarding diagnosis based on symptoms, I would like to introduce you to a website: the "Infectious Disease Differential Diagnosis Assistance System" from the Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan (http://140.112.124.104/index-3.asp?item=2)....[Read More] Understanding Jaundice, Scrub Typhus, and Splenomegaly: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Berodual: Uses, Side Effects, and Proper Administration for Asthma in Children
Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction The child is currently eight years old and has asthma, often experiencing persistent coughing. The doctor prescribed a medication called Berodual. I would like to ask what type of medication this is, whether it has strong side effects, and if ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Hello! Berotec is the English name for a short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist used for asthma. Common side effects of this type of medication include palpitations and tremors, although these are more pronounced with oral formulations. However, even with tremors, it should not a...[Read More] Understanding Berodual: Uses, Side Effects, and Proper Administration for Asthma in Children
Understanding Cough Side Effects from Diabetes and Hypertension Medications
Diabetes... Hypertension My father is taking medication for diabetes and has previously taken medication due to a bacterial infection from a prostate examination. Recently, he has been coughing frequently (he has quit smoking). A while ago, I read in the newspaper that there is a...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
A class of antihypertensive medications is known to commonly cause cough; these medications are angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Common examples include Capoten, Renitec, Zestril, Tritace, and Acertil.[Read More] Understanding Cough Side Effects from Diabetes and Hypertension Medications
Chronic Cough in Older Adults: Causes and Treatment Options
General Internal Medicine Hello, Dr. Tseng: I am a 60-year-old male with a long-standing cough issue. I have seen both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine, but there has been little effect. My cough is dry and very severe, especially before going to bed and often wa...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello Mr. Yang! After reviewing your complaints, your symptoms may resemble chronic cough. Generally, a cough that persists for more than two months can be diagnosed as such. In terms of differential diagnosis, there are several possibilities. First, we need to consider whether y...[Read More] Chronic Cough in Older Adults: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding the Causes of Metallic Taste and Associated Symptoms
Metallic taste In the past month, I have frequently experienced a strong metallic taste in my throat and the center of my mouth, which resembles a bloody taste. I am certain it is not due to gum bleeding, and there is no blood when I pick my nose. Each episode is accompanied by d...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the symptoms described in the article are not specific to any particular disease, making it difficult to determine a diagnosis based solely on symptoms. Since the internal medicine department has already examined the gastrointestinal tract and...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Metallic Taste and Associated Symptoms
Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Coccydynia (tailbone pain) Hello, two years ago I experienced wrist pain and consulted a doctor, suspecting rheumatoid arthritis (I live in Australia). I intermittently took medication and stopped, and one day it suddenly got better. Recently, I have been waking up in the morning...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Isolated wrist pain cannot be diagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is important to observe for symptoms such as swelling, pain, and heat in the joints (arthritis), particularly if multiple joints are involved symmetrically in both hands. If morning stiffness in the hand joi...[Read More] Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Possible Causes and Solutions
You're welcome! Hello Dr. Lin: I have been experiencing sudden episodes of shortness of breath, even when I am just sitting and not moving or running. My heart rate increases, but the doctors I have seen said it should not be asthma. Recently, I have been producing a lot of ...
Dr. Lin Jizhi Reply:
Sudden onset of rapid heartbeat and difficulty breathing in young individuals may be indicative of paroxysmal tachycardia or mitral valve prolapse. However, if accompanied by tinnitus, it is important to consider whether there is dysfunction of the Eustachian tube or bronchiectas...[Read More] Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Possible Causes and Solutions
Navigating Uncertainty: What to Do When Health Issues Arise?
I'm not sure what to do? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I am a resident of Keelung and also your patient. I just realized that you are one of the doctors in this group. Regarding my condition, I had a persistent cough for nearly eight months last year, underwent numerous tests, and lost...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Sarah Wang, Your concerns primarily involve weight loss and hoarseness, both of which have numerous potential diagnoses, varying in severity, and cannot be detailed here. What examinations have you already undergone? What were the results? These are crucial for differen...[Read More] Navigating Uncertainty: What to Do When Health Issues Arise?
Understanding Elevated Mercury Levels in Blood: Causes and Solutions
Heavy metals in the blood Recently, our company conducted a health examination, and my test report indicated that the mercury level in my blood exceeds the standard. However, there are no hazardous factors present in the work environment. Out of 50 individuals examined, over 30 s...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello Ms. Kuo; 1. The most famous case of mercury poisoning occurred in the 1950s in the Minamata region of Japan, where a chlor-alkali factory discharged methylmercury into the sea. This contaminant entered the food chain and subsequently affected thousands of people, leading ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Mercury Levels in Blood: Causes and Solutions
When Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medication Subside?
When do the side effects of tuberculosis medications subside? I was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis in mid-November 1990 after sputum culture results came back positive, while chest X-ray and sputum tests at that time showed no abnormalities. I have been on medication for 2...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply to the soldier: You are currently taking four medications for tuberculosis. The most significant side effects include hepatitis, jaundice, and hyperuricemia. If you experience any rash or symptoms of fatigue, it is advisable to stop the medication immediately and go to the ...[Read More] When Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medication Subside?
Understanding Chest Discomfort and Coughing: Occupational Health Insights
Could it be an occupational disease caused by long-term work in a plastic company? I often feel a tightness in my chest, frequently cough, and have thick saliva. However, an X-ray at the hospital showed everything is normal. What could be the reason for this? If it is simply a de...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Chuo: Working in a plastic factory, certain chemical components such as ethylene vapors can indeed cause allergic symptoms in the airways. X-rays typically do not show abnormal findings unless the condition is in its late stages. I recommend that you undergo a comprehen...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort and Coughing: Occupational Health Insights
Understanding Evening Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns
Fever The family member has been bedridden for two months due to a urinary tract infection and was recently hospitalized. They have been experiencing fever every evening, reaching a maximum of about 38.2 degrees Celsius, while being normal during the day. There is also a slight c...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
In response to PTU: Both of the above reasons are possible. A chest X-ray and urine tests, including culture, must be performed to confirm the diagnosis. It is recommended to seek medical examination and treatment at the hospital as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Evening Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns
Managing Tuberculosis: Nutrition, Treatment, and Family Safety Tips
Tuberculosis (TB) Hello Doctor, My brother has recently been diagnosed with tuberculosis. His physical condition is poor, he is malnourished, and his immune function is not very good. The medications used to treat tuberculosis have hepatotoxic effects. I would like to know if su...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Jenny: 1. Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis should increase their protein intake (fish, meat, eggs, and dairy are all good options). Supplementing with vitamins can also be beneficial. It is important to avoid alcohol and fried foods, and to regularly monitor liver funct...[Read More] Managing Tuberculosis: Nutrition, Treatment, and Family Safety Tips
Understanding Asthma: Managing Symptoms and Preventing COPD in Adults
Asthma is a chronic Hello, I had asthma from ages 10 to 16, during which I always experienced wheezing during attacks. After moving away for school and work, I no longer had wheezing episodes, but I would experience chest tightness and coughing for a few hours to a few days after...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Ms. Gina: Chest tightness or wheezing after a cold does not necessarily indicate asthma. There is a condition known as post-viral wheezing syndrome, which can mimic asthma and often persists for several weeks following a viral respiratory infection. A definitive diagnosis r...[Read More] Understanding Asthma: Managing Symptoms and Preventing COPD in Adults
Persistent Chest Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Chest tightness with a strong sensation of obstruction? Hello Dr. Kuo, I have been experiencing long-term discomfort that began after I underwent gynecological surgery in March 1998, during which I had anesthesia and intubation. Following the surgery, I coughed up blood for sev...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Miss Green: Based on your description, it seems that you have been troubled for quite a long time. You may be a patient who becomes anxious and has difficulty sleeping over minor issues (Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome). If your lung function indicates that you truly have br...[Read More] Persistent Chest Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Pulmonary Lymph Node Calcification and Coughing Concerns
Is there a problem with the lungs? Hello, doctor. 1. Last year, I was hospitalized for observation due to food poisoning. During my hospital stay, the hospital conducted a physical examination. Shortly after my discharge, I received a notification from the hospital stating that...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Alan: The calcification of the hilar lymph nodes is often caused by infections, with the most common in Taiwan being tuberculosis, silicosis, sarcoidosis, or a history of pneumonia in childhood. Typically, this is not a major concern, except for sarcoidosis and tubercul...[Read More] Understanding Pulmonary Lymph Node Calcification and Coughing Concerns
Understanding Post-Surgical Respiratory Issues: Coughing, Blood, and Asthma
Tracheal issues Hello, doctor. I have a few questions. 1. After my gynecological surgery, I experienced persistent itching in my right bronchus, frequent coughing with blood, and a sore throat. A few days later, I coughed up a dark blood clot from my nasopharynx. My voice has als...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Mei: It is recommended that you follow up with a pulmonology clinic for a chest X-ray examination. If there are any abnormal shadows, a bronchoscopy will need to be arranged.[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgical Respiratory Issues: Coughing, Blood, and Asthma
Protecting Your Child from Pigeon Droppings: Risks and Prevention
Pigeon droppings Pigeons frequently perch on the windowsill of my home, leaving droppings behind. I've heard that pigeon droppings can contain Cryptococcus, which can cause meningitis. I am very concerned about the risk of infection for my ten-month-old infant. What are the ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: Pulmonary cryptococcosis is similar to typical pneumonia, presenting with symptoms such as fever and cough. Chest X-rays may show abnormal shadows, and antigen testing can be performed through blood samples for confirmation. Inhaling pigeon droppings does not nec...[Read More] Protecting Your Child from Pigeon Droppings: Risks and Prevention
Understanding Cold Symptoms: When to See a Doctor for Treatment
Common cold Initially, it starts with a cold, followed by phlegm that is sticky, accompanied by wheezing, and then a cough develops. What type of condition does this belong to, and which specialty should I consult?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Mr. Shen: A cold can trigger complications such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia, so please schedule an appointment with the pulmonology clinic for treatment.[Read More] Understanding Cold Symptoms: When to See a Doctor for Treatment
Understanding the Symptoms of Veterans' Disease: A Guide for Patients
Symptoms of Veterans' Disease? Hello Dr. Ke: What are the symptoms of Veterans' Syndrome (also known as Gulf War Syndrome) during its onset? Thank you!
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Lily: The symptoms are similar to those of general pneumonia, such as fever, cough, and chest pain. In severe cases, there may be difficulty breathing, confusion, and gastrointestinal discomfort.[Read More] Understanding the Symptoms of Veterans' Disease: A Guide for Patients