Understanding Chronic Loose Stools: IBS and Gastrointestinal Concerns
I have been experiencing issues with frequent loose stools? Hello, doctor. I started experiencing diarrhea and almost daily soft stools (with a slight shape, small lumps) at the beginning of the year. Later, during a health check, I had a positive fecal occult blood test. Followi...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It may be an issue related to irritable bowel syndrome. Since the colonoscopy results are normal, you might consider starting medication to see if your symptoms improve. If you frequently experience acid reflux, it would also be advisable to undergo an upper endoscopy. Tha...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Loose Stools: IBS and Gastrointestinal Concerns
Understanding Finger Hemorrhage: Causes and Treatment Options
Subungual hematoma I usually play rhythm games on my phone (the type that requires tapping the screen), and I've recently noticed that my fingers hurt when I tap the screen. I found a black line inside my fingertip. Will that disappear on its own after some time?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you mentioned may be due to bruising or some dirt, and it might require a visual examination for proper assessment. If the discomfort persists, I recommend considering a visit to a dermatologist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Finger Hemorrhage: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Brain Fog: Concerns and Solutions for Patients
Brain fog issue? Hello Doctor: I originally had poor memory and difficulty concentrating due to a mental illness, similar to brain fog, which made me hesitant to dine in restaurants for fear of exacerbating my condition. This has been somewhat distressing. I am concerned about th...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to get vaccinated, as this can lead to milder symptoms in case of infection and a lower risk of complications. Regarding brain fog, it mostly occurs in older adults, so the likelihood at your age is low. Even if it does happen, recovery is gradual and doe...[Read More] Understanding Brain Fog: Concerns and Solutions for Patients
Understanding Lip Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Lip issues Hello, I would like to ask about suddenly feeling a slight pain in my lips at night. When I looked, they seemed a bit red. Is this normal? I asked my sister, and she said it might be because I accidentally bit them, and that applying oral ointment would be fine. Howeve...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the most common cause of red and painful lips is indeed accidentally biting them. Aside from that, the most frequent issue is viral infections, such as herpes virus infections. Most cases will resolve on their own, so there is no need to worry. As for the very few cases th...[Read More] Understanding Lip Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Fasting blood glucose levels are elevated? On October 14, 2021, I went to the emergency room due to discomfort from vaccine side effects, around 8 PM after dinner, feeling very anxious (due to chest pain). The emergency department recorded a blood glucose level of 171. A few days...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fasting blood glucose greater than 100 mg/dL or hemoglobin A1c greater than 5.6% indicates prediabetes. Low-dose mirtazapine is not commonly associated with hyperglycemia. Maintaining proper dietary control and lifestyle adjustments is key. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Health Tips for a 34-Year-Old
The health check report shows a creatinine level of 1.31? Dear Doctor, I am 34 years old. My health check report from October 4, 2022, shows a BMI of 22.4, a waist circumference of 77 cm, a creatinine level of 1.31, and a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 66.57. There is no pro...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello HEBE: "Creatinine 1.31, Glomerular Filtration Rate 66.57." You can follow up at the nephrology outpatient clinic. Additionally, regarding "daily diet/lifestyle," it is recommended to measure your blood pressure daily, avoid excessive salt intake, limit f...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Health Tips for a 34-Year-Old
Understanding Clear Urine: When to Seek Medical Advice
Urinary issues Hello Doctor: I recently started weight training for the past week and have been consuming weight gain protein powder, along with increasing my water intake to about 2500 ml per day. In the last couple of days, I've noticed that my urine has become almost clea...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Lin, if you notice that your urine sometimes has slight bubbles, you can follow up at the nephrology clinic. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Clear Urine: When to Seek Medical Advice
Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Is it okay for my grandfather with diabetes to sleep until he wakes up naturally, even if that means sleeping until noon or later? Hello Dr. Lee, my grandfather is 80 years old and has been a long-term diabetes patient (with a 40-year history). Two years ago, he had a stroke that...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Regarding sleep issues in the elderly and cerebral circulation problems, it is advisable to consult a neurologist. However, if there is a tendency to wake up late, one should be aware of the possibility of hypoglycemia during sleep. If waking up around noon, it may be necessary t...[Read More] Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Can Physical Therapy Help Alleviate Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis be alleviated through rehabilitation? Hello, Doctor. I am a 20-year-old male patient with ankylosing spondylitis. My main issue is pain in my lower back (not reaching the buttocks). Currently, I am taking Celebrex and exercising more to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my answers: 1) Can using a heating pad at home on my lower back help alleviate the remaining pain? Would a doctor recommend this? --> Yes, it can be beneficial. 2) Is it okay to occasionally go to a rehabilitation department for gen...[Read More] Can Physical Therapy Help Alleviate Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol issues Recently, blood tests showed triglycerides at 67 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol at 133 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol at 150 mg/dL, and total cholesterol at 273 mg/dL. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol is 2.1...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Some studies have shown that excessively high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may be detrimental to health. Elevated HDL cholesterol levels can actually increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, other research has found that having to...[Read More] Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Understanding Thrombocytopenia and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia: Treatment Options Explained
Thrombocytopenia and acquired hemolytic anemia? Hello Dr. Gao: In 2019, I discovered many small bruises on my body. After an examination at a clinic, it was found that my platelet count was only 9,000. I was urgently sent to a large hospital's emergency department, and after...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Splenectomy is indeed one of the treatment options for refractory thrombocytopenia. You may want to consult a second physician to re-evaluate any underlying possible autoimmune diseases. If it is confirmed to be immune thrombocytopenia, in addi...[Read More] Understanding Thrombocytopenia and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia: Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire whether my symptoms could be diagnosed as arthritis. At the end of October: I felt an unusual sensation when bending my hands. At the beginning of November: I experienced an unusual sensation in my big toe, and my knees h...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe further monitoring is appropriate. Although the RF value is abnormal, it is not significantly elevated, and with normal CCP levels, I think tracking is sufficient. If ANA, CRP, and ESR are also normal, the likelihood of severe rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Abnormal rheumatoid factor? Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and my RF factor was abnormally high. I am currently under follow-up care (all other tests are normal and there is no inflammation), and I do not have symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain in my fing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Can I undergo aesthetic medical treatments normally? (such as hyaluronic acid injections or radiofrequency therapy.) --> I believe it is fine. 2. Can I practice yoga and engage in exercises that require strengt...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Insights on Bruises and Blackheads
Wound management questions? There is a small area on my lower leg just below the knee that was originally a grayish color, approximately 2 cm in size, likely caused by long-term friction from wearing pants. One day, I felt a foreign body sensation, and when I squeezed it, a black...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be a larger folliculitis, commonly referred to as "dingzi" in Taiwanese. This type of folliculitis does indeed heal very slowly. However, if there is a bacterial infection involved, it may require some debridement and the us...[Read More] Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Insights on Bruises and Blackheads
Understanding White Spots on the Penis: When to Worry and What to Know
Genital issues, may I ask? Hello Doctor, about a year ago I visited a urologist because I noticed a small white spot next to the urethral opening while showering. It is flat and not raised, but it is noticeable at times. Although I have not had sexual intercourse, I do engage in ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image you provided, it appears that the glandular area is indeed a normal physiological structure. It is recommended to simply monitor it unless there is an enlargement or the appearance of any discharge, in which case you should seek consultation at a urology...[Read More] Understanding White Spots on the Penis: When to Worry and What to Know
Understanding Cellulitis Treatment: Addressing Ongoing Pain and Swelling
Questions about the treatment of cellulitis? Hello Doctor: My mother experienced redness, swelling, and pain in her foot dorsum at night in late November, accompanied by fever. Therefore, she went to the emergency department for evaluation. Although there were no wounds, the doct...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in patients with compromised immunity or poor blood circulation, cellulitis can indeed be difficult to resolve. It is usually necessary to confirm whether there is pus formation or bone infection. Based on your description, a CT scan has already been performed, which shoul...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis Treatment: Addressing Ongoing Pain and Swelling
Is the Effect of Celecoxib on ESR Less Noticeable Than on CRP?
Is the effect of Xeljanz on lowering ESR less pronounced? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been diagnosed for 3 years. For the past year, I have been undergoing treatment with Celecoxib. Although my buttock pain symptoms have significantly improve...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) can be influenced by many factors aside from inflammation, so it is primarily recommended to refer to CRP (C-reactive protein) levels. You can try substituting different anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications. The results from the WBC...[Read More] Is the Effect of Celecoxib on ESR Less Noticeable Than on CRP?
Risk of HIV Infection from Sputum Splash in Eyewear: What You Need to Know
HIV infection Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about the risk of infection if a patient with HIV accidentally splashes sputum into my eyes while assisting with sputum suction. I usually wear prescription glasses, and today while helping the patient, I felt that some sputum m...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's review the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding HIV transmission routes: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infe...[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Sputum Splash in Eyewear: What You Need to Know
Is It Normal for PEP Packaging to Be Tampered With at the Hospital?
The PEP obtained from the hospital has a seal on the outer box, but the internal packaging has been opened? Hello, doctor. I recently registered at a local hospital and, due to concerns about risks, opted for a self-paid treatment. The outer box of the medication had a seal and a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Gilead's antiviral medication is currently the first-line treatment for the three-in-one antiviral regimen in the country. It has good efficacy, with mild side effects, and patients generally respond well. 2. Sometimes, patients may not pick up a full bottle of medicatio...[Read More] Is It Normal for PEP Packaging to Be Tampered With at the Hospital?
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Pain: Do NSAIDs and Exercise Always Help?
Can back pain from ankylosing spondylitis be alleviated by taking NSAIDs? Hello Doctor, my son is 19 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for three years. He has undergone relevant blood tests and MRI scans, and the rheumatologist confirmed the diagnosis. ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
For individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experiencing back pain, simply taking NSAIDs along with appropriate exercise may not completely alleviate the pain. It is important to conduct a differential diagnosis to rule out other possibilities. If it is confirmed that the pain is...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Pain: Do NSAIDs and Exercise Always Help?