Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes of Mucus, Blood, and Inflammation
Throat or nasal area? Hello Doctor, when I woke up this morning and brushed my teeth, I initially felt something like phlegm on my tongue, but it wasn't thick; it felt more like saliva because my throat felt a bit clogged. There was a slight yellowish tint, and after using m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if the blood is coming from the lungs, it is usually a shade of iron-gray or rust color. Based on your description, if it is primarily bright red or dark red, it is more likely not originating from the lungs but rather from the mouth or throat. This could be due to issues ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes of Mucus, Blood, and Inflammation
Can Growth Hormone Therapy Help Increase Height in Young Adults?
Can physicians use growth hormone for treatment? At 21 years old and 148 cm tall, there are limited options for increasing height, as most individuals reach their maximum height by the end of puberty. However, here are some potential approaches: 1. **Consult an Endocrinologist**...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Based on your situation, it may be necessary to consult a specialist to determine if you are a suitable candidate for growth hormone therapy.[Read More] Can Growth Hormone Therapy Help Increase Height in Young Adults?
Understanding Thyroid Medication Effects on Weight Fluctuations
Thyroid-related weight issues? Hello doctor, I have been taking medication for my thyroid, and my levels have been fluctuating between 2 and 3. In June, my doctor changed my dosage from two pills to one pill. During my follow-up in August, my levels increased, and now I'm ta...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Weight changes vary from person to person. To reduce weight gain, it is advisable to limit the intake of carbohydrates in the diet.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Medication Effects on Weight Fluctuations
Understanding Fatty Liver Disease: Risks of Cell Death and Fibrosis Explained
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Doctor, I later recalled that during the ultrasound examination, the doctor seemed to quietly mention that some cells were dead. Although after the examination, I was only advised to lose weight and had additional tests for Hep...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, ultrasound cannot determine whether cells are alive or dead. What your doctor observed is likely the phenomenon of fibrosis. Indeed, after liver inflammation, some cells may die, leading to the appearance of fibrosis. When fibrosis becomes severe, it progresses to cirrhosi...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver Disease: Risks of Cell Death and Fibrosis Explained
Understanding Kidney Cysts and Fatty Liver: Concerns and Dietary Solutions
Kidney and fatty liver issues? Hello Doctor, yesterday I had an abdominal ultrasound (conducted by Dr. Wang Wenming at Kaohsiung Medical University). Dr. Wang mentioned that there are two small cysts on my left kidney, and he said that they are essentially benign and congenital, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the cyst is indeed benign and does not require special treatment. 1. Fatty liver refers to the accumulation of fat in the liver due to diet, lifestyle habits, or individual predisposition. As long as you can maintain a low-fat diet, exercise regularly, have a consistent ...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Cysts and Fatty Liver: Concerns and Dietary Solutions
Managing High Cholesterol: Diet, Supplements, and Testing Tips
Cholesterol reduction issues? Hello, Doctor. I found out I have high cholesterol after my health check-up at the end of July. My total cholesterol is 234 mg/dL, HDL (good cholesterol) is 51 mg/dL, and LDL (bad cholesterol) is 172 mg/dL. It is not familial hypercholesterolemia. I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Red yeast rice and similar nutritional supplements can partially help improve blood lipid levels, but their effects are not as exaggerated as advertised. It is recommended to focus on exercise, maintain a regular routine, and avoid a diet primarily consisting of fried...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Diet, Supplements, and Testing Tips
Managing Esophageal Discomfort: Medication and Dietary Guidance
Please feel free to ask your question? Thank you, doctor, for your response. I visited the clinic this morning, and the doctor has not recommended an endoscopy yet. He mentioned that there is a high probability that the medication has caused irritation to my esophagus and advised...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the delay in response due to a system malfunction. Regarding medications, it is advisable to avoid drugs that can irritate the stomach, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other medications should be fine to use alongside Gaviscon. In te...[Read More] Managing Esophageal Discomfort: Medication and Dietary Guidance
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Mild discomfort in the chest? Hello, doctor. About two days ago, I took anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics at the clinic due to a cold. However, the next day, I started feeling a slight, vague pain in the middle of my chest, which is particularly noticeable around meal ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the esophagus is quite long, extending from the throat to the chest. Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a gastric ulcer. However, the exact cause can only be determined through an endoscopy. As for ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and Medication Effects
Blood report Hello Dr. Hong, about a month ago I had a blood test at the hospital. The results showed total cholesterol at 210, LDL cholesterol at 144, blood glucose at 105, hemoglobin A1c at 5.3, and potassium at 5.3. I checked the standard values online and found that they are ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, although your blood sugar is slightly elevated, your glycated hemoglobin is normal, so there should be no issue with diabetes. Your potassium level is slightly high, but if your kidney function is normal, it may be due to constipation or decreased excretion, which usually ...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and Medication Effects
Understanding Chronic Urticaria: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Urticaria issues? About a month ago, I started experiencing unexplained itching all over my body (my diet and daily routine have not changed). If I scratch, it becomes red but does not develop into hives. I have since seen two different doctors who diagnosed me with mild urticari...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Urticaria needs to be visually assessed, so if you suspect it is urticaria, it would be helpful to take a photo of the appearance during an outbreak for the physician's evaluation. Additionally, even with medication, some cases of urticaria...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Urticaria: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Understanding Low-Grade Fever, Chills, Fatigue, and Headache Symptoms
Low-grade fever, chills, weakness, headache? Hello, I have been experiencing a low-grade fever for three to four days (body temperature around 37.3-37.5°C). I also have a headache, fatigue, and slight chills. I took a home rapid test for COVID-19 yesterday, which came back negati...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, other viral infections, urinary tract infections, irregular lifestyle, high stress, and menstrual periods can all contribute to the symptoms mentioned above. It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule, exercise, and have a balanced diet, as well as to drink plenty of...[Read More] Understanding Low-Grade Fever, Chills, Fatigue, and Headache Symptoms
Understanding Stiff and Swollen Finger Joints: Causes and Solutions
Stiffness and swelling in the finger joints? Hello Doctor: Last year in late autumn, I noticed stiffness in my finger joints upon waking up, but it was mild, so I didn't pay much attention to it. Recently, however, the frequency has increased, and almost every day my fingers...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, experiencing stiffness in the finger joints upon waking, pain in the index finger, swelling in the fingers, positive urine occult blood test, and hair loss should not be ignored, but there is no need to panic. Please seek medical evaluation, as there are many potential cau...[Read More] Understanding Stiff and Swollen Finger Joints: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Foul Odor from the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Help
The belly button often has an unpleasant odor? Hello Doctor, my BMI is normal, I have no history of diabetes or any other chronic diseases. My navel is usually quite clean (not excessively cleaned) and I maintain a normal diet with a regular exercise routine. However, for the pas...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
There may be an infection; it is advisable to seek treatment from a clinic or a surgeon as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Foul Odor from the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Elevated creatinine levels? Hello Doctor: I had a blood test on July 6, and my creatinine level was 1.2. Prior to the blood draw, I was experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, gastroesophageal reflux, and irregular bowel movements. I had been taking medicati...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
A single creatinine report does not indicate chronic kidney dysfunction; it is recommended to drink more water and maintain a normal routine for a period of time before retesting. It is advisable to avoid any illnesses or discomfort before the test, as these factors may interfere...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Can STDs Be Transmitted Through Contaminated Drinks?
Questions about the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? I would like to ask the doctor: If someone intentionally adds bodily fluids containing sexually transmitted infections to a drink, would an unsuspecting person who consumes it become infected with HIV, sy...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the three sexually transmitted infections you mentioned cannot be transmitted through diet, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can STDs Be Transmitted Through Contaminated Drinks?
Understanding Foul Odor from the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Help
The belly button often has a foul odor? Hello Doctor, my BMI is normal, I have no history of diabetes or any other chronic diseases. My navel is usually quite clean (not overly cleaned), and I maintain a normal diet with a regular exercise routine. However, for the past month, I ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
There may be an infection; it is advisable to seek treatment from a clinic or a surgeon as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Foul Odor from the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Foul Odor from the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Help
The belly button often has an unpleasant odor? Hello Doctor, my BMI is normal, I have no history of diabetes or any other chronic diseases. My navel is usually quite clean (not excessively cleaned) and I maintain a normal diet with a regular exercise routine. However, for the pas...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
There may be an infection; it is advisable to seek treatment from a clinic or a surgeon as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Foul Odor from the Belly Button: Causes and When to Seek Help
Struggling with Hypothyroidism: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions
Hypothyroidism Treatment Issues Hello Doctor, I am a patient with hypothyroidism. I have been undergoing treatment for about three years and have been taking thyroid hormone, but there has been little improvement in my lab values or physical condition. Dietary changes and exercis...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, patients with hypothyroidism who regularly take their medication to keep thyroid hormone levels within the normal range are less likely to experience symptoms of hypothyroidism. Based on your description, it is recommended to first consult with an endoc...[Read More] Struggling with Hypothyroidism: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions
Managing VPC: Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions and Anxiety
Ventricular Premature Contractions (VPC) Hello Dr. Hong, thank you for your previous response. You are correct that my VPC (ventricular premature contractions) were discovered through a 24-hour Holter monitor. I have paid out of pocket for this test five times, with occurrences r...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, VPC (ventricular premature contractions) is currently considered a "benign" arrhythmia, meaning it does not pose a life-threatening risk and is unlikely to have long-term adverse effects. However, it may still cause symptoms such as palpitations during episodes. ...[Read More] Managing VPC: Understanding Ventricular Premature Contractions and Anxiety
Dietary Recommendations for Managing Elevated Creatinine and Low Kidney Function After Liver Transplant
Diet for Liver Disease (Elevated Creatinine + Low Glomerular Filtration Rate) After liver transplantation, I have been attending regular follow-up appointments. Each time, my lab results show low red blood cell count (2.4), low hemoglobin (11), elevated creatinine (1.3), and low ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your description, a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 43 is indeed low; however, we should not focus on a single data point but rather on the trend. It is important to determine whether 43 is lower than previous values or if it remains stable within a range (for ex...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Managing Elevated Creatinine and Low Kidney Function After Liver Transplant